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Fact files: LSAT
Our quick guide tells you all you need to know about the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
Law School Admission Test www.lsac.org/LSAT/about-the-lsat.asp
Duration
half a day, although allow a full day for getting to and from the test centre and sitting the test. The LSAT can only be taken at four times throughout the year (September, December, February, June).
What to bring
admission ticket, ID (passport or driver’s licence), three or four sharpened No. 2 or HB wooden pencils (mechanical pencils are not allowed). You need to have these in a clear plastic ziplock bag, which can also hold your wallet, keys, wristwatch, medical or hygiene products, tissues, a drink in a clear container and a snack.
Region
worldwide
Audience/Purpose
for students who are looking to gain admission into law school.
Scale
the LSAT score ranges from 120 being the lowest possible score, through to 180, the highest possible score. A candidate’s score is based on the number of questions answered correctly. There is no deduction for incorrect answers. This raw score is then converted to an LSAT scale (120-180).
Which institutions require it
many law schools require the LSAT be taken by December for admission the following fall. However, taking the test earlier, in June or September, is often advised.
Test content
five 35min sections of multiple-choice questions. Two sections are logical reasoning, one is reading and another is logical games. The fifth section, which does not contribute to your score is an experimental one and can be any of the three. This section is used to ensure the questions are fair for future LSAT test takers. A 35min writing sample is administered at the end of the test. The writing sample is not scored but copies are sent to all law schools of which the candidate wishes to apply to.
Cost
US$132, CAN$137
How long is it valid for
five years
Results
you’ll need to wait three to six weeks for your results. The higher your score the more competitive your application, but law schools will take your entire admission into account when considering your application.
Top tip from a candidate
do it right the first time! Only take the exam when you have the time to dedicate to studying for it. The LSAT is a huge time commitment if you want to do well.
Resources
sample questions and practice tests are available from www.lsac.org
