About Windsor Law
Windsor Law has been dedicated to access to justice for more than 50 years, providing students with a broad legal education and practical law skills. Windsor Law is an exceptional school that nurtures lifelong relationships through its people-centered and community-engaged approach.
We have an international reputation for our focus on the themes of access to justice and transnational legal issues. It permeates all that we do – our admission policy, our curriculum, our experiential learning and our research.
The Faculty of Law is located on the main campus of the University of Windsor near one of Canada’s most scenic waterfronts. It is approximately 3 kilometres west of downtown Windsor. The campus is situated along the Detroit River at the foot of the Ambassador Bridge to the US. It is surrounded by many attractions and amenities that make it an ideal location for students. There is no better place to study comparative Canada-US law or to earn joint Canadian & American Dual Juris Doctor (JD) degrees that will allow you to practice law in both countries.
The Faculty of Law is located on the main campus of the University of Windsor, approximately 3 kilometres west of downtown Windsor. The campus is situated along the Detroit River at the foot of the Ambassador Bridge to the US.
Windsor Law actively seeks a diverse student body through an innovative holistic admission process. We look for students who will excel in the study of law and can contribute creatively and meaningfully to the community. Our commitment to excellence in legal education, research and community makes Windsor Law an ideal choice for those seeking top-notch legal education. With outstanding faculty, a wide range of degree programs and an active clinical program, Windsor Law provides an unparalleled experience.
The Faculty is accredited by the Law Society of Ontario and all of the other common law societies in Canada.
Program Information
Juris Doctor Program
The program leading to the Juris Doctor (JD) degree requires admission as a full-time student for 3 years.
First-year Curriculum
The first-year curriculum establishes the foundations of knowledge in the fundamental disciplines, contemporary problems and principles of law.
The compulsory first-year curriculum includes:
- Access to Justice
- Property Law
- Contract Law
- Criminal Law and Procedure
- Constitutional Law
- Legal Research and Writing
- Indigenous Legal Orders
Upper-year Curriculum
Upper-year compulsory and elective courses extend the foundational understanding of law, developed in the first year of study, and provide opportunities for in-depth knowledge development through the customization of bespoke programs of study.
Upper-year compulsory courses include:
- Torts
- Civil Procedure
- Administrative Law
- The Legal Profession
Upper-year qualifications include:
- 1 academic research paper, worth at least 50% of the grade in any course,
- 1 course from a group of courses that gives a broader perspective of the legal process and legal theory and
- 1 course from a group of courses on transnational law.
Additionally, beyond satisfaction of the Federation of Law Societies’ competency requirements, the JD program is comprised of optional courses intended to captivate student interests, and address the many opportunities and challenges students will face in their careers.
Canadian & American Dual Juris Doctor Program
Dual JD Overview
The Dual JD program at Windsor Law and Detroit Mercy Law is the only comparative program of its kind in Canada and the US. Graduates will earn a Canadian and American law degree in 3 years, allowing them to pursue careers in both countries.
Windsor Law and Detroit Mercy Law are very close to one another, which allows for an integrated course of study and a truly unique educational experience. Students in the program will attend classes on both sides of an international border (often on the same day) and they will experience 2 different legal cultures.
The Windsor Law JD is accredited by the Federation of Law Societies of Canada, allowing graduates to sit for provincial bar examinations in Canada. The Detroit Mercy Law JD is accredited by the American Bar Association, allowing graduates to sit for any bar exam in the US.
Dual JD Program Admission and Criteria
You must successfully complete your undergraduate (bachelor’s) degree by August 1 in the year of entry.
Your application is reviewed by the Dual JD program Admissions Committee using 7 criteria:
- Grade point average (GPA) and university program
- Work experience
- Community involvement
- Personal accomplishments
- Career objectives
- Personal considerations
- Law School Admission Test (LSAT) score
The Dual JD program Admissions Committee places weight on your GPA and LSAT score. The Admissions Committee assesses applications based on these 7 criteria.
