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ECLL > Emory Paralegal Certificate Program > Program Information > Frequently Asked Questions

Answers to Frequently Asked Questions about the Emory Paralegal Certificate Program

Is this Program ABA "Approved?"

Emory's Paralegal Certificate Program is not ABA approved, as is the case with paralegal programs at most other major universities. Approximately 250 out of 1,200 paralegal programs nationwide are ABA approved - and the majority of ABA-approved programs are offered by smaller community colleges and technical schools. The ABA approved programs in Georgia are offered by Athens Technical College (Athens), Clayton State University (Morrow), Gainesville State College (Gainesville) and South University (Savannah).

Does ABA "approval" matter?

The ABA does not formally “accredit” any paralegal program, but for a fee, the organization “approves” programs that meet certain standards. Most paralegal programs choose not to seek ABA “approval”. ABA “approval” is not a primary factor in most law firms’ decision to hire a paralegal. The reputation of the institution attended by the paralegal is often much more important. Of course, the academic reputation of Emory University speaks for itself! In addition, our program is the only paralegal certificate program in Georgia that requires students have a bachelor's degree prior to admission.

Will graduates be able to sit for the NFPA Pace exam and the NALA CLA exam?

The National Association of Legal Assistants (NALA) and the National Federation of Paralegal Associations (NFPA) offer (for a price) voluntary examinations. No state requires that a paralegal take an exam, and the majority of paralegals have chosen not to take either exam. NALA offers the CLA Examination, and NFPA offers the PACE Examination. If a student has a Bachelor's degree in any field and graduates from the Emory University Paralegal Program, that student qualifies to sit for the CLA and/or PACE examinations. Please note that the above organizations frequently alter their exams' requirements. Contact each association for the most current requirements to sit for those examinations.

What are the pre-requisites for Emory's Paralegal Program?

A 4-year undergraduate degree is required (no exceptions)
Basic computer and word-processing skills
Access to the internet (preferably high-speed)
An updated resume

Why a Certificate Program?

We understand that students have many choices in paralegal education. That is one of the strengths of the profession. The form of program a student takes usually depends on several factors, including:
Prior Educational Experience - Students who already possess a college degree are not likely to attend a two or four year paralegal program.
Prior Life Experience - Many paralegal certificate students have valuable real-world experience, but lack qualifications to be competitive for job opportunities.
Motivation - Students who take certificate programs must be motivated, since they are expected to gain knowledge and skills in a relatively short period of time.
Compensation - Graduates of certificate programs are best compensated.

Why are certificate program graduates paid more?

Attorneys are interested in paralegals who can perform specific law related tasks efficiently and accurately. They want, and are willing to pay for, paralegals who possess skills that make them and their firm more productive. As a general rule, attorneys don't care about the geometry, psychology, and other general study courses an employee has taken. They care about whether the employee can maintain a client file, whether an employee can conduct legal research, whether an employee can draft legal documents, and perform other relevant tasks. Paralegal Certificate programs offer training in the specific skills attorneys are looking for in their paralegal employees.

What are the TOEFL score requirements?

We recommend non-native English speakers have a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) score of at least 250 on the computer-based exam or 100 on the internet-based exam. These scores are recommended, but not required.

What is a passing score in each paralegal course?

Students must earn a a minimum of 75% in each course module. Class projects and exams will be administered. Participants must achieve a score of 80% or better in the program to earn the Emory Financial Planning Certificate.

What if I experience a difficult life event and am forced to withdraw from the Paralegal Program?

If you encounter a life event that might interrupt your participation in the Emory Paralegal Certificate Program, please discuss the matter immediately with a student advisor. In the past, we have been able to work with students to arrange for future participation in the program with no extra charge.

Do you accept the Hope Scholarship?

The majority of financial aid programs such as the Pell Grant, Stafford Loan, or the Hope Scholarship are only available to students attending credit courses which lead to a degree or other academic credential. Since the Emory Center for Lifelong Learning does not offer credit courses, we are unable to process these traditional forms of financial aid.

Do you offer financial assistance for military personnel?

Tuition assistance is available for eligible members of the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Marines who wish to attend the Emory Center for Lifelong Learning. For further information, please contact Doug Solomon at dsolom3@emory.edu.

Do you accept VA funding for training services?

The Emory Center for Lifelong Learning does not participate in the Veterans Educational Assistance Program (VEAP). Please contact us to find out more about your options.

Do I need to fill out the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)?

No, the FASFA is used only for degree programs.

Are continuing education loans available for non-credit classes?

Yes, loans are available through Sallie Mae Continuing Education Loan Program. If you are considering paying for your program with a Sallie Mae loan, please contact Georgia Davidson at gddavidson@emory.edu. Note: Some programs sell out weeks before the start date. If you plan to apply for a loan with Sallie Mae, begin your application early to allow adequate processing time.

Can I get a loan for the cost of books and supplies as well as tuition?

This varies from lender to lender, but Sallie Mae will allow you to borrow up to 60% over the cost of tuition to cover books, supplies, transportation and other costs.

My credit rating is not the greatest. Should I still try to get a loan?

Many lenders will be happy to loan you the money if you have a co-borrower who will sign your loan agreement. Be aware that the interest rate on the loan will vary according to your credit rating.

Can I start a class while I am waiting for my loan to be approved?

No, but we will be happy to charge your credit card for the cost of the class and refund the same card when the loan money arrives.

I have been laid off from my job. Are there other options available for me?

You may be eligible for short-term, skill-specific training for high-demand employment through Workforce Investment Act funding. For WIA information, visit the one-stop workforce center serving your area.

My employer offers tuition vouchers. Do you accept these vouchers?

Yes, we are happy to accept your tuition voucher and invoice your employer. The voucher must clearly give the name and address of the employer as well as the amount allowed for the class.