Upcoming Start Information
| Program Start Date | Priority Application Deadline | Final Application Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| September 2, 2025 | July 23, 2025 | July 30, 2025 |
There are three opportunities to begin the online Master of Legal Studies program each year: fall, spring, and summer.
It is free to apply to Vanderbilt’s online Master of Legal Studies program. Although applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, applicants are encouraged to submit their application as soon as possible. Those who submit their application by the priority deadline will receive an admissions decision sooner and have adequate time to complete the FAFSA.
You can expect to receive an admissions decision 5–10 days after submitting a completed application.
Admission to the online Master of Legal Studies program requires a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution. We seek applicants whose academic background, professional aspirations, personal commitment, and tech and communication skills meet the demands of a rigorous online legal master’s degree program. Prior exposure to or experience in law is not required. Admission does not require the LSAT, GRE, or other admission test. If you are an international applicant, you will be required to demonstrate English proficiency through the submission of TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores. Certain international applicants may qualify for an exemption. Please refer to the International Applicants page for more details.
If you have any questions about your application, contact an enrollment specialist at mls@onlineprograms.vanderbilt.edu or 629-284-0124.
Online Master of Legal Studies Information Session
Are you interested in learning more about the online Master of Legal Studies program? Register for our upcoming information session below:
Date: Wednesday, March 5 at 6:30pm CT
Topic: Gain insights about Vanderbilt University’s online Master of Legal Studies program from Faculty Director Garrick Pursley and Assistant Dean for Legal Studies Kelly Bahiraei during our MLS information session. Explore admissions requirements, discover what makes the program unique, dive into the online learning experience and engage in a Q&A to determine if the program is the right fit for you.
To learn more about the program, visit:
Admissions Checklist
- Online application
- Personal statement
Two to three pages, double-spaced in 12-point font, on your reasons for pursuing the MLS degree at Vanderbilt and why you feel you will be successful as an online graduate student. - Resume/curriculum vitae (CV)
- Transcripts
A bachelor’s degree conferred prior to enrollment in the MLS program is required. Before we can consider your application for admission, you must upload an unofficial copy of your undergraduate transcript which shows the date on which your bachelor’s degree was conferred. If you are offered admission, official transcripts must be sent directly from the school that conferred your bachelor’s degree to the Office of the Vanderbilt University Registrar at least one week prior to the start date of the term for which you have applied.
Although it is not required, you may supplement your application with an optional letter of recommendation from a teacher, professor, employer, or another individual who can speak to your ability to meet the demands of a rigorous online graduate program. Additionally, you may supplement your application by recording an optional video statement through your application portal.
Please note that at the discretion of the admissions committee, we may request additional materials or an interview. International applicants are encouraged to visit the International Applicants page for detailed information regarding admissions requirements.
Get started now
To learn more about the online Master of Legal Studies and download a brochure, please fill out this form. You can also reach an enrollment specialist directly by calling 629-284-0124.