The primary source of information about you is the information you provide in your Personal Statement (found in the application in School Submissions). Take care to present a full and rounded view of yourself in your Personal Statement.
Dual JD Program Application Procedure
Applications are considered for first-year enrollment only; current law students cannot transfer into the Dual JD Program.
The Dual JD program Admissions Committee is composed of faculty members from both Detroit Mercy Law and Windsor Law.
Detroit Mercy Law requires applicants to submit a Supplemental Application Form, which must be completed and uploaded through your OLSAS application. Please explain why you are interested in a transnational legal education.
The following materials are required to apply to the Dual JD Program:
- OLSAS application
- Windsor Law Personal Statement (part of the application in “School Submissions”)
- All official transcripts
- Current LSAT score
- 2 letters of reference (1 academic and 1 non-academic)
- Detroit Mercy Law Supplemental Application Form (found in the application and uploaded via Secure Applicant Messaging [SAM])
Dual JD Application Deadline
April 15, 2024
Dual JD Late Applications
After April 15, 2024, you may request an extended deadline by sending an email and addressing it to the Director of Admissions for the Dual JD Program.
You must state your reasons for failing to meet the original deadline of April 15, 2024.
Files completed after this date may not be considered.
Dual JD Immigration Requirements
If you are qualified, you may need study permit(s) or visa(s) to participate in the program. You will require a student visa or study permit to participate in the Dual JD program because it involves study in Canada and the US. Make sure you have a valid passport.
Program administrators work closely with incoming Dual JD students regarding immigration matters. You will receive information in May and June about the steps you must take to participate in the program.
If you are not a citizen of Canada or the US, you may need consular approval for your study visa. If you are not a citizen of either country, allow additional time for visa processing.
We welcome all students to the program, but enrollment is conditional on visa and study permit approval. Visa and study permit eligibility is at the discretion of the US Department of Homeland Security and the Canada Border Services Agency.
Do not begin any kind of visa or permit application. Dual JD program staff will contact you about this process. For more information, visit the US Department of Homeland Security and the Government of Canada Immigration and Citizenship web pages.
Dual JD Curriculum
First-year Curriculum
Windsor Law:
- Canadian & US Property Law (6 credits)
- Canadian & US Contracts (6 credits)
- Canadian & US Criminal Law (6 credits)
- Canadian Constitutional Law (5 credits)
- Indigenous Legal Orders (3 credits)
Detroit Mercy Law:
- Comparative Legal Writing & Research (9 credits)
Required Summer Courses After First Year
Detroit Mercy Law:
- US Civil Procedure (3 credits)
- US Constitutional Law (4 credits)
Second Year Required Courses
Windsor Law:
- Canadian Civil Procedure (4 credits)
Detroit Mercy Law:
- Canadian & US Torts (5 credits)
- Canadian & US Professional Responsibility (4 credits)
- Canadian & US Business Organizations (5 credits)
- Canadian & US Evidence (5 credits)
Additional Upper-year Required Courses
Windsor Law:
- Administrative Law (4 credits)
- Sufficient electives to complete 45 total credits at Windsor Law
Detroit Mercy Law:
- Transnational Law courses (totalling 6 credits)
- Law Firm Program course (3 credits)
- Clinic course (3 credits)
- Upper-level writing course (2 credits)
- Sufficient electives to complete 60 total credits at Detroit Mercy Law
The Integrated Master of Social Work/Juris Doctor (MSW/JD) Program
MSW/JD Overview
The MSW/JD is a dual degree program designed specifically for students who want to obtain both MSW and JD degrees. The program is structured to enable a student to obtain an MSW and a JD degree 1 full year sooner than if the student had chosen to pursue the degrees independently.
Applicants who hold a Bachelor of Social Work Degree (BSW) can obtain an MSW and a JD in 3 years, while applicants with an Honours degree in a related discipline can obtain the degree in 4 years.
