A number of law schools offer Early Decision application programs, giving prospective students the benefit of an expedited application review process in exchange for a commitment to attend that institution. But history has shown there are a number of potential downsides for applicants, as well as for the schools offering these programs.

Overall, less than 40% of American Bar Association-accredited law schools in the U.S. offer Early Decision applications. However, among the top 52 law schools (top 50, including ties), that number jumps to approximately 67%, according to various sources, including PowerScore Test Preparation’s  LSAT and Law School Admissions blog and Spivey Consulting’s blog.