How to Prepare for Law School: A Guide for Future Legal Minds

For many students, the decision to pursue a career in law is the first step on an exciting journey. Law school can be immensely rewarding, but it is also demanding, requiring intellectual rigour, resilience, and a genuine passion for learning. The earlier you begin preparing, the more confident and ready you’ll feel when the time comes.

Develop Strong Academic Foundations

Law schools look for students who can think critically, write clearly, and analyse complex material. Subjects such as history, politics, philosophy, and English literature are excellent training grounds for these skills, but don’t feel limited to the humanities. A broad academic background – including economics or even STEM subjects – demonstrates adaptability and problem-solving ability.

Alongside classroom work, practice essay writing and debate. Being able to structure an argument persuasively and present it under pressure is one of the cornerstones of legal education.

Read Widely and Stay Informed

Legal systems don’t exist in isolation – they evolve in response to society, politics, and culture. Students preparing for law school should develop the habit of staying up to date with current affairs, reading quality newspapers, journals, and opinion pieces. Supplement this with books on legal history and introductory guides to different areas of law, so that you arrive at law school with a broader context.

Gain Relevant Experience

Work experience is not just a CV booster; it helps you test whether the realities of a legal career match your expectations. Consider internships, shadowing opportunities, or volunteering with community organisations. Even non-legal roles that require attention to detail, teamwork, and communication can help you cultivate the skills lawyers use every day.

Many law firms also offer open days for students considering a legal career. These experiences give you valuable insight into how firms operate and what qualities they seek in future recruits.

Cultivate Soft Skills

Success in law is not only about intellect – it’s also about how you work with others. Developing your confidence in public speaking, teamwork, and leadership will serve you well at university and beyond. Joining debating societies, student government, or even drama clubs can sharpen these skills in enjoyable ways.

Expert Advice from the Profession

Lawyers themselves emphasise the importance of balancing academic preparation with personal growth. As Henry Humphreys, Managing Partner at Humphreys Law, explains:

“Law school rewards students who arrive not only with sharp minds, but also with curiosity, empathy, and resilience. The best preparation is to embrace opportunities that challenge you both inside and outside the classroom.”

Look After Yourself

Finally, law school is intense, so learning how to manage your wellbeing is crucial. Building habits of good time management, stress management, and work–life balance before you begin will make the transition smoother.

Preparing for law school is about more than grades – it’s about cultivating a mindset. If you can combine academic excellence with curiosity, resilience, and an eagerness to engage with the world, you’ll be ready not only to thrive at law school, but to take the first steps toward a rewarding legal career.

At Oxford Royale, our Law and Politics programmes give you a first taste of studying law at university level, with world-class teaching, mock trials, and debate workshops designed to sharpen the skills admissions tutors are looking for. If you’re ready to explore the world of law in one of the most inspiring academic settings in the world, discover our summer programmes.