The course sequencing is planned so that students can gain experience in the 2 professions simultaneously, including 2 specialized courses that integrate law and social work knowledge, perspectives and professional identity.
MSW/JD graduates will be well positioned to serve the diverse and complex needs required of employers in the legal and/or human services. Children’s Aid Societies, Office of the Children’s Lawyer, and Legal Aid providers are possible employers of graduates from this program.
Visit the School of Social Work website for more information about the Advanced Standing 3-year program (students with a BSW), and the Regular Track 4-year program (students without a BSW).
If you seek to enter the MSW/JD program, indicate so on your application. If you apply to the MSW/JD program, you must apply separately to the Faculty of Law and the School of Social Work and meet the admission criteria for each program.
MSW/JD Application Deadlines
JD — Faculty of Law: November 1
MSW — Faculty of Graduate Studies: January 15
The Integrated Master of Business Administration/Juris Doctor (MBA/JD) Program
MBA/JD Overview
For admission to the MBA/JD program, you must meet the admission requirements of both the MBA and JD programs. Therefore, you must submit separate applications to the Faculty of Law and the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research for admission to the regular degree program in Law and the MBA.
To facilitate academic and career planning, it is strongly suggested that you make these applications simultaneously. If you are accepted to both the MBA and JD programs, you will be accepted to the integrated program and will proceed to attend first year in either faculty of your choice. You will be granted a deferred admission to the other faculty in the program.
This special deferred admission will be revoked if your performance in the first program fails to meet the first-year academic standards of the program. In such a case, you may re-apply for regular admission to the second-degree program.
If you are attending the first year of either the JD or MBA program, your application will also be considered. You must meet the admission requirements and application deadline for the program you are seeking entry for.
MBA/JD Application Deadlines
JD — Faculty of Law: November 1
MBA — Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research: April 1 (international applicants), July 1 (domestic applicants)
Admission Requirements and Supporting Documents
The Admissions Committee establishes the admission policy and criteria, as well as procedures for the application assessments. The Committee consists of:
- the Associate Dean (Academic) as Chair,
- the Assistant Dean (Admissions, Recruitment and External Relations) as Vice Chair,
- professors and
- students.
You must follow the procedures and submit the documentation required for the year you wish to enter in.
Objective
The admission policy objective is to select those students who will excel in the study of law and who have the potential to contribute creatively and meaningfully to the law school and the community.
Criteria
The Admissions Committee considers most applicants in the framework of the following criteria:
- University Program
Your undergraduate average and academic performance trends, awards and/or distinctions, the nature and content of the program taken, and the level of any degree(s) or diplomas obtained are considered. - Work Experience
Your part-time, summer and full-time work experience is analyzed for signs of organizational and administrative skills as well as initiative. Vocational, professional or other special qualifications will be considered. - Community Involvement
Contribution to the community (city/town, university, religious, etc.) will be assessed for indications of commitment to the community. Factors examined include the nature of your participation in service clubs, community service organizations and religious, athletic and social organizations. - Personal Accomplishments
Personal accomplishments are considered. Factors can include extracurricular activities, hobbies and special accomplishments, artistic and athletic accomplishments, and communication skills and languages spoken. - Career Objectives
Your career objectives are considered, including how and where your legal education will be employed. - Personal Considerations
Any personal factors, such as illness, bereavement, unusual family responsibilities or other such circumstances that may have some bearing on your qualifications, are noted. - LSAT Scores
The LSAT is required. For detailed information and registration dates, visit Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
You do not need to apply to the Faculty of Law prior to registering for an LSAT.
The last LSAT scores Windsor Law will accept are:
- the January LSAT in the year of application for the JD program(s) and
- the April LSAT in the year of application for the Dual JD Program.
However, you are highly encouraged to write the LSAT by November 2023. We will take into consideration the highest result as reported by the LSAC. We make offers of admission on a rolling basis.
