So you’ve decided to apply to law school. Congratulations! Whether you’re applying straight out of undergrad, after a few years in the workforce, or even after a different postgraduate degree, this is a big, career-changing move, and it can feel overwhelming. In particular, getting ready to take the LSAT, especially if it’s been a while since you’ve taken a standardized test, can feel like a challenge. Here are some things to keep in mind as you begin your law school application and LSAT prep process:
What is the LSAT?
LSAT stands for Law School Admission Test—it’s the standardized test required for applications to all ABA-accredited law schools in the United States. The test has two sections: a multiple-choice portion, which includes sections on reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning, and a writing section. If you retake the LSAT, you’re only required to retake the multiple-choice section. Through 2022, the LSAT may be taken either remotely online or at a testing center.
How Important Is My LSAT Score?
Your LSAT score is a big deal. Since law school applicants can have such varied work histories and undergraduate careers, LSAT score ranges, along with undergraduate GPA, are ways for law schools to “even the playing field” when they’re comparing applicants. But don’t let that put you off—knowing what’s expected of you on the LSAT and giving yourself time to prepare for it can ensure that this vital part of your application shines!
When Should I Take the LSAT?
There are multiple LSAT test dates in any given year. Experts recommend that you take your LSAT at least one calendar year before you would be starting at law school. If you think you might want to take the LSAT more than once, consider taking it in June the year before you would start law school—then, if you do want to retake it, you can sit again in the autumn after some extra preparation.
How Can I Study for the LSAT?
Good news—there are many ways to study for the LSAT! From LSAT practice tests, to books of sample questions, to online prep advice, there’s no shortage of material to help you study for the LSAT. Be sure to take a full LSAT practice test at least once before test day, preferably more than one, and learn your strengths and weaknesses on the test. To ensure you’re working harder and smarter, you might also consider a prep coach, like our experts at A-List, who can make certain you’re optimizing your study time in the lead-up to test day!
As daunting as the LSAT can seem, it’s nothing you should be afraid of—if you give yourself time to prepare, and take advantage of the tools at your disposal, the LSAT is your first stop on the road to law school success!
Contact us to speak with one of our LSAT prep experts!