LSAT
All applicants must take the Law School Admission Test (LSAT).
General Information
Test Preparation
The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is a standardized, multiple-choice test offered four times a year by the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC). It is required for admission to law school. We advise developing a strategy for success on the LSAT -- one that considers both when you will prepare for the test and how you will manage your stress.
Note that we talk about preparing for the LSAT and not studying for it. The LSAT is unlike other standardized tests in that it doesn't test specific knowledge. You can't memorize vocabulary words or formulas to succeed on the LSAT. Rather, you should research the question types and practice the skills and strategies to master those sections.
When evaluating LSAT scores, we consider whether similar tests have under-predicted your academic performance in the past. If you document that you have earned exceptionally high undergraduate grades but performed badly on the SAT, for example, then this factor may be taken into account in evaluating your potential to succeed in law school. You must document your test-taking history by including a copy of your SAT scores with your application.
Create a Testing Timeline
The LSAT is offered four times each year, in February, June, September, and December. Please register early. This will facilitate the test date you want, a test location near your home or school, and will determine your preparation timeline. If you wait until the last minute and register, for example, three weeks before the test, then you will only have three weeks to prepare. Plan ahead and pick a test date that works best for you.
The last test administration we will accept is in December of the year before you intend to begin law school. Because our application deadline is in February, applicants sometimes incorrectly presume that we accept February LSAT scores. We do, but not for that fall's class. We accept test scores that are no more than five years old at the time of application, so you may take the LSAT but not apply immediately to law school.
Some applicant enroll in a commercial test-preparation program. It's up to you to decide if a test-prep program is right for you, if it fits your schedule, your learning style, your level of discipline, and your budget. Berkeley Law does not recommend nor endorse any commercial test-preparation program.
Practice, Practice, Practice
Take practice tests, preferably in a "test-like" environment. Get a feel for the length of the timed sections. By becoming familiar with the LSAT you will reduce your stress and optimize your performance.
Multiple Test Scores
Should you re-take the LSAT if you are unhappy with your score. We advise preparing well initially and then doing your best on test day. However, there are times when re-taking the test might be a good idea. For example, if you were ill or if something unexpected occurred that significantly affected your test performance. We do not