Vermont Law School offers an extended four-year enrollment option for the JD program. Applicants with family, work, or life circumstances that preclude them from enrolling in the full three-year program, now have the opportunity to take fewer credits per semester and graduate in four academic years.

Students in the four-year extended program take 10 credits per semester and are considered a first-year student for two years. Tuition is billed at 80% of the current tuition rate each year for all four years.

Scholarships are available for students who enroll in the extended program and receive 80% of their scholarship funding each year. There is no separate application to apply, all admitted candidates are considered for scholarship funding.

There is no standard class schedule as we work with each student individually to develop a schedule that fits their needs. Following the completion of the second year, students will receive a class rank and become eligible for law review and extra-mural competitions.

The extended program does not include summer classes, giving students the option of taking the summer off or enrolling in the joint degree program.

JD Degree Details

Frequently Asked Questions About the Extended Four-Year JD Program

What is the Extended JD Program? The Extended JD Program is a four-year enrollment option designed for individuals with family, work, or other life commitments that make the traditional three-year program challenging. This program allows students to take fewer credits per semester and graduate in four academic years.

How long does it take to complete the Extended JD? The program is structured to be completed over four academic years, with students attending classes during the fall and spring semesters.

What are the admission requirements for this program? Admission requirements for the Extended JD Program are consistent with those of the traditional JD program. Prospective students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and submit a completed application, including LSAT scores, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. For detailed admission requirements, please refer to the JD Admissions page.

What is the credit load for students in the Extended JD Program? Students in the Extended JD Program enroll in 10 credits per semester, which is fewer than the standard 15 credits per semester in the traditional three-year program.

Can I apply for scholarships for the Extended JD Program? Yes, scholarships are available for students in the Extended JD Program. Admitted candidates are automatically considered for scholarship funding, which is awarded at 80% of the scholarship amount each year.

How does the tuition work for the Extended JD Program? Tuition for the Extended JD Program is billed at 80% of the current tuition rate each year for all four years. For the most current tuition information, visit the Tuition and Financial Aid page.

Are summer courses available in the Extended JD Program? The Extended JD Program does not include summer classes. This structure allows students the option to take the summer off or enroll in a joint degree program.

Can I participate in law review or competitions? After completing the second year, students in the Extended JD Program receive a class rank and become eligible to participate in law review and extracurricular competitions.

How is the schedule structured for students in the Extended JD Program? There is no standard class schedule for the Extended JD Program. Each student’s schedule is developed individually to fit their needs, allowing for flexibility in course selection and timing.

Can I take time off during the program? The Extended JD Program is designed to accommodate students with various life commitments. While the program does not include summer classes, students have the option to take time off during the academic year if necessary, subject to academic policies and approval.