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The LSAT Test: What Is the LSAT?
So, you’ve decided you want to go to law school. You know you’re going to have to fill out some applications, and you’ve also heard of this test called the LSAT. But what is the LSAT? I’ll let you know with this information about the LSAT test.
What Is the LSAT?
The LSAT is the Law School Admissions Test. It’s the standardized test that law schools use to gauge you as a candidate for admissions and scholarships.
The test doesn’t ask you questions about law, current events, or about the U.S. Court System. You don’t have to “know” anything for this test.
Instead, the LSAT tests you on your abilities in logic and reading. These are the skills that law schools have determined to be the best indications of a student’s aptitude as a legal scholar and future attorney.
The test is 6 sections that are 35 minutes each (unless you’ve received special accommodations) with a 15-minute break in-between the 3rd and 4th sections.
Five of these sections are multiple-choice, and one is an essay question. You can learn more in my detailed explanation of the sections on the LSAT.
When Is the LSAT?
There are only 2 currently available dates to register to take the LSAT: January 26, 2019, and March 30, 2019.
However, more LSAT dates will be available in the future. Typically, the LSAT is available around 6 times a year, but with recent changes to testing procedure, that is likely to change.
Where Is the LSAT?
The LSAT is administered in cities across the country, and some major cities throughout the world. Usually, the test is given at a university, but different locations sometimes use hotels as well.
To find the testing location nearest you, you must create an account on LSAC.org, log onto the account, and select the testing date you’re interested in. You can find a list of LSAT test centers on the site.
How Do You Register for the LSAT Test?
There are two ways to register for the LSAT. You can call them directly (215.968.100) or you can do it online.
To register for the LSAT online, you must first create an LSAC.org account.
The cost of registering for the LSAT is $180. This amount can be refunded up to two weeks prior to the test date, and can also be moved to other available locations before that date.
Does Everyone Study for the LSAT Exam?
No. There are many students who take the LSAT with no preparation at all, what we experts call a “cold take.” However, the students tend to vastly underperform compared to their studied peers. And, with the weight law school’s put on applicant’s LSAT scores, that can be a huge mistake.
We recommend students take the free 2007 LSAT available on LSAC.org to see where their skills start. This is their diagnostic score and will give students an idea of their potential. Take that initial score and add 10-15 points. That’s how high you can expect to score after thorough preparation.
Should CPAs Take the LSAT?
That’s a great question! However, the answer is a little too long for this post, so we have an entire post decidated to the issue of whether CPAs should take the LSAT!
Where Can I Find More Information about the LSAT Test?
So, that’s a brief introduction to the LSAT test.
If you’re planning on going to law school and taking the LSAT exam, you’ll need to do a lot more research on both topics to be prepared. I encourage you to learn more about the top law schools, get help with law school admissions, and discover your LSAT prep options.
You should also sign up for my LSAT newsletter so you can get great information and free advice!
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About the Author John Wilson Booth
John Wilson Booth grew up in Alabama and attended the University of Alabama. He moved to Salt Lake City after graduation and began studying for the LSAT. His cold diagnostic score was a 154 and he self-studied to a 171. Now, he works as a writer as he decides which law school to attend.
