Thinking about going to law school, and wondering what it takes to get in? While things like your GPA matter, many would argue that the would-be law student’s most important portfolio piece is their score on the Law School Admission Test (AKA, the LSAT).
The idea of yet another standardized test can feel like a major hurdle, but trust me, understanding the LSAT is your first and most crucial step toward that law degree. And, with over 100,000 students taking the LSAT every year, there’s no shortage of competitors looking to take your spot at your dream law school.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything about the LSAT, from its core components to how law schools use your scores and, most importantly, how you can prepare to crush it.
Key Takeaways
- LSAT is a Skill-Based Exam: It measures critical thinking, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning, not legal knowledge.
- The Score Range is 120-180: Your raw score converts to a scaled score, and your percentile shows how you compare to other test takers.
- Preparation is Key: Use official LSAC materials and consider a test prep course or dedicated self-study to improve your score.
- Take it Digitally: The LSAT is primarily administered online from your own computer, but strict technical and environmental rules apply.
- Law Schools Look Holistically: While the LSAT is very important, law school admission also considers your undergraduate GPA, writing sample, and professional experience.
What Exactly is the LSAT?
At its core, the LSAT is a skill-based test that assesses your critical thinking, reading comprehension, and logical reasoning abilities. These are the very foundations upon which legal education is built.
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) develops and administers the LSAT. Most law schools, especially those approved by the American Bar Association (ABA), require you to take the LSAT as part of your law school admission application. While your undergraduate GPA is also a big piece of the puzzle, your LSAT scores often hold significant weight.
The latest big change came in August 2024, when the “Logic Games” section (officially called Analytical Reasoning) was removed. This means the LSAT exam now consists of more logical reasoning questions.
Diving Deep: What the LSAT Consists Of
The LSAT is made up of four scored sections of multiple-choice questions and one unscored variable section. You’ll also complete an LSAT argumentative writing sample, which is separate from the multiple-choice sections. Each multiple-choice section lasts 35 minutes.
Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll encounter on the LSAT test:
1. Logical Reasoning (Two Scored Sections)
You’ll be presented with short passages that contain an argument. This section tests your ability to identify assumptions, spot flaws in reasoning, strengthen or weaken arguments, and draw logical conclusions.
2. Reading Comprehension (One Scored Section)
This section is all about how well you understand and analyze complex texts. You’ll read several long passages and then answer multiple-choice questions that test your ability to:
- Identify the main idea.
- Understand the author’s purpose or tone.
- Find specific details.
- Make inferences.
3. Unscored Variable Section (One Unscored Section)
This section looks just like one of the scored sections, but it doesn’t count towards your final score. LSAC uses this unscored section to test out new LSAT questions for future exams. You won’t know which section is the unscored one during the test, so you have to give your best effort on all of them!
4. LSAT Argumentative Writing Sample
The writing sample is not scored on the same 120-180 scale. Instead, it’s sent directly to the law schools you apply to. You’ll be given a prompt that presents a decision-making scenario with two options, and you’ll have 35 minutes to write an argument for one option over the other. Law schools want to see your ability to:
- Formulate a clear argument.
- Support your position with reasons and evidence.
- Critique the alternative.
- Write clearly and concisely.
Here’s a quick overview of the current LSAT structure:
| LSAT Section | Number of Sections | Question Type | Time Per Section | Scored? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logical Reasoning | 2 | Multiple Choice | 35 minutes |  |
| Reading Comprehension | 1 | Multiple Choice | 35 minutes | |
| Unscored Variable Section | 1 | Multiple Choice | 35 minutes |  |
| Total Multiple-Choice | 4 | – | 140 minutes | – |
| LSAT Argumentative Writing | 1 | Essay | 35 minutes | |
Understanding Your LSAT Scores
Your LSAT scores are a key part of your law school admission package. Let’s break down how the grading system works.
Raw Scores to Scaled Scores
First, LSAC calculates your “raw score.” This is simply the total number of questions you answered correctly across all the scored multiple-choice sections. There’s no penalty for wrong answers, so it’s always a good idea to guess if you’re not sure!
Your raw score is then converted into a scaled score on a scale from 120 to 180. A 120 is the lowest possible score, and 180 is the highest LSAT score you can achieve.
Percentile Scores: How You Stack Up
Along with your scaled score, you’ll also receive a percentile score. This tells you how you performed compared to other LSAT takers over the past three years. For example, if you score in the 75th percentile, it means you scored better than 75% of other test takers.
153 was the median LSAT score between 2021 and 2024. However, a “good LSAT score” really depends on where you want to go to law school. For example, to get into an Ivy League law school, you’ll want to shoot for a 170 or higher.
Here’s a general idea of what different scaled scores often correspond to in terms of percentile:
| Scaled LSAT Score | Approximate Percentile |
|---|---|
| 180 | 99.9% |
| 175 | 99% |
| 170 | 97% |
| 165 | 90% |
| 160 | 78% |
| 155 | 60% |
| 151 (Average) | 42-50% |
| 145 | 25% |
| 130 | 5% |
| 120 | 0% |
Note: Percentiles can vary slightly from year to year.
How Law Schools Use Your Scores
Most law schools consider your highest LSAT score if you take the test multiple times. This is excellent news for test takers!
Admissions officers use your LSAT score alongside your undergraduate GPA, personal statement, and other relevant experience. They look at your application holistically, but the LSAT score is a significant indicator of your academic readiness. A higher score can also open doors for financial aid and scholarships.
