Minnesota Pre-Law Scholars (MPLS) Program

Program Overview and Eligibility

Minnesota Pre-Law Scholars (MPLS) is a program that offers a select number of students a free LSAT prep class each summer at the University of Minnesota Law School. Admission is highly selective and based on a holistic review of the MPLS application material.

The program is open to current students and recent graduates from any undergraduate institution as well as nontraditional applicants. Those from groups historically underrepresented in law school, or whose life experiences will bring a unique or fresh perspective to campus are especially encouraged to apply. Priority consideration will be given to students applying for the next cycle of law school applications.

Students will learn about law school admissions preparation from Minnesota Law School staff. The remaining portion of class will be dedicated to LSAT preparation and practice exams.

The application for summer 2025 has now closed. The summer 2026 application will open in late January 2026.

Expand all

+Class Structure

Classes are held virtually three times a week in the evenings for 11 weeks in the summer. Two classes a week consist of LSAT instruction for 2.5 hours. One class a week consists of other law school preparation and typically includes a presentation from Minnesota Law career center staff, a panel discussion with current law students and alumni, a visit to a local law firm, and the opportunity to meet with admissions counselors.

Since the summer of 2020 MPLS has been held virtually. Optional in person activities may be offered.

+Cost

+Attendance & Study Time

+Program Requirements & Timeline

Successful completion is defined as being present on the first day of class, missing no more than 3 sessions (class or practice exam), making up a practice exam within one week of the original date, arriving to all classes on time, and reporting all six practice LSAT scores.

The tentative schedule for 2025 is as follows

January 16, 2025 – MPLS application available
March 16, 2025 – MPLS applications due at midnight
week of April 7, 2025 – Decisions will be emailed to all applicants
One week after acceptance emails – student commitment response returned
Week of May 5 – Orientation meeting
June 2, 2025 – First day of class
August 17, 2025 – Last test completed by midnight

+Application

Applications have closed for summer 2025.

Applications are designed to provide additional information on a candidate's maturity, judgment, communication, analytical skills and motivation to pursue a legal education. The Admissions Committee will complete a holistic assessment of all application materials. A completed application includes the application form, unofficial undergraduate transcript(s), and statement of interest. Applicants may also submit an optional ACT or SAT score in the application. Letters of recommendation are optional as well. No more than two letters can be submitted to [email protected].

Competitive applicants have a 3.0 GPA or higher, are applying to law school in the upcoming cycle, and show a demonstrated need for the program's offerings.