Georgetown Law - Frequently Asked Questions (GLS)

Can I apply for the GLS Program at a later date- for example, during my first year of law school?

I am applying to the JD Early Admission program, should I submit my GLS application at the same time?

No. Applications to the GLS Program must be submitted prior to matriculation and should be submitted by the due date on the application.

Not necessarily. We will not review your GLS application until AFTER you have been admitted to the JD program. We suggest that your completed application be submitted by March 1.

My language skills are a little rusty, but I'm taking a refresher course/studying abroad this Fall to improve them. Can I submit my language evaluation separate from the GLS application?

Yes, you can submit your language evaluation separate from your GLS application. However, we will not review your GLS application until all materials have been received.

Will I increase my chances of being admitted to the JD program if I indicate that I am also applying to the GLS?

No. The decision to admit a student to the JD program is wholly independent of the GLS application process. We will not review your GLS application until AFTER you have been admitted to the JD program.

Will I increase my chances of being admitted to the GLS the earlier I submit my GLS materials?

Applying before the March 1 deadline does not increase your chances. However, you do want to apply by that deadline. Late applications will be considered, but offers will only be made on a space-available basis.

I am applying to the JD evening division/transfer program. Am I still eligible for the GLS?

Regrettably, no. We are only accepting GLS applications from applicants who have been admitted to the JD full-time program as entering 1Ls. Therefore, evening and transfer students are not eligible.

The Application Materials

Should I write my JD application's personal statement to reflect my interest in the GLS?

The decision to admit a student to the JD program is wholly independent of the GLS application process, therefore, we do not review any part of your JD application.

The Language Evaluation

In what language should I be evaluated?

Native English speakers must submit an evaluation form for a modern, spoken foreign language.

Non-native English speakers who graduated from an English-speaking college or university should submit an evaluation form for their native language or another modern, spoken foreign language (NOT English).

Non-native English speakers who graduated from a non-English-speaking college or university do not need to sumit a language evaluation form, but should include a written statement indicating their native language and the non-English speaking college or university.

If you are multi-lingual, you should be evaluated in the non-native language in which you are the most proficient. You should attach a resume with a "Language" section to your application to highlight any additional language skills.

Who should evaluate my skills?

Applicants should be evaluated by a professor, language instructor, or, in rare cases in which language professionals are not available, a native speaker. However, family members, co-workers, and personal friends may not evaluate an applicant's language ability.

I no longer live near my university, where else can I get my language evaluation completed?

You can get an evaluation from any accredited institution or instructor, i.e. a language institute, university or school in your present location. With prior approval, an evaluation can be done by a native speaker of that language.

Can I submit my language certification from the School of Foreign Service/ US Peace Corps, in lieu of obtaining an evaluation?

Yes, if the certification is less than 3 years old.