How to Prepare for Law School in South Africa: A Step-by-Step Guide

If you're considering a law degree in South Africa, you might be feeling excited, anxious, and possibly a bit overwhelmed. Law school can be very rewarding intellectually, but it also requires a lot of hard work. The more ready you are before attending your first class, the better your experience will be. 

Whether you're a high school student thinking about your future or are already applying to universities, this guide will help you get ready for law school in South Africa. 

📚 Academic Preparation 

1. Build a Strong Academic Foundation 

To get into a good law program in South Africa, you need a strong academic record. Focus on: 

English: Good reading and writing skills are crucial for understanding legal texts and creating legal arguments. 

Subjects like History, Politics, Economics, and Mathematics: These subjects can improve your analytical thinking, give you useful background for legal studies, and demonstrate to universities that you can handle tough material. 

2. Research Law Schools & Their Requirements 

Not all law schools are alike. Each university has its own requirements, so: 

Check the official websites of universities that offer LLB degrees. 

Look at the APS score requirements and subject combinations they ask for. 

Find out if they need the National Benchmark Test (NBT) or other documents like motivation letters or references. 

3. Prepare for Entrance Exams (if needed) 

Some schools may ask for standardized tests like the NBT. Practice with past papers or use online resources to get used to the format and boost your performance. 

✍️ Develop Key Skills Before Law School 

Law school isn't just about memorizing information—it's about using what you know. Developing these skills before you start can make a big difference: 

1. Writing Skills 

Being able to write clearly and convincingly is essential in legal studies. Begin practicing: 

Essays 

Opinion pieces 

Case Summaries (if you can find examples) 

1. Reading and Comprehension 

Legal documents can be lengthy and complicated. To boost your understanding, read: 

- News articles 
- Court decisions (search for summaries online) 
- Academic papers 



2. Critical Thinking & Legal Analysis 

You'll need to analyze cases, identify legal principles, and build strong arguments. Start by: 

- Joining debate clubs 
- Solving logic puzzles or quizzes 
- Practicing structured argument writing exercises 


3. Research Skills 

Even in your first year, knowing how to conduct legal research is crucial. Learn how to: 

- Use online databases like JSTOR or Google Scholar 
- Properly reference sources (get familiar with legal citation formats) 



4. Time Management 

Law school moves quickly and has many deadlines. Learn how to: 

- Make a study schedule 
- Use time management tools like Notion, Trello, or Google Calendar 
- Break big tasks into smaller goals using the Pomodoro Technique 


5. Public Speaking and Communication 

As a future lawyer, you'll need to speak confidently and present arguments effectively. Practice by: 

- Joining a public speaking club 
- Taking part in debates or school assemblies 
- Recording yourself discussing a topic 



⚖️ Gain Experience and Exposure to the Legal Field 

1. Legal Internships or Job Shadowing 

If you can, spend time in a legal setting. Observing at a magistrate’s court or volunteering at a legal aid clinic can provide valuable insights into the profession. 

2. Moot Court or Mock Trial Participation 

Many schools and youth programs offer mock trial opportunities. These help you develop legal reasoning and advocacy skills before entering university. 

3. Attend Legal Events and Webinars 

Many law schools and organizations host open days, webinars, or panel discussions. These events are excellent for: 

- Learning more about careers in law 
- Connecting with law students and professionals 
- Asking questions about what it's like in law school 


🧠 Mental and Emotional Preparation 

Law school can be challenging not only academically but also emotionally. It’s crucial to get yourself mentally ready. 

Build resilience: Find ways to cope with stress and setbacks in your studies. 

Stay informed: Keep up with legal news and current events in South Africa to stay connected to the legal field. 

Start a journal: Writing about your motivations and goals can help you stay focused when things become difficult. 

🗣️ Get Ready for Law School Interviews 

If your selected school requires an interview, practice answering questions such as: 

Why do you want to study law? 

What legal topics are you interested in? 

How do you manage stress and meet deadlines? 

Think about doing mock interviews with friends, teachers, or mentors. 

Final Thoughts 

Getting ready for law school in South Africa involves more than just achieving good grades — it needs focus, commitment, and a proactive attitude. By building the right academic skills, gaining legal experiences, and mentally preparing for what lies ahead, you can start your LLB degree confidently and clearly. 

Keep in mind that the aim isn’t to be flawless from the start — it’s to be ready and open to learning. 

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