We will not consider LSAT scores written more than 5 years prior to the academic year of application.
Personal Statement
No one factor determines admission to Windsor Law. The Admissions Committee assesses applications based on the stated criteria. The primary source of information about you is that which you provide in your Personal Statement. Take care to present a full and rounded view of yourself in your Personal Statement.
The application and the Personal Statement were developed to provide you with the opportunity to assemble a persuasive case for admission.
Your Personal Statement is made up of your responses to 5 questions (4 required and 1 optional), which you can find in the School Submissions section of your OLSAS application.
Admissions Committee members will evaluate your responses to these questions to determine:
- whether you are likely to succeed in law studies;
- if you have social skills and relate well to people;
- if you have talent for administration and organization (particularly of your own time);
- if you have a well-developed and focused career plan based on a sound perception of your capabilities; and
- if you display leadership qualities and writing skills.
In your application, you are expected to identify significant experiences and accomplishments and indicate how they relate to the admission criteria.
For example, you should describe particular experiences (work, cultural, sporting and academic) in sufficient detail to allow the evaluators to make an assessment.
You should describe any experience that demonstrates that you are self-disciplined and committed to excellence in any field.
Committee members are interested in those experiences that show that you are devoted to self-improvement, involvement in the community and service to others.
Contributions to the following help demonstrate this:
- hospitals,
- charitable organizations,
- religious institutions,
- disadvantaged and underprivileged groups and individuals and
- political parties and athletics, among other activities.
If you are a member of a group that is disadvantaged for any reason, these circumstances should be made known to the Admissions Committee.
Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
A current, official LSAT score is required (LSAT scores written in the previous 5 years). LSAT scores from June 2019 to January 2024 are accepted. We will not consider LSAT scores written more than 5 years prior to the academic year of application.
You do not need to apply to the Faculty of Law prior to registering for an LSAT.
The last LSAT scores Windsor Law will accept are:
- the January LSAT in the year of application for the JD program(s) and
- the April LSAT in the year of application for the Dual JD Program.
However, you are highly encouraged to write the LSAT by November 2023. We will take into consideration the highest result as reported by the LSAC. We make offers of admission on a rolling basis.
For detailed information and registration dates, visit Law School Admission Council (LSAC).
Application Procedures
All Ontario law schools use the common Ontario Law School Application Service (OLSAS).
The Admissions Committee evaluates applications for first-year admission on a continuous basis as the files are completed. All files must contain:
- OLSAS application
- University of Windsor Personal Statement (responses to questions in the School Submissions section of your application)
- All official transcripts
- The Dual JD Program requires the completion of an undergraduate degree by August 1, 2024.
- If you have received an offer of admission to the Dual JD Program, you must submit final official transcripts by August 1, 2024, unless you have just completed your degree.
- Current official LSAT score report; LSAT scores written in the previous 5 years
- 2 letters of reference (1 academic and 1 non-academic) on the forms specifically provided for this purpose
- You are required to submit 2 letters of reference.
- If you attended a postsecondary institution during the 3 years prior to the application, you are required to submit 1 academic reference and 1 non‑academic reference.
- If you did not, you may submit 2 non-academic references.
- Electronic reference forms are provided by, and should be forwarded directly to, OLSAS by the referee
- Dual JD Program Supplemental Application Form (if applicable)
Application Deadlines
- JD Program: November 1, 2023.
- Canadian & American Dual JD Program: April 15, 2024.
Late Applications
OLSAS applications are due to the OUAC by the specified deadlines. You may request an extended deadline by email. Address your request to the Chair, Admissions Committee, Faculty of Law, University of Windsor.
You must state your reasons for failing to meet the original deadline.
It is your responsibility to ensure that your application materials and supporting documents are submitted. We will not consider incomplete applications.
Admission Categories
At Windsor Law, your application for admission is reviewed through a holistic lens. As a candidate, you may provide the Admissions Committee with a range of information that supports your application for entry.
There are 2 categories for admission into first year:
General
A minimum of 3 years of full-time (or equivalent) postsecondary study is preferred, while most successful applicants have completed a 4-year undergraduate degree.
Indigenous
We recognize that Indigenous applicants are not adequately represented within the legal profession. Our admission policy encourages Indigenous applicants to pursue legal studies.
If you wish to be considered under this policy, rather than under general admission criteria, you must apply to Windsor Law in accordance with the admission and application procedures.
We encourage you to show your connection to your community when completing the Personal Statement questions.
If you are an Indigenous applicant and receive an acceptance to the Faculty of Law, you are required to complete the Indigenous Pre-Law Summer Program offered through Windsor Law in August.
Upper-year Applicants
The Faculty of Law welcomes upper-year applicants wishing to gain admission to people-centred, justice-seeking, equity-focused second- and/or third-year programming steeped in professional excellence.
Applications are reviewed as they are received throughout the year, with a general application deadline of May 1, 2024, for full consideration.
Applicants must demonstrate satisfaction of Windsor Law admission standards.
Where appropriate, the Admissions Committee may request a World Education Services (WES) academic record evaluation.
Transfer
The Faculty of Law welcomes second-year applicants to the JD program who have successfully completed the first year of a JD program at another common law school.
Preference will be given to applicants who have attended a Canadian or recognized accredited common law school.
You may be eligible for the JD degree from the University of Windsor upon successfully completing 2 years of academic work.
Advanced Standing
If you have attended a foreign law school for more than 1 year, you may apply for advanced standing in the JD program. This will normally require 2 years of full-time study in the JD program at Windsor Law.
You may be eligible for the JD degree from the University of Windsor upon successfully completing 2 years of academic work.
Letter of Permission (LOP)
The Faculty of Law welcomes visiting students from other law schools wishing to gain admission to a people-centred, justice-seeking, equity-focused program of study for up to 1 year.
Certificate of Equivalence (NCA)
If you have completed your law degree at a foreign law school and/or are qualified to practice in a foreign jurisdiction, Windsor Law welcomes you to apply for a Certificate of Equivalence from the National Committee on Accreditation (NCA), which may be acceptable to some Law Societies in Canada.
The Faculty of Law welcomes you to apply for admission to the program of study for less than 2 years of study if recommended by the NCA.
No degree is granted by the University of Windsor.
Applicants are required to submit the NCA Assessment Result letter or the report from the NCA. You may obtain information by contacting the NCA:
National Committee on Accreditation
Federation of Law Societies of Canada
World Exchange Plaza
1810-45 O’Connor Street
Ottawa ON K1P 1A4
Telephone: 613-236-7250, ext. 229
Email: nca@flsc.ca
Deadline for Upper-year Applications
If your transcript for the current academic year is not available before the May 1, 2024, deadline, you must ensure your transcript is provided as soon as it is available. In extraordinary circumstances, conditional offers of admission may be possible pending receipt of official transcripts.
Admission Information
Fee Waivers
You may request a fee waiver for the Windsor Law portion of the application fee. Requests will be assessed using a fee waiver application form obtained directly from Windsor Law.
The basic criterion for granting a fee waiver is the absolute inability to pay for the service.
The deadline for submitting a fee waiver application and supporting documentation is October 25, 2023, (for first-year applicants).
Deferral of Admission
Requests for a 1-year deferral of admission will be considered on an individual basis after you are admitted. Submit written requests, with supporting documentation, to the Associate Dean (Academic).
We grant deferrals in exceptional circumstances only, typically when a situation arises that you could not have reasonably anticipated when you applied.
If we grant you a deferral, you must firmly accept your offer of admission and not apply to any other law schools in the next application cycle.
Additional Information
Admission to the Practice of Law
A law degree does not in itself entitle one to practice law. If you propose to enter the practice of law in any province or territory of Canada, you must consult directly with the Law Society of such province or territory to determine its admission requirements.
The Law Society of Ontario, in prescribing the conditions for admission to the practice of law in Ontario, requires that you graduate from an approved course of no less than 3 years leading to the JD degree in an approved law school.
The law program at the Faculty of Law, University of Windsor, has been approved by the Law Society of Ontario and the Federation of Law Societies of Canada. Students graduating with the JD degree, who otherwise meet the Law Society of Ontario’s requirements, are eligible for admission to membership in the Law Society of Ontario and for entrance to the Licensing Process.
Clinical and Experiential Learning
We have many work-integrated, place-based, clinical and experiential learning opportunities for students. Our programs place you in many work and volunteer environments where you can learn more about law in action.
Students enroll in a clinic for academic credit. Our experiential learning curriculum includes the Clinic Law Practice Program, which sensitizes students to the various roles that lawyers perform as client counsellors, advocates, policymakers, legal scholars, and change-makers in and custodians of the legal system. Clinic placements include:
- Community Legal Aid (CLA)
- Legal Assistance of Windsor (LAW)
- Community Legal Assistance Sarnia (CLAS)
Visit Windsor Law’s Clinical and Experiential Learning Programs for a complete list and details, including the following programs that are available to second- and third-year law student:
Study Exchanges
We have developed a broad range of student exchange partnerships with other universities around the world for our students. If you are currently attending 1 of our partner institutions, we invite you to apply for an exchange through their exchange office.
Volunteering
Students can gain real-world experience through many volunteering opportunities, such as:
- Community Legal Aid
- Pro Bono Students Canada
- The Windsor Review of Legal and Social Issues (a student run, peer-reviewed journal)
- Justice at Work
- The Peer Mentorship Program (PMP)
- The Student Law Society (SLS)
- Various other student groups and clubs Learn more about the program and application information.
False or Misleading Information
Providing false or misleading information or failure to provide material information will invalidate your application and will result in immediate rejection or in the revocation of an offer of admission and/or registration.
Tuition, Scholarships and Financial Aid
Tuition
Information regarding approximations of tuition can be found by visiting our Fee Estimator website.
Financial Aid
Windsor Law has a generous scholarship and bursary program that assists students with financial need. In addition, we offer many awards that recognize students who demonstrate good citizenship and academic excellence. Although students are automatically considered for some awards, other awards may require an application.
At Windsor Law, we recognize the financial challenges that many students face when pursuing a legal education and we are here to support you through this process. We are committed to further enhancing needs-based scholarships and awards, so the financial aid program remains strong and responsive to students’ needs.
Annually, Windsor Law awards approximately 350 students with scholarships and bursaries between $500 and $17,500.
Some Indigenous students are sponsored and/or have their tuition paid by their First Nations Education Authority. You are advised to contact the Authority and the Cashier’s Office at the university. The Cashier’s Office will then contact the First Nations Education Authority and arrange to have your tuition paid.
We have partnered with Scotiabank to offer enhancements to their Scotia Professional Student Plan, including increased borrowing limits and preferential repayment terms. We encourage you to speak with a Professional Banking Advisor to determine how this program can help you fund your legal education at Windsor Law by calling: 519-973-5397.
Government and Student Loans
Both the federal and provincial governments provide student financial assistance for Canadian citizens and permanent residents or landed immigrants studying at the postsecondary level.
Financial assistance is in the form of an interest-free loan while you are a full-time student. If you live in Ontario, you should apply to the Ontario Student Assistance Program (OSAP).
If you live in another province, you should obtain financial aid information by contacting the appropriate government office in your province.
Contact Information
Information About Applications
Office of the Registrar – Law Admissions
University of Windsor
401 Sunset Avenue
Windsor ON N9B 3P4
Telephone: 519-253-3000, ext. 6459, 6460, 6461, 6462 or 6473
Email: lawadmit@uwindsor.ca