When Should I Take the LSAT?
As you plan your admissions timeline, one of the most important decisions to make is when to take the LSAT. Timing the LSAT well can ensure the best chances of admission while still allowing for multiple back-up test dates in case things don’t go according to plan. The LSAT is a famously difficult test, but careful planning can keep stress to a minimum.
When Can You Take the LSAT?
Currently, the LSAT is offered nine times per year in the U.S. and Canada, as well as three times per year overseas. The Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) typically announces dates at least one year ahead. Testing dates change slightly every year, so check the official LSAC website for updates.
How to Choose a Test Date
No specific testing window is preferable in any way other than its timing. Summer months tend to be booked earlier because students applying to law school have more time to study during the summer.
In order to choose the best test date, work back from when you plan to apply. Because law school admission is a rolling process, it’s best to apply soon after applications open in August and September. Your final testing date should be in or before September so that you can get your score back in time to apply by October.
Many applicants decide to take the LSAT more than once in order to get the best possible score. In the past, law schools averaged applicants’ scores, but now they consider applicants’ highest score. Having multiple test scores does not reflect negatively on the applicant, although you may need to write an addendum if your scores range by ten points or more.
If you choose to take the test multiple times, leave yourself multiple backup dates. For example, you might aim for a June test, with backup dates in August, September, and October.
Register at least a month before your test date, as space is limited.
When Should You Start Your Preparation?
If you’re planning to take the LSAT to apply the following fall, it’s great to start considering preparation at the beginning of the new year. This will give you adequate time to make a study plan in order to apply by early fall, improving your admissions chances.
I recommend starting to prepare for the LSAT at least three to four months before taking the test. You will need that time to familiarize yourself with the test format and material. Studying steadily over a long period of time is the best strategy to score well on the LSAT.
Factor in enough time to take at least five complete practice tests, at least a week apart to give yourself time to recharge. Complete practice sections or practice problems on a daily basis to master key concepts. Since the only score that matters is your highest score on an officially proctored test, use your practice time to take risks, learn from your mistakes, and hone your strategy using the proven methodology of deliberate practice. This is not a test you can cram; slow and steady wins the race!
[Next Read: How to Study (and Not Study) for the LSAT]
