What is the LSAT?
The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized exam used by law schools to assess skills fundamental to legal study. Developed by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), the LSAT is available in-person at test centers or can be taken remotely.
- Purpose: Predicts a candidate’s potential for first-year law school success.
- Format:
- Four multiple-choice sections:
- Two scored Logical Reasoning sections
- One scored Reading Comprehension section
- One unscored "experimental" section (either Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension). This section is used by LSAC to test new questions for future exams, but will be indistinguishable from scored sections during your test.
- Plus a 50-minute, unscored writing sample (schools receive a copy).
- Four multiple-choice sections:
- Scoring: 120–180 scale.
When Should I Take the LSAT?
- The LSAT is offered several times each academic year.
- If you wish to attend law school immediately after graduation, it’s recommended to take the LSAT by the summer before your senior year so you can:
- Apply early in the cycle (important for rolling admissions)
- Retest, if needed, before deadlines
- Late test dates (fall/winter) are possible but may delay your application at some schools.
- February LSAT scores are less likely to be accepted for immediate fall matriculation, but may be considered for waitlisted or late applicants.
- If you plan to take time off before law school, check each school’s score validity policy—some accept scores up to three years old, others up to five.
How to Prepare
- Learn the test structure and question types.
- Practice building endurance for the timing and length of the exam.
- Consider starting LSAT review early in your undergraduate career, especially if you struggle with standardized tests.
- Enroll in college courses that build key skills: reading comprehension, logic, and critical analysis.
- While prep courses can be helpful, a disciplined self-study plan is equally important.
- Use high-quality, free or affordable preparation materials from LSAC LawHub before paying for more expensive options.
Requesting Accommodations
- Students needing accommodations (extra time, specialized equipment, etc.) may request them via LSAC.
- Begin the process early—ideally six months before your desired test date, as documentation reviews take time.
- See the most up-to-date requirements on the LSAC accommodations page.
Alternatives to the LSAT
- More law schools now accept the GRE, and a few accept the GMAT.
- However: If you sit for both the LSAT and an alternative exam, most schools will use your LSAT score.
- If any of your target schools require the LSAT, prioritize your LSAT prep and sitting for the exam.