Term Dates: Juris Doctor (J.D.) Students
| Program | Application must be completed by: |
|---|---|
| J.D. Three-year Program J.D. Four-year Program | Fall 2026 (mid-August start) semester priority deadline is: March 15 Fall 2026 (mid-August start) semester official deadline is June 30 |
| Flex JD Program (3 years, 3 months) | Fall 2026 (mid-August start) semester priority deadline is: March 15 Fall 2026 (mid-August start) semester official deadline is June 30 |
| J.D. Transfer | Fall 2026 (mid-August start) semester deadline is: June 30 |
Notice Regarding Spring 2026 JD Program Start
Albany Law School has conducted a review of its academic calendar and enrollment planning for the upcoming year. As a result of this evaluation, the Law School will not offer a Spring 2026 start for incoming J.D. students.
While the Spring 2026 program start will not be available, we welcome and encourage applicants to consider joining the Fall 2026 entering class.
Students interested in an accelerated path to the J.D. degree may still pursue our Two-Year Accelerated Juris Doctor Program, which remains available beginning in Fall 2026.
There are two formats available:
- Two-Year Option. Fall 2026 – Summer 2028. Students who are admitted to the two-year accelerated Juris Doctor would be enrolled in classes during the following semesters: Fall 2026, Spring 2027, Summer 2027, Fall 2027, Spring 2028, and Summer 2028. Students who elect this option would not be eligible to take the bar exam in July 2028. Students would prepare to sit for the February 2029 Bar Exam.
- Two and ½ Year Option. Fall 2026 – Fall 2028. Students who are admitted to the two-year accelerated Juris Doctor would be enrolled in classes during the following semesters: Fall 2026, Spring 2027, Summer 2027, Fall 2027, Spring 2028, and Fall 2028. Students who elect this option would seek employment during Summer 2028 and would sit for the February 2029 Bar Exam.
Albany Law School’s Admissions team is available to answer questions and provide guidance for anyone navigating this transition or exploring the best enrollment option. We encourage prospective students to contact the Office of Admissions to discuss programs, timelines, or next steps.
We appreciate your interest in Albany Law School and your commitment to planning a meaningful pathway to legal education. We look forward to supporting you as you consider joining our community. Email us at admissions@albanylaw.edu.