Lawson came up to Pembroke College from Bradfield College. He matriculated in 1893 and went on to gain a first in Parts I and II of the Classics Tripos. He was awarded his B.A. in 1896 and was awarded the Members' prize (Latin Essay) in 1897 and a Craven studentship in 1898 and 1899. He received his M.A. in 1900. He was Fellow at Pembroke College from 1899-1935. He was also Tutor. He was a University Junior Proctor in 1909 and Senior Proctor in 1912. He was the first College Praelector to bring his men to the Senate House in evening dress. During the First World War he served with the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, in the Naval Intelligence Branch.