The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized test administered by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC). Students typically take it during the summer following their junior year of college. It contains:

• 1 multiple-choice reading comprehension section
• 1 analytical reasoning section
• 2 logical reasoning sections
• 1 unscored writing section

LSAT scores range from 120-180 and are used as criteria for law school admissions. Additional information about the LSAT can be found on the LSAC website.

The LSAT is administered 6 times per year:

• January
• March
• June
• July
• September
• November

GRE

Several law schools have also started accepting the GRE in lieu of the LSAT. However, because the vast majority of schools still require the LSAT it is recommended that students prepare for and take the LSAT to keep all options open.

Taking the LSAT

It is best to take the LSAT in the summer following your junior year of college if you are going to law school immediately after college. This will provide you with adequate time to weigh your law school options, and to complete your applications early in the law school admissions season. You should plan to take the LSAT only once. Even though most schools take your highest score, law schools will be able to see all of your scores. However, you are permitted to take the LSAT three times in a single testing year and a total of seven times over a lifetime, however, this is not recommended. Discuss the pros and cons of testing multiple times with your pre-law advisor.

Preparing for the LSAT

Some students find that preparation courses provide them with the discipline to begin and maintain a study schedule. Miami offers a spring LSAT preparation course through Global Initiatives to assist students in this process. LSAC, which administers the LSAT, also has resources and tools to assist students in preparing for the exam. In addition, LSAC has partnered with Khan Academy to provide free online practice materials for the LSAT. Whether you take a course or decide to engage in self-study, you should start studying early and monitor your progress regularly by taking several timed practice exams. Adjust your study method and schedule as needed. LSAT preparation should be treated as a part-time job, so plan your time accordingly by taking a lighter course load and avoiding other excessive time commitments.