If you’re considering applying to law school, you may have come across the Law School Admission Council’s (LSAC) Credential Assembly Service (CAS). This service is a central hub for collecting and processing your application materials, making the admissions process smoother for both you and the schools to which you’re applying. To help demystify CAS, we’ve compiled a list of 10 frequently asked questions and their answers.
1. What is LSAC’s CAS system?
LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service (CAS) is a service that collects and processes your transcripts, letters of recommendation, and other application materials on behalf of the law schools to which you apply. It simplifies the application process by centralizing all of your documents in one place.
2. How do I indicate the prior educational institutions I have attended?
When you sign up for CAS, you will be asked to provide information about all of the colleges and universities you have attended. Any programming completed after your bachelor's degree will be considered "graduate". You will then work directly with these institutions to obtain your official transcripts.
3. How do I submit my transcripts to CAS?
You will need to request official transcripts from all colleges and universities you have attended. These transcripts should be sent directly to LSAC, either electronically or by mail.
4. How do I arrange for my letters of recommendation to be sent to CAS?
You will request your letters of recommendation to be sent directly to CAS. You will be provided with a unique CAS reference number for each of your letter writers to use when submitting their letters.
5. What is a character and fitness addendum, and how do I submit it through CAS?
A character and fitness addendum is a document in which you disclose any past legal issues or disciplinary actions. If applicable, you will upload this addendum to your CAS account.
6. What is an LSAT/GPA addendum, and how do I submit it through CAS?
An LSAT/GPA addendum is a document in which you explain any irregularities in your LSAT score or GPA. If you choose to submit one, you will upload this addendum to your CAS account.
7. Is there a cost to use the CAS system?
Yes, there is a one-time fee to use CAS, which covers the processing and distribution of your application materials to the law schools to which you apply.
8. Where can I find application requirements related to addenda?
You can find information about addenda and other application requirements on the websites of the law schools to which you are applying. The specific requirements for addenda may vary from school to school.
9. Can the Ginsburg Advanced admissions consultants help me with the CAS process?
Yes, the admissions consultants at Ginsburg Advanced are well-versed in the CAS system and can support you through the process. They can help you gather and organize your application materials, navigate the CAS portal, and ensure that all of your documents are submitted correctly and on time.
10. How do I get started with using LSAC’s CAS system?
To get started with CAS, you will need to create an account on the LSAC website and follow their step-by-step instructions for registering for and using the service. You can find the system here: https://www.lsac.org/. For more FAQs, check out https://www.lsac.org/help/cas-faqs.
LSAC’s Credential Assembly Service is a valuable tool for simplifying the law school application process. Most schools require applications to be submitted in CAS, because it centralizes your application materials and streamlines the submission process.
With the support of the admissions consultants at Ginsburg Advanced, you can navigate the CAS system with confidence and ease, ensuring that your application stands out to the law schools of your choice.