Binding Early Decision Application
For the 2010 application cycle, Duke Law School offers a binding Early Decision option for applicants to the fall-starting JD program as well as the summer-starting dual degree programs, including the JD/LLM in International and Comparative Law and the JD/MA and JD/MS programs.
The program is most appropriate for candidates who have concluded that Duke is their first choice for law school and who do not anticipate the need to compare offers of financial aid in making a decision about where to matriculate. Candidates who apply through the Early Decision program may apply to other law schools, but are not permitted to apply to other binding early decision programs. If admitted to Duke Law School, Early Decision candidates will be required to immediately withdraw their applications at other law schools, refrain from submitting new applications, and submit a $500 tuition deposit by January 8, 2010.
Early Decision candidates must apply no later than November 2, 2009. Applications must be complete no later than November 13, 2009. Duke Law School will notify Early Decision candidates about their status no later than December 31, 2009. Some Early Decision candidates may be held for review in the regular cycle; candidates who are held for consideration in the regular cycle will no longer be bound by the terms of the Early Decision agreement. Duke Law School reserves the right to provide other law schools with the names of candidates admitted through the binding Early Decision program.
Early Decision candidates must also complete the Early Decision Certification in Section 12 of the JD application.