ABA launches 'Welcome to Law School,' a pre-law preparation program

The American Bar Association’s Law Student Division has announced that it has collaborated with Kaplan, a leading global education provider, to offer a new course for incoming law students. The Welcome to Law School course will offer a more affordable way to get a sneak peek at the 1L experience. This marks the first time the ABA has worked with a test prep provider to contribute course content.

 The online program, which includes materials from both Kaplan and the ABA, features 18 hours of on-demand video instruction — everything from contracts to torts — that can be completed in a week, coupled with more than 60 engaging assignments. The program has been organized into smaller segments to allow busy professionals to complete them around work and other commitments.

“The first weeks of law school can be challenging, and very different from the undergraduate experience,” said ABA President Judy Perry Martinez. “That’s why the ABA partnered with Kaplan to launch the new Welcome to Law School course. At the ABA, we’re dedicated to helping law students and young lawyers excel, academically and professionally. This course is designed to help incoming 1Ls be more prepared for the challenges of law school.”

 “We know that this admissions cycle has been one like no other, with so many students’ plans interrupted by the pandemic,” said Tammi Rice, vice president of Kaplan’s law and government division. “One of the purposes of this program is to help incoming 1Ls effectively manage their stress levels, to recognize their internal dialogue and to not catastrophize. This course will help keep incoming law school students focused on what will help them succeed in their first year of law school.”