Getting Ready: How to Prepare for the LSAT
Preparing for the LSAT exam isn’t like studying for a history test. It’s a skill-based test, so you can’t just cram facts. You need to develop specific ways of thinking and problem-solving.
Official Resources are Your Best Friends
The best place to start is with official LSAT practice tests. The LSAC website is your go-to source for this. They offer LSAT Prep Plus, which gives you access to a huge library of past LSAT exams. These are real test questions, so they’re the most accurate way to prepare. LSAC also offers free practice tests and sample questions, which are a great way to get a feel for the exam.
Choosing Your Prep Path: Self-Study vs. Test Prep Course
You’ve got a couple of main options when it comes to LSAT prep:
- Self-Study: You’ll use LSAT preparation books, official practice exams, and potentially online resources. This path offers more flexibility, but you’ll have more of a “blind spot” when it comes to strengthening your weak areas.
- Test Prep Course: A structured prep course is invaluable for many. These best LSAT prep courses, offered by companies like Blueprint and Kaplan, provide a comprehensive curriculum, expert instructors, and a wealth of practice materials. They can help you learn effective strategies for each LSAT section, and some even offer higher score guarantees (or even a guaranteed 170+ score).
No matter which path you choose, consistency is key. I’ve seen countless students make big gains by consistently studying, reviewing their mistakes, and understanding why they got questions wrong.
The Power of Practice: More Practice Exams
You can’t overdo it with practice exams. Take as many practice tests as you can under timed conditions. This will help you:
- Get comfortable with the timing of each LSAT section.
- Build your stamina for the long test.
- Identify your strengths and weaknesses.
- Track your progress and see how your LSAT scores are improving.
After each practice test, pay careful attention to the questions you missed. Understand the reasoning behind the correct answers. This is where real learning happens. Practice without review is a waste of time, so even though it’s extra work, put in that elbow grease.
Logistics: Taking the LSAT
Once you’ve done your prep, it’s time to take the LSAT. The process is pretty streamlined now that it’s primarily digital.
Registration and Test Dates
You’ll register for the LSAT directly through the LSAC website. They offer several test dates throughout the year. It’s smart to pick a test date that gives you enough time to prepare for the LSAT without feeling rushed. Remember, it’s totally fine to take the LSAT more than once if you feel you can get a higher score.
Taking the LSAT from Your Own Computer
The LSAT is now mostly administered online. This means you can take the LSAT test from your own computer, typically at home. This offers flexibility, but it also comes with specific requirements.
You’ll need:
- A reliable computer with a stable internet connection.
- A webcam and microphone for proctoring.
- A quiet, private room where you won’t be interrupted.
LSAC has strict rules to ensure test security and fairness. You’ll be monitored by a live proctor throughout the test. Make sure you understand all the rules and technical requirements well before test day to avoid any surprises.
How Many Times Can You Take the LSAT?
Good news…
You can take the LSAT multiple times! LSAC has limits, but they’re quite generous:
- You can take the LSAT up to 5 times within any 5-year period.
- You can take the LSAT up to 7 times in your lifetime.
Law schools generally consider your highest LSAT score, so there’s less pressure to get a perfect score on your first try.
Common Challenges and Misconceptions
As a professional, you’re used to navigating complex situations, but the LSAT can feel like its own unique beast. Let’s tackle some common challenges and clear up a few misconceptions:
“The LSAT is Just an IQ Test.”
False! The LSAT is a skill-based test, not an intelligence test. While natural aptitude helps, effective LSAT prep can significantly improve your score. It’s about learning to analyze information, break down arguments, and identify patterns.
“You Can’t Study for the LSAT.”
Another myth! You absolutely can—and should—study for the LSAT. Consistent practice tests, learning strategies for each section, and reviewing your mistakes are proven ways to boost your score.
“The Writing Sample Doesn’t Matter.”
While the LSAT argumentative writing section isn’t numerically scored, it does matter. Admissions officers review it to assess your written communication and analytical abilities. A poorly written essay can raise red flags, even if you have a strong multiple-choice score. Pay careful attention to it!
The LSAT’s Role in Your Law School Journey
Ultimately, the LSAT is a hurdle, but it’s a manageable one. It’s designed to test the skills you’ll use constantly in law school and beyond. By understanding what the LSAT is, how it’s structured, and how to prepare effectively, you’re already ahead of the game.
So, take a deep breath. You’ve got this. Start by exploring practice tests, get familiar with the test knowledge, and then decide on the test prep course or self-study method that best fits your learning style and schedule.
Your journey to start law school and become a lawyer begins with a solid foundation, and the LSAT is a big part of that foundation.
FAQs
The LSAT is a standardized test used by law schools to assess a prospective law student’s readiness for the rigorous demands of legal education, focusing on skills like critical thinking and logical reasoning.
You can take the LSAT up to 5 times within a 5-year period and up to 7 times in your lifetime. Law schools typically consider your highest score.
Yes, while not numerically scored on the 120-180 scale, the LSAT argumentative writing sample is sent to law schools and assessed for your written communication and analytical abilities.
A “good” LSAT score depends on the law schools you’re aiming for. While 151 is roughly the average, competitive law schools often seek scores in the mid-160s or higher, with top schools seeing median scores in the 170s.
No, the Analytical Reasoning section (also known as Logic Games) has been removed from the LSAT and replaced with a second Logical Reasoning section.
