By CLAS Academic Advising
The start of a new semester is the perfect time to re-evaluate your study habits, develop new habits, and set new academic goals.
Developing a consistent study routine now will be more beneficial than cramming prior to exams at midterms and finals. As a 1L, most course grades will only be based on your final exam, and you will need to develop the study skills to prepare and retain information all semester.
Think about ways you can deepen your reading skills; for example, start reading more complex material outside of your major to develop your critical thinking skills and build reading stamina.
Focus on developing core academic skills recommended by the American Bar Association: critical thinking, writing, analytical skills, research and information literacy, and time management. Your academic advisor can assist you in finding courses to develop these skills.
Utilize free resources – you can find links to all academic help centers at Tutor Iowa.
Pre-law events
Pre-Law Personal Statement Workshop
Tuesday, April 14 at 3pm in C210 PC
For pre-law students applying for law school in the fall for admission in 2026, a workshop on writing personal statements for law school applications.
Pre-Law Credential Assembly Workshop
Wednesday, April 29 at 3pm in C210 PC
For pre-law students applying to law school fall 2026, a workshop on how to use the LSAC credit assembly service.
Law School Fair
Monday, Sept. 21, 2026
Speak with admissions representatives from 60+ schools, IMU Main Lounge, Free and open to the public
Upcoming LSAT test dates
April 9-11 2026
June 3-6 2026
Pre-law student orgs
Phi Alpha Delta (PAD): https://www.instagram.com/uiowa_pad/
Black Pre-Law Association: https://www.instagram.com/uiowabpla/
Pre-Law Association of Women (PAW): https://www.instagram.com/pawiowa/
Pre-Law Pathways: https://www.instagram.com/plp_iowa/
Check out pre-law on the academic advising website to access tools, timelines, and resources designed to help students thrive.
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to attend all University of Iowa sponsored events. If you are a person with a disability who requires an accommodation in order to participate in any of these events, please call 319-353-5700.
Questions? Contact your academic advisor to learn more.