LSAT FAQ

Before preparing for the test, it is important to have a bird’s-view of it. We have prepared this list of frequently asked questions (LSAT FAQs) to help you maximize your knowledge of all things pertinent to the LSAT.

What is the LSAT?

It is a standardized test that is required for admission to all American Bar Association-approved law schools, most Canadian law schools, and many other law schools.

When is the LSAT administered?

It is administered four times a year. The available test dates are in February, June, September/October, and December. The February test is nondisclosed, meaning that the questions and answers are not released after the test is given. Typically the February tests are not packaged as PrepTests, although it has happened a few times in the past. The other three administrations are disclosed. Upcoming LSAT test dates include the following:

How can I register for the test?

Create an account at www.lsac.org and follow the menus to register for the test.

How many times can I take the test?

You may take the test a total of three times during a two-year span. Should you need to take it a fourth time, you must have a law school contact LSAC on your behalf. Many retake the test a second or third time, but it is a good idea to plan to take the test only once.

Will law schools accept my highest score, or will they average my scores?

The answer to this question varies from school to school. Although each law school is only required to report the highest LSAT score for admitted students to US News and World Report, some may still average scores. To determine the policy of a particular school, consult the list of schools that average multiple LSAT scores.

What is the format of the test?

It is a half-day, six-section test comprised of four scored sections, an unscored experimental section, and a writing sample.

What kinds of questions are on the test?

The test features questions of three main varieties. Logical Reasoning tests your ability to critically dissect arguments and fact sets. Logic Games (officially referred to as Analytical Reasoning) tests your ability to take a number of conditions, constraints, and relationships and determine what can be, must be, and cannot be true under various hypothetical scenarios. Reading Comprehension tests your ability to quickly and accurately comprehend passages written in a dense, academic style.

What is the breakdown of the sections and their respective numbers of questions?

The following table illustrates the breakdown.

The first three sections are given back-to-back, followed by a ten to fifteen minute break. Traditionally, the experimental section has fallen within the first three sections. However, some test takers for the October 2011 administration have confirmed experimental placement within the last two multiple-choice sections. The five multiple-choice sections can be given in any order. Test forms between test takers are purposely varied, so that the section order of one person’s test differs from that of the test taker next to him or her. The Writing Sample is always administered as the sixth section.

How is the LSAT scored?

It is scored on a scale of 120–180, 180 being the highest possible score. Each question is worth one raw point, and guesses are not penalized. To see how raw scores convert to scaled scores for different PrepTests, visit the LSAT score conversion page. The test is equated to account for variations in difficulty, and each scaled score corresponds to a particular percentile (calculated over a three-year range). Typically, the 50th percentile corresponds to a score that is above and close to 150.

How is the curve determined?

The answer to this question is widely debated. LSAC uses unscored experimental sections (referred to as variable sections) and equating procedures to pre-determine the curve for each test. This process ensures that a particular scaled score has the same significance for every test. LSAC may make adjustments to the curve between the date of administration and the date on which scores are released for that particular test. In terms of percentile, test takers are stacked up against all other test takers within a three-year period.

When and how will I receive my score?

Scores are typically e-mailed to test takers around three weeks following the test. Visit our score release dates page for specific historical data. With the exception of the February test, test takers have access to an electronic copy of the questions and answers for six months.

For how long is my LSAT score valid?

LSAT scores from within the last five years will be reported when you apply to law schools. You can request score reports older than five years by contacting LSAC directly.

What is the best way to prepare for the LSAT?

This is a multi-faceted question, and the answer will vary from person to person. As every individual has a unique learning style, he or she must first make a determination of whether or not to take a prep course. Within this realm, there are traditional classroom courses and online courses. Potential benefits of prep courses include exposure to large quantities of real LSAT questions, often organized by type, structured homework to promote mastery of concepts, and the dynamic that accompanies group learning. Potential drawbacks include the cost involved and time spent in class. With so many resources currently available for LSAT prep, many opt to self prep using guides and actual LSAT questions/PrepTests. Cambridge LSAT is your exclusive source to purchase and download LSAT content directly through the web. Here, you can purchase tests and groupings of questions in the combination that fits your budget and study plan.

Where can I find out about misconduct and irregularities?

http://www.lsac.org/JD/apply/misconduct-and-irregularities.asp

If I decide to take a course, which company should I select?

There are many different options when it comes to LSAT prep courses. In evaluating the various company offerings, make sure of two things:

1. The course uses real LSAT questions taken from actual PrepTests (previously administered tests).
2. You are able to attend a free trial session to gauge the quality of instruction.

We recommend Manhattan LSAT. In addition to meeting the above requirements, Manhattan LSAT employs teachers of the highest caliber and pays them one of the most competitive wages in the industry. Scoring in the 99th percentile is not sufficient to teach for Manhattan LSAT, but it is necessary. Potential candidates must successfully navigate a challenging hiring process, and must undergo intensive training prior to teaching their first Manhattan LSAT class. Manhattan LSAT offers classes both online and in-person, including full-length and Logic Games intensive review courses. Use the coupon code CAMBRIDGELSAT2013 to receive 10% off any of their courses!