Cornell University 3+3 Program

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Read how the time Joseph “Paul” Janes ’24, Frederick Jackson ’24, and Peter McGriff ’24 spent at Hobart and William Smith influenced their decisions to attend Cornell Law School. 

two schools. one program.

Build an undergraduate foundation at HWS and then transition to Cornell Law School for a law degree through the 3+3 LEAP. You’ll spend your first three years at HWS, completing a major of your choosing, before spending the next three years at Cornell. You’ll graduate with both an undergraduate degree from HWS and a law degree from Cornell, ready to follow your legal pursuits, wherever they may be.


More Information

Requirements

If you’re thinking about enrolling through this program, consider doing so by the second semester of your sophomore year. All majors are eligible but you will need to have completed all credits by the end of your junior year. Additionally, working with Brandi Ferrara, Assistant Vice President, Career Services, and an advisor for the program, you’ll look to secure an internship to provide you with legal experience prior to leaving HWS.

 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

How does the Cornell Law 3+3 program work?
Students spend three years at Hobart and William Smith before beginning their J.D. at Cornell Law School. The first year of law school also fulfills the student’s final undergraduate requirements, allowing participants to earn both an HWS bachelor’s degree and a Cornell J.D. in six years rather than the traditional seven.
Who is eligible for the program?
HWS students from any major may pursue the 3+3 pathway. Before beginning at Cornell Law, students must complete their major and other required HWS coursework and meet Cornell Law School’s academic and admissions requirements.
What academic requirements do I need to meet?
Applicants must have completed between 108 and 119 undergraduate credits before beginning law school and must have completed all requirements for their HWS major. Students must also rank in the top 10% of their class or have a cumulative GPA of at least 3.5 after six semesters of undergraduate study.
Do HWS students need to take the LSAT?
HWS applicants must submit either an LSAT or GRE score as part of their application to Cornell Law School.
When do I apply to Cornell Law School?
Students apply during their junior year at HWS. Cornell Law’s J.D. application opens Sept. 1. Cornell recommends applying around Jan. 15 when possible, with a priority deadline of March 1 and a final application deadline of July 1.
What application materials are required?
Applicants submit Cornell Law School’s regular J.D. application along with undergraduate transcripts, a personal statement, resume, LSAT or GRE scores and two letters of recommendation. Junior-year spring grades must also be submitted before admission is finalized.
When should I start planning for the 3+3 pathway?
Students interested in the program should begin planning early, ideally by the second semester of sophomore year. Early advising can help students map out their major and other HWS requirements, prepare for the LSAT or GRE and ensure they will have the credits needed to transition to Cornell after junior year.
What are the advantages of the 3+3 pathway?
The program allows students to combine the breadth of an HWS liberal arts education with a Cornell Law degree while completing both degrees in six years. Students save a year of study and begin their legal education and career sooner.