Just spoke with an advisor at UVic regarding my application; some feedback relevant to future applicants and re-applicants
I was recently waitlisted at UVic, and their waitlist email offered the opportunity to provide feedback to applicants on how they could have improved their applications. I'll redact the feedback that was specific to my application, but from our conversation I've gathered a few bits of generalized advice for applicants. And yes, I've asked for consent before sharing.
- The review process is holistic. Don't be discouraged if you are applying with a low GPA, if you can make it up with a higher LSAT and vice versa! Reviewers are also paying attention to the self-awareness, professionalism, etc. you exhibit in written materials. Every bit counts.
- Timing matters (for schools on a rolling admissions process like UVic)! I took the Jan LSAT and submitted my application in November for UVic, which delayed their review process and meant they couldn't actually look at my file until after they've already started sending out offers. Don't treat the deadline schools give as the deadline by which you submit your applications; apply as early as possible -- even September 1st -- and take an earlier LSAT administration to make sure your file makes it into the hands of adcom before they start filling up the class.
- This process will likely get more competitive. I don't know if I can share the exact numbers, but UVic received a super dramatic increase in applications this year from the last, which can be attributed to the greater economic uncertainty. It is unlikely that schools will add more seats to their incoming classes as a result of this because the regulatory body that governs over law schools actually caps this number, so with more applicants and rising LSAT scores the process will only become more competitive, especially if we fall into a prolonged recession.
- Do not trust this board as your primary source of information during the law school admissions process. If you have questions about a school's review process, reach out to the admissions office directly to see what's really important to the school.
- All law schools in Canada are regulated by the same board; each school has its unique strengths and advantages. Do not be blinded by whatever you think Canada's law school rankings are. During this cycle and upcoming cycles, any offer is a good offer. (So apply more broadly if circumstances allow!)
That said, she told me to pass on a message of optimism -- the old adage that hard work pays off is still true, even if the payoff is not immediately obvious. If you went no-offer this cycle, keep working at that LSAT -- reviewers will take score increases into account and those efforts will be evident! I was really thankful UVic has been so transparent to their applicants throughout (God knows this has not been the case at every institution). If you don't get it this year, keep at it again next year.
Good luck everyone!