APEX Summer Legal Program Achieving Potential and Excellence at W&L Law

logo of apex programDate: June 1-4, 2027
Cost: Free

Application Opens January 4, 2027
Application Deadline: April 23, 2027

About the Program

Are you a rising junior or senior considering law school? Do you need guidance on law school admission, the LSAT, law school classes or legal career paths? Would you like to connect with peers who share your interest in studying law? Join Washington and Lee's APEX Program 2027, a FREE, four-day virtual program that will accelerate your law school admissions journey. The program schedule is from 12:00 p.m.- 4:00 p.m. EST with LSAT prep from 7:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m. EST provided by Educational Testing Consultants (ETC).

Program Purpose

The APEX Program aims to expand access to legal education for underrepresented college students by offering comprehensive insights into the law school admissions process, LSAT preparation, law school curriculum, and career opportunities with a JD. We welcome applications from current rising juniors and seniors, with any major, school, or state of residence.

Program Highlights

  • Admissions Guidance: Gain valuable insights into the application and admissions process, including how to craft a compelling personal statement.
  • Financial Planning: Learn strategies for financing your law school education.
  • Mock Law Classes: Experience what it's like to be in a law school classroom.
  • Student Panels: Hear from current students about their law school experiences.
  • Professional Panels: Explore topics such as navigating the professional world as a person of color.
  • FREE LSAT Prep: Participate in a complimentary LSAT prep class that includes all necessary materials.

Participants of APEX who successfully complete the program and are admitted to W&L Law within 4 years of participating in the program will receive a minimum merit scholarship award of $10,000.

Application Requirements

  • Transcripts (An unofficial or advising transcript is accepted)
  • A Resume
  • 1 page statement of interest (Why do you want to go to law school, and how will this program help you achieve your goals?)

* Incomplete applications will not be considered for the program.

Testimonials

"The APEX program provided me with an entirely new outlook on my future both personally and academically. This program provided valuable insights on not only the law school admissions process, but life during and beyond law school. I am incredibly grateful to have been a part of this program and hope more students know programs like these are available!"

- Vienna Alcure, West Virginia University, Class of 2027

"APEX is an incredible program doing wonders to able to increase access for diverse applicants to law school. I feel much more confident applying to law school now that I have completed the APEX program. It eased a lot of anxieties and apprehension I had with the application cycle."

- Noor Ul Ain Kaifee, University of Richmond, Class of 2027

"The APEX Summer Legal Program was an incredible experience that strengthened my commitment to pursuing a legal career. As a Law and Public Policy student, I appreciated the opportunity to learn about legal concepts, case analysis, law school admissions, and the realities of the legal profession directly from faculty, students, and legal professionals. The program provided valuable mentorship, practical guidance, and a clearer understanding of what it takes to succeed in law school. I left APEX more confident, more informed, and even more excited about my future in the legal field."

- Ashton Manning, Mercer University, Class of 2027

"The APEX program was a high-intensity law school bootcamp that I'd recommend to anyone considering law school. From reading real cases spanning migrant rights and contract law to criminal law, to sitting in on mock classes led by professors, the program gave me a real feel for what's ahead. Beyond the class experience, the information about the application process alone was invaluable. It reinforced my decision to apply to law school, and I also learned enough about W&L Law specifically. Whether you're completely certain about law school or still weighing your options, I genuinely believe this program has something meaningful to offer you. Really grateful for the experience."

- Lyne Malele, Hofstra University, Class of 2027

"The W&L Law APEX Program is an incredible resource as I prepare to apply for law school. As a first-generation college student, I was unfamiliar with the law school application process, but I now feel more confident and prepared to apply. Meeting with current law students, alumni, law faculty, and admissions was an invaluable opportunity for mentorship before, during, and after law school. Receiving guidance from LSAT test instructors and essay writing experts provided me with the skills necessary to maximize my application. I am now more prepared to navigate a process that previously seemed daunting, and I am grateful for the knowledge that I obtained from this program."

- Celeste Álvarez, Washington and Lee University, Class of 2026

The APEX program was an eye-opening experience that helped solidify my path toward law school and a career in justice. The mentorship, resources, and exposure to legal professionals were incredibly impactful and motivating. As a first-generation college student, I truly valued the program's support for underrepresented students in the legal field. I'm grateful for the connections made and the clarity it provided in shaping my future goals.

- Giovanny Klyd Exilus, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Class of 2028

"I had the privilege of being part of the inaugural cohort of the Washington and Lee University School of Law APEX Summer Program. I extend my heartfelt thanks to Anna Fernández and the W&L Law professors, students, and graduates who enriched this initiative. This experience was incredibly educational and provided invaluable guidance for the law school application process and success as a Pre-Law undergraduate with my sights set on ultimately pursuing a Juris Doctor. Moreover, as a Latina, I am especially appreciative of this program's resources, education, and support for underrepresented students. I am grateful for the connections I made and look forward to applying the insights gained as I continue my journey in the legal field."

- Alejandra Afanador, Class of 2027, Rutgers

"Being in the APEX program gave me an insight into my aspirations to attend law school. This was an absolute privilege to be a part of and everyone to the program coordination, student advocates, special guest speakers, and the professors all made this an amazing experience for me. Now since this program is completed, I even have a higher interest in going to law school and it is now a future I want to pursue. Thank you APEX."

- Alex Cifuentes, Class of 2026, University of Illinois at Chicago