The LSATThe Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a
standardized test of reading comprehension as well as analytical and logical reasoning
skills. All American Bar Association approved
law schools require candidates to take
the LSAT. Law schools use the LSAT score as one of several factors in assessing
applicants.
The LSAT
is administered four times each year. During the 2012-2013 academic year, the test will be offered
on June 11, October 6, December 1, and February 9. For more information on LSAT dates and deadlines, visit the Law School Admission Council website. Register for the LSAT well in advance
of the date you wish to take it to secure your test site. Most law schools will
accept scores for up to five years.
The most recent version of the
LSAT consists of five 35-minute sections of multiple-choice questions. Four of
the five sections contribute to the LSAT score, while one unscored section is
used to pretest new questions. The placement of the unscored section
varies and will not be disclosed at the time of the test. Test takers should
not worry about the unscored section on test day, and should put their best
effort into all questions. In addition, there is a 35-minute writing sample at the end of the LSAT. While the writing sample is not calculated in your overall score, the writing sample is included in your law school report and law school admissions officers read the writing sample. Your
LSAT score is based on the number of questions answered correctly. There is no
deduction for incorrect answers, nor are individual questions on the various
test sections weighted differently. Scores range from
120 to 180, with 120 being the lowest possible score and 180 the highest.
To register for the LSAT, you need to create a LSAC account.
The registration fee for the LSAT is $160. Students with extreme financial need can
apply for a fee waiver for LSAC and for the LSAT. LSAC recommends that you submit your completed fee
waiver application at least six weeks prior to the regular registration
deadline for a particular LSAT.
Preparing for
the LSAT
Gaining
entrance to law school is a competitive process and we recommend that students
leave ample time to prepare for the LSAT. Most law school applicants
familiarize themselves with test directions and question types, practice on
sample tests, and study the information available on test-taking techniques and
strategies. Our recommendation is to take several full-length practice tests so
that you know what to expect on test day, and can identify areas that need
improvement. Strive to do your very best the first time so the score
reflects your true ability.
Retaking the
LSAT and Cancellations
You may not take the LSAT more than three times within any two-year
period. We recommend, if possible, the LSAT to be taken only
once. Studies suggest that the scores for repeat test takers usually rise
slightly. In the case that an illness or extenuating circumstances caused you to
perform poorly the first time, it may be worth retaking the test; however
most students only take the test once. You have within six calendar days of the test
date to request that your scores be canceled. If you cancel your score, this
will be reported to law schools.