St. Francis ReEnrollment and Prior Law School Policy (ADM 100-015)

1.0 Purpose

This policy outlines the re-enrollment and prior law school requirements for applicants seeking admission to St. Francis School of Law.  The goal is to provide clear guidance on the necessary steps for applicants with prior legal education experience or those who have experienced institutional discipline, ensuring transparency and support throughout the admissions process.

2.0 Definitions

Academic Acceptance Committee (AAC) – The committee responsible for reviewing applications holistically and making admissions decisions based on applicant qualifications.

Institutional Discipline – Any conduct-related action resulting in suspension, dismissal, or other disciplinary measures at a previous educational institution.

Starting First-Year Law Studies Over Certification – A required form for applicants who elect to or are required to restart their legal education, submitted to the State Bar of California.

3.0 Scope

This policy applies to applicants seeking to enroll at St. Francis School of Law, including those who have previously attended law school and those who have experienced disciplinary action at another institution.  St. Francis School of Law values the diverse experiences and backgrounds of all applicants and strives to provide a fair and supportive admissions process.  Whether students are returning to legal studies after a prior academic challenge or continuing their educational journey from another law school, this policy ensures they have clear guidance on the necessary steps for admission.

4.0 Policy Statement

St. Francis School of Law recognizes that every applicant’s educational journey is unique.  Our goal is to provide a fair and thorough review of each applicant’s background while supporting their aspirations for legal education.

Applicants with Prior Institutional Discipline

Applicants who have been dropped, suspended, or otherwise disciplined by an institution for a conduct-related issue are required to submit:

• A detailed explanation outlining each incident, including the dates of attendance and the circumstances surrounding the disciplinary action.
• A signed Institution Discipline Disclosure Form, which will be provided by the Admissions Office.

Applicants with Prior Law School Experience

St. Francis School of Law welcomes applicants who have previously attended law school and will work with each student to determine the best path forward in their legal education. Applicants with prior law school experience are required to submit:

• Official transcripts reflecting all prior law study as part of the admission process.
• Submit the Application for Evaluation of Law Study Completed and Contemplated.  The form can be found here:  Application for Evaluation of Law Study Completed and Contemplated.

Starting Over Requirements

In some cases, applicants may elect to, or be required to, restart their legal studies as a condition of admission.  If this applies, the applicant is required to:

• File the Starting First-Year Law Studies Over Certification with the State Bar of California.  The required form can be found here: Starting First-Year Law Studies Over Certification.
• Provide St. Francis School of Law with a copy of the approved Starting Over Form upon receipt from the State Bar of California.

Applicants Previously Disqualified or Dismissed from Law School

Applicants who have been previously disqualified or dismissed from any law school for academic reasons may be considered for admission if they demonstrate their ability to successfully pursue legal studies.  Applicants may qualify under one of the following conditions:

• Exceptional Circumstances – Applicants may apply at any time if they can provide credible evidence that their prior disqualification resulted from an event or hardship that prevented them from performing at their normal level, rather than a lack of capacity for legal study.
• Demonstrated Growth Over Time – Applicants may apply after at least two (2) years have passed since their disqualification if they can demonstrate that work, study, or other experiences during this time have strengthened their ability to succeed in law school.

In each case, the Academic Acceptance Committee will carefully review the applicant’s submission to determine whether they have demonstrated the potential for success in legal education.  If admitted, the Dean will document the rationale for the decision in the applicant’s file.

Reapplying After Denial

Applicants who applied for and were denied admission for a prior term, and who believe there are significant new developments or additional information that was not available at the time of their initial review, may contact the Admissions Office at admissions@stfrancislaw.com to discuss their options for reapplying.

5.0 Procedures

Submission of Required Documentation 

Applicants with prior institutional discipline are required to submit the required disclosure form and supporting documentation before their application will be reviewed.

Evaluation of Prior Law School Experience

Applicants are required to submit official transcripts from all prior law studies for review by the Admissions Office and the Academic Acceptance Committee, as well as submit the Application for Evaluation of Law Study Completed and Contemplated to the State Bar of California, along with the accompanying $100 fee by cashier’s check or money order made payable to the State Bar of California.

Starting Over Process 

If required to restart their legal education, applicants are required to file the Starting First-Year Law Studies Over Certification with the State Bar of California and provide proof of approval to St. Francis School of Law.

Application Review

Upon receipt of their completed applicant file, the Academic Acceptance Committee will conduct a thorough and holistic evaluation of each application, considering academic background, professional experience, and overall preparedness for legal studies.

6.0 Responsibilities

Applicants

Applicants are responsible for ensuring the submission of all required documentation, including transcripts, disclosures, and forms, before their application is reviewed.

Admissions Office

The Admissions Office is responsible for processing applications, verifying submitted materials, and coordinating communication with applicants.

Academic Acceptance Committee

The Academic Acceptance Committee is responsible for evaluating applications, determining eligibility for re-enrollment, and ensuring that all admissions decisions align with institutional policies.

7.0 Citations & Related Information

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