Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How do I apply and when can I start?
2. Where can I take a prep class for the LSAT?
3. When can I take a tour?
4. When can I start and what time are the classes?
5. How many credits can I take at Grand Rapids?
6. Can I take evening and weekend classes?
7. What time are classes held?
8. How many credits can I take each semester?
9. Can I take additional credits in Lansing and Auburn Hills while taking credits at Grand Rapids?
10. Who will teach the classes at the Grand Rapids Campus?
11. Can I observe a law class in session?
12. What about library services?
13. What about student services?
14. Is campus housing available?
15. What other advantages are there to taking classes at Grand Rapids?
16. How do I get to the Grand Rapids campus and where can I park?
17. What facilities are available?
How do I apply and when can I start?
First, you need to take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) and register with the Credential Assembly Service (CAS). Transcripts from all of the schools that you previously attended must be sent to CAS for the transcript evaluation. Cooley uses the cumulative undergraduate GPA as evaluated by CAS in calculating your Admission Index (UGPA x 15 + highest LSAT score).
More information on Cooley's Admission Formula >
Next, you need to submit an application to Cooley.
Use the Cooley online application or send a paper application (PDF) to:
Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Attn.: Admissions Office
300 South Capitol Avenue
PO Box 13038
Lansing, Michigan 48901
You can also fax an application to: (517) 334-5718.
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Where can I take a prep class for the LSAT?
There are many ways to prepare for the LSAT, including purchasing one of the numerous preparation books that are available in bookstores or the books of prior LSAT exams that can be purchased online at www.lsac.org.
You can take free online practice tests at www.testprepreview.com/lsat_practice.htm.
Additionally, Kaplan Test Prep (800-527-8378) and Advantage Education (888-737-6010) offer classes to prepare for the LSAT.
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When can I take a tour?
Please call (616) 301-6800, ext. 6948 to schedule a tour.
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When can I start and what time are the classes?
First-term Cooley classes at Grand Rapids start in January, May, and September of each year. Students starting in January take classes in the afternoon or on weekends, students starting in May take classes in the evening, and students starting in September take classes in the morning. Classes are offered year-round three semesters per year.
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How many credits can I take at Grand Rapids?
We have ABA acquiescence to offer the full 90-credit curriculum at Grand Rapids, as well as Higher Learning Commission approval.
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Can I take evening and weekend classes?
Yes, classes entering in January, may enroll in courses exclusively on weekends, and in May may enroll in courses exclusively in the evening.
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What time are classes held?
Mornings: 9 - Noon
Afternoons: 2 - 5 p.m., Mon., Wed., and Fri. and 3 - 6 p.m. Tues. and Thurs.
Evenings: 6 - 9 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday: 9 - 5 p.m.
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How many credits can I take each semester?
All Cooley's scheduling options are available at the Grand Rapids Campus.
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Can I take additional credits in Lansing and Auburn Hills while taking credits at Grand Rapids?
Yes, as long as the needed prerequisites are satisfied, there is seat availability, and the exam times of the classes taken in Lansing or Auburn Hills do not conflict with the class and exam times of the classes taken at Grand Rapids.
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Who teaches the classes at Grand Rapids?
Full-time Cooley Law School faculty teach the required classes offered in Grand Rapids. Adjunct faculty members consisting of practicing judges and lawyers teach our elective classes.
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Can I observe a law class in session?
We welcome those interested in observing a law class in session. To make arrangements, please contact (616) 301-6800.
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What about library services?
The Grand Rapids campus has a brand-new 20,000 square foot library with over 150 seats and a complete law school library collection. All classrooms and study areas on the GR Campus provide wireless Internet access and ample electrical outlets for laptop use.
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What about student services?
Cooley has full-time, resident administrators and student services providers at the Grand Rapids campus to serve our students' needs.
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Is campus housing available?
Please see www.cooley.edu/housing/gr.html.
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What other advantages are there to taking classes at Grand Rapids?
Grand Rapids is an exciting and growing community with a thriving business sector and a lively arts and entertainment culture. As Michigan's second largest city, Grand Rapids boasts a wealth of employment opportunities and no fewer than 15 colleges and universities. The area of Grand Rapids in which the Cooley campus is located, known as the Heartside District, is in the midst of an urban renaissance. Offices, lofts, and condos are being constructed nearby, while restaurants, galleries and artists' studios, and a thriving night life are within easy walking distance of the Grand Rapids Campus. And the Van Andel Arena, which hosts athletic events and concerts, is only two blocks from the law school.
Other advantages include:
- Small class size
- Low student to faculty ratio
- A tight-knit and collegial learning community
- Caring and accessible professors who are dedicated to helping students learn
- A strong emphasis on serving others
- A new 100,000 square-foot, five-story law school facility under construction
- The convenience of a downtown campus located two blocks from the interstate (U.S. 131)
- Accessibility to great restaurants, arts and entertainment venues, museums, colleges and universities, and more in downtown Grand Rapids
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How do I get to the Grand Rapids campus and where can I park?
Campus map and directions
Parking and Transportation in downtown Grand Rapids
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What facilities are available?
A brand-new 20,000 square foot library with over 150 seats and a complete law school library collection, a 30-seat computer lab/electronic classroom, four 100-seat classrooms, numerous smaller classrooms, two distance education classrooms, two courtrooms, seven group study rooms (seating four or five), and a student lounge with vending area. All classrooms and study areas on the Grand Rapids Campus provide wireless Internet access and ample electrical outlets for laptop use.
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