To help achieve diversity in the classroom, during the summer the University of Memphis School of Law operates the Tennessee Institute for Pre-Law (TIP) program. The TIP program is for Tennessee residents (and Border County residents at the University of Memphis School of Law) who are not admitted through the regular admissions process, but who show potential for the study of law and bring diversity to the class. TIP seeks to matriculate students from diverse backgrounds and circumstances who are capable of successfully participating in law school curricular and co-curricular programs.

Applicants who are admitted into TIP and successfully complete the summer program will be eligible for admission in the fall semester to the University of Memphis School of Law.

Applicants interested in being considered for TIP and admission to the University of Memphis must complete and submit the University of Memphis School of Law Application for Admission, the TIP portion of the application for Admission, and the required TIP supplemental statement by March 1. The TIP portion of the application requests information on whether a student is a first-generation college graduate, foreign-born, or a first-generation U.S. citizen; whether a student is a graduate of a historically minority undergraduate institution; whether a student has a disability; or whether a student is or was economically disadvantaged. The required TIP supplemental statement asks the student to describe the circumstances that qualify the student for participation in the program and the way in which the student might contribute to diversity in the law school.

TIP is only available to graduating college seniors or applicants who will have met the requirements for a baccalaureate degree prior to the program's commencement. Applicants who have previously earned a baccalaureate degree and are otherwise qualified to attend law school also may apply. The TIP program is a  five week program of classroom instruction that simulates the first-year law school curriculum. The program is held at the University of Memphis School of Law and begins June 29, 2012 with orientation.  Classes will begin July 2, 2012. The program will end July 31, 2012.

Application to TIP is optional and only available to Tennessee residents (and Border  County residents at the University of Memphis School of Law). Admission to TIP is competitive and only a limited number of seats are available.

Notification of the TIP decision will be made in mid to late May. Please contact the Director of TIP, Dean Yolanda Ingram, at (901) 678-2528 or email if you have any questions.