General Information on the LSAT
The LSAT is a standardized test which measures reading comprehension as well as analytical and logical skills. The test is administered by the Law School Admission Council (which is abbreviated as LSAC) and official scores are be reported to prospective law schools by this organization. (See also the section on the LSDAS in Part III below). Scores on the exam range from 120 to 180. Most law schools have highly competitive standards for admission, basing acceptance on a formula which places the heaviest emphasis on LSAT performance.
Any person wishing to attend law school must take the LSAT. Admission to law school will be based largely upon the candidate’s performance on this particular test. While not all schools give equal weight to LSAT scores, for most institutions your score will be the single most important criteria for admission. In fact, some schools will not consider applications from students who do not have a predetermined, minimum score on the exam.
Scheduling the LSAT
The test should be taken at least one semester in advance of the application deadline. It is, however, recommended that you take the exam two semesters before you plan on attending law school. The test is administered four times a year (June, October, December, and February) and results are ready to be mailed a little over a month after the test date. The test is given at select locations and only early registration guarantees that you can register for the location most convenient for you. There is a fee for registration (currently $90.00) and extra charges for late registration or change of testing centers will be assessed. There is a fee waiver policy for students who can demonstrate financial need (check the LSAT registration booklet for eligibility requirements). Applications for this waiver are available in the History & Government Department.
The LSAT is strictly administered. The LSAT registration booklet explains the rules for registering and taking the exam as well as the policies for special accommodations. You may pick up an LSAT booklet at almost any college advisement or career development office or you may contact the LSAC at www.LSAC.org. Copies are also available through your law school website.
Repeating the LSAT
The LSAC has strict policies on the cancellation of test scores. Law schools will receive notice that the student has been exposed to the questions but that the score has been canceled at the student’s request. In the event you receive an unsatisfactory score, the test may be repeated, although currently, you cannot take the LSAT more than 3 times in a 2 year period.
However, initial scores will be reported along with any secondary scores and may be taken into account in admission decisions. (Law schools vary in the treatment of repeat scores; however, most elect to average the scores from the first and second LSAT).
