LSAT Topics:
- Changes in the LSAT
- General Overview: The LSAT
- When to Take the LSAT
- Career Center Advice
- LSAT Links
- Information
- Registration
- Locations
- Sample Tests
- Purchase past LSAT tests
- LSAT Preparation
- Resources
Changes in the LSAT
Beginning in June 2005, the Writing Sample section of the LSAT has changed in format. The time allowed for the section has been increased from 30 to 35 minutes, the writing space has increased from one to two pages, and another type of question prompt has been introduced. In addition to the "Decision" prompt, which was used previously on the LSAT, an "Argument" prompt may be used. The Argument prompt is similar to the "Analysis of an Argument" sections that appear on the GRE and GMAT.
The Writing Sample section of the LSAT will remain unscored, so the new changes will not affect your final LSAT score.
For more information, see the Princeton Review and Kaplan sites on the LSAT Writing Sample.
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Overview
"The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a half-day standardized test required for admission to all 201 law schools that are members of the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). It provides a standard measure of acquired reading and verbal reasoning skills that law schools can use as one of several factors in assessing applicants.
The test is administered four times a year at hundreds of locations around the world.
Many law schools require that the LSAT be taken by December for admission the following fall. However, taking the test earlier - in June or October - is often advised."
Copyright 2003 Law School Admission Council, Inc.
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When to Take the LSAT
The LSAT and GPA are the two most common admission standards used by law schools. Any student wishing to prepare for the June LSAT administration in their Junior year should begin practicing during the summer of their Sophomore year. Start planning early!
- Bellarmine Society Timeline
- Law School Deadlines: Most law schools use a rolling admissions process; this means that an application may be submitted at any point during the year. Please consult with a Career Center Counselor to see which time of year would be best for you.
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Methods of LSAT Preparation
The Bellarmine Society recommends starting to prepare for the LSAT at least one (1) year in advance.
This timetable provides the minimum amount of time needed to prepare. Students should start with books on the LSAT from LSAC.org and commercially available materials, proceeding to additional steps of preparation if needed.
Students commonly find it easier to prepare for this test using past methods of preparation for standardized tests. Methods of preparation vary widely; additional resources and methods of preparation should be explored according to preferred structure(s) and style(s).
In preparing, there are a multitude of options available. Review all of your options before beginning, and then choose one or a combination of options that suits your learning style, personal preferences, and timeframe. Below is a listing of some of the services offered by the Bellarmine Society and Boston College.
The following is a listing of some of the methods used by students to prepare for the LSAT:
- Self-Preparation
- LSAT prep course
- Private Tutoring
Resources
The Bellarmine Society promotes beginning study for the LSAT at least one (1) year in advance (see above).
If you feel additional resources would be beneficial, please contact the Bellarmine Society and/or the Boston College Career Center.
The Bellarmine Society and Career Center offer the following resources for students preparing for the LSAT:
- Free mock LSATs
- On-campus test vendors
- Career Center Score Analysis
- Counseling at the BC Career Center