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Do I need to send official transcripts from my prior schools?
Yes, this is extremely important! Barry Law needs official transcripts from each undergraduate institution attended. The CAS does not contain official transcripts. You will not be registered for classes until all official transcripts are received. The official transcript stating the degree awarded and the date conferred must be received before you will be allowed to attend classes. If you are not able to produce an official transcript with your degree posted, a notification that all degree requirements have been met will be required from the registrar's office of your graduating institution. All transcripts should be sent to: Office of Admissions, Barry University School of Law, 6441 E. Colonial Drive , Orlando , Florida 32807.
When can I expect to receive my registration packet?
Registration information will be posted on MyBarry. We will send you an email as soon as the information is available. All forms in the packet section (vehicle registration, medical history, annual notice, etc. ) must be filled out and submitted before the class registration forms can be completed. Keep in mind that for the first academic year, you do not have any choice with regard to classes as these are assigned. All 1L (first year) students will take the same courses, though they may have different professors. After the first year, you still have other course requirements but you may choose your schedule at that point.
When should I fill out the FAFSA to receive the Federal Stafford Loan?
You should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) as soon as possible so the financial aid office has plenty of time to process your loan and ensure that your law school studies will not be delayed. Almost any law school candidate can receive this federal loan money ($20,500 per year) subject to the restrictions listed on the FAFSA web site. You may complete this application from our web site at http://www.barry.edu/law/future-students/financial-services/
Is a laptop required?
No, a laptop is not required but many students use them to take notes and exams. The Barry Law campus offers wireless access in all buildings. The IT department will assist you during orientation to be sure your computer is law-school ready.
What should I do if I realize there is something omitted from my original application for admission?
You must amend your application as soon as possible if you realize you omitted something. Such amendments must be submitted in writing reporting the relevant information and an explanation for the omission. You must also sign and date.
Do I have a continuing responsibility to update this application while a student at the law school?
Yes, absolutely. Just because a significant event occurred after you submitted your application does not mean you do not have to report it. For example, if you are charged with a crime at any time after the date on your application, you must submit all related paperwork for inclusion in your file. Check with the Registrar to amend your application.
I am not sure if I want to practice law in the state of Florida. Is there anything I should consider in making that decision?
Each state establishes bar registration and admission standards, including standards for character and fitness. It is strongly recommended that each student consult with the appropriate bar official of the state(s) in which he/she intends to practice to determine these admission requirements.
When is orientation?
Orientation is mandatory and is generally scheduled the week prior to the start of classes. Information will be emailed to you as it becomes available.
How does the law school assist students academically?
Barry University School of Law is committed to helping our students reach their academic goals in a caring and supportive environment. The Academic Success Program helps students develop the academic skills necessary to succeed in law school. The three main components of the program include the Study Skills Program, the Writing Center, and individual counseling. The program is supervised by the Director of Academic Success, a full-time faculty member. The program is also staffed with the Student Coordinator of Academic Success and several carefully selected student leaders.
What about bar prep?
In 2003, the law school implemented a formal supplemental bar preparatory program at no cost to law students. The extensive program now includes lectures, simulated exams, and individual tutoring on both the national multi-state portion and the Florida portion of the exam. If you have any questions about the program, please contact Assistant Dean of Bar Preparation and Academic Success, Ms. Kaci Kohler-Line at kline@ barry.edu.
Can I work during law school?
Part-Time students may work as desired. However, full-time students may not work more than 20 hours per week per the ABA standards and Barry Law policy. Full-time students must sign a form indicating that they understand this rule and agree to abide by it. These forms will be given out by the Registrar during orientation. The law school encourages students to focus on their studies during the first academic year.
Does Barry offer scholarships? How do I apply for Scholarships?
Yes! Barry Law is very proud of the scholarship program. In fact, 100 percent of last year’s entering class received an institutional scholarship from $1,000 and up. Admitted candidates are automatically considered for scholarships and do not need to complete any additional forms. If a scholarship is offered to you, a notice will be sent with your official acceptance letter. Barry Law wants you to have this information as soon as possible in order to weigh your options.
What happens if I don't meet the required law GPA to maintain my Barry institutional scholarship?
The scholarship renewal process automatically occurs after spring term grades are posted. Renewal is based on the student maintaining the minimum cumulative grade-point-average (cgpa) noted in the award letter. Unlike most schools that remove scholarships, if renewal criteria are not met, Barry University School of Law will reduce your scholarship if the required cgpa is not earned but is within a certain range of the requirement. If the cgpa is outside of this range, the scholarship will be removed.
What kind of financial aid is available aside from scholarships?
Students are eligible for the Federal Stafford Loan regardless of financial circumstances (certain criminal convictions may be a hindrance, however). This covers $20,500 of tuition. The remaining tuition (don't forget to subtract scholarship money) and living expenses can be covered via Grad Plus loans. Please contact the Director of Student Financial Services, Jean Walker at jmwalker@barry.edu for more information about student loans and special payment plans.
Can I defer my acceptance for more than one year? Is my scholarship offer still valid if my deferral is granted?
Accepted candidates may request a deferral for the next incoming class. If you wish to be considered for the following year, you will need to reapply for admission. The admissions committee will review the file based on the new parameters set for the next entering class. If you are admitted, you will be awarded a scholarship based on the scholarship grid for the current entering class.
Does Barry Law offer on-campus housing?
No, Barry Law does not offer on-campus housing. However, the Orlando area has a wealth of apartments and houses for rent. Students may check with the admissions office for a list of apartments where law students currently live, the local newspaper, or agencies like Apartment Hunters.
How can I find a roommate at this point (not knowing anyone from my class)?
In May, admissions will offer to deposit paying students the opportunity to mingle with fellow classmates via Facebook. We will provide more information at that time. The Office of Admissions also offers an apartment list based on the recommendations of current students.
Is Barry Law accredited?
Barry University School of Law is fully accredited by the ABA Section of Legal Education and Admission to the Bar. Further information as to the Standards and Rules of Procedure for the Approval of Law Schools by the American Bar Association may be obtained from 321 North Clark Street Chicago, IL 60654, (312) 988-6738.
How large is the entering class?
The goal for the entering class changes each year. For the next entering class, the admissions office is planning for approximately 210 full-time day students and 50 evening students. Full-time day students are generally divided into two to three sections.
Are summer classes available after the first year?
Yes. After completing first year courses, students may attend the summer session. The available courses offered during the summer change each year. Look for the summer schedule sometime during the spring semester. Summer classes are charged on a per credit basis as opposed to the fall and spring semesters included in the annual tuition figure. Check with the financial aid office for current per credit hour rates and for information regarding available financial aid during the summer. Barry Law will honor credits for study abroad as long as the program in question is ABA-approved.
Checklist Prior to Orientation
- Return registration packet to the Registrar within 2 weeks of receipt
- Send official transcripts from every institution you ever attended directly to the Barry Law Admissions Office
- Fill out FAFSA and other loan paperwork as soon as possible
- Secure housing and transportation
