August 29, 2025

ASU Law to launch test-optional pathway for JD applicants in 2026

Beginning with the application for fall 2026, the Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law at Arizona State University will launch a test-optional pathway for JD applicants, following a five-year American Bar Association Standard 503 Variance approval granted to the college.

 

The move reflects ASU Law’s continued efforts to broaden access to legal education while reducing barriers for potential students.

 

“Our test-optional pathway recognizes that the LSAT is just one measure of a student’s ability to succeed in law school and beyond,” said Amy Best, assistant dean of admissions and financial aid at ASU Law. “We want to welcome talented applicants whose experiences and potential may not be fully captured by a standardized test.”

 

ASU Law currently operates the ASU Achievement program, which admits a percentage of undergraduates from ASU who meet specific qualifications. Unlike programs with limited eligibility, ASU’s new test-optional pathway is open to all applicants. Those who choose the option are not expected to later submit test scores.

 

This approach supports ASU’s mission to make legal education more innovative and accessible by reducing the financial and psychological barriers of standardized testing, which can discourage strong candidates from applying.

 

“By removing these barriers, we are creating new opportunities for future lawyers who may have thought law school was out of reach,” Best said.

Written by Kourtney Kelley