Studying for the LSAT

What is the LSAT?

The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is an important part of the law school process. The LSAT is a standardized test, graded on a 120 - 180 standard, that is required by most law schools. The test is intended to evaluate the applicant’s skills necessary to perform successfully within a first year law school program. The LSAT consists of two parts: multiple choice and a writing essay. The multiple choice section includes sections on logical reasoning, analytical reasoning and reading comprehension. The various parts of the exam, as explained by the Law School Admissions Council, are designed to test skills including “reading comprehension, reasoning, and writing.” The test is supposed to help admission decision makers and candidates alike gain valuable insight as to law school readiness.” All ABA-accredited law schools accept the LSAT exam.

Numerous ABA-accredited law schools have started to accept the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) in lieu of the LSAT (check https://www.ets.org/gre/revised_general/about/law/ for schools that accept the GRE).

The ETS has prepared Test Preparation Modules to help prepare for the GRE along with this flyer that gives an overview of GRE prep resources.

PowerPrep Online is a free full-length test simulation, which is a great way to prepare for the GRE and get a feel for what the test questions are like.

There are also pre-recorded GRE Test Prep modules available for free.

GRE Prep Club is also a useful and free resource for students. They have an extensive question bank, sorted by difficulty level and problem type for ease of searching and practicing. Students also have the ability to time themselves, which then creates an “error log” to track which questions they got right and wrong so that they can go back and practice them again.

When can I take the LSAT?

The LSAT is offered several times a year. Upcoming test dates can be found on the LSAC website at https://www.lsac.org/lsat/lsat-dates-deadlines-score-release-dates.

Make sure you familiarize yourself with the admissions deadlines for the law schools you intend to apply to. Each law school has different requirements as to when it needs to receive the LSAT score. Some schools mandate an earlier submission of the LSAT score for scholarship consideration.

You need to register for the LSAT on the LSAC website at least 4-5 weeks before the scheduled exam. Be aware that test sites can fill up, so it is always a good idea to register early. Please review our info sheet “All about the LSAC” for more info on LSAC.org and registering for the LSAT.

Please note that because of COVID-19, all LSAT exams will take place online through June, 2022.

How can I study for the LSAT?

There are numerous ways to prepare for the LSAT.

Develop a Plan:

As with other parts of the application process, you need to plan ahead. You do not want to cram for the LSAT. Rather, you want to carefully decide when you would like to take the exam and study appropriately. Work backwards, leaving time to study and take the exam. You should start studying at least four months prior to your scheduled exam.

If you are still an undergraduate, it is recommended that you take the test in June or July after your junior year. This will allow you time to receive your score and prepare applications for submission during the fall semester. Treat studying like a class, dedicating a certain day and time to study each week.

Independent Study/ Practice Tests:

It is imperative to become familiar with the exam. Free practice tests are available on the LSAC website and through Khan Academy. Test prep books can also be purchased through book stores and online shopping; these can be a good way to get familiar with the test and to diagnose your strengths and weaknesses. Taking a timed test can simulate the LSAT experience and provide much needed preparation. It can also help identify your strengths, as well as any areas in which you need to improve and work on. If you take a full practice test, you should make sure you follow the actual LSAT procedures and timing restrictions; try to imitate test conditions as much as possible. Taking the LSAT is about endurance as well as knowledge and test-taking skills!

LSAT Courses:

There are many LSAT prep courses to choose from. Do your research to make sure that the course chosen is the right one for you. Think about the following when selecting the LSAT prep course: 1) how do you learn best (in person/ online); 2) what is your budget; 3) do you have any time constraints; 4) when is the course offered; 5) can you take a free trial session?

LSAT courses can be expensive - as much as several thousand dollars. But they do give a structured way to get ready for the exam. Other options include private tutors and studying on your own. Keep in mind that you will probably be investing thousands of dollars in your law school education and getting even a few points higher on your LSAT can sometimes impact where you go to school, what scholarships are available, and your career options coming out of law school.

However you study, make sure it is a priority and develop a method and schedule that works best for your learning style and available time.

Although we do not endorse any of the following programs, here are some courses offered:

Blueprint LSAT Prep
Kaplan Test Prep
LSATMax
Manhattan Prep
Princeton Review
PowerScore
7Sage
TestMasters

Finally, it’s a good idea to talk to recent FDU graduates who have taken the LSAT to get their tips and tricks. You can check our online alumni database or talk to the Pre-law advising team to get some names and the contact info for these students.

How long are LSAT scores good for?

An LSAT score is good for 5 years.

Can I take the LSAT more than once?

Ideally, you will only have to take the test once; however, if you are unhappy with your first score and confident you can improve, you may want to take the LSAT again. Schools will see every time you take the LSAT so it is important that if you do take the test multiple times, you demonstrate improvement.

Keep in mind that you are only permitted to take the LSAT three times in a single testing year, five times in five testing years, and seven times in your lifetime.

Can I cancel a score?

If you take the LSAT but think you had a bad day you can cancel your score. Once you decide to cancel your decision is irreversible, and once your score is released it becomes a permanent part of your record. Law schools will be informed if you cancel a test score. Should you decide to cancel your LSAT score, you must do so within six (6) calendar days after your test date. Check out the LSAT Score Preview option, which gives first-time test takers the option to see their LSAT score before deciding whether to keep it and have it reported to law schools.

Any other suggestions?

Make a schedule and stick to it.

Start your study schedule several months before you plan to take the test.

Get comfortable with the test.

Take timed tests.

Be honest with yourself about your likely score and what you need to do to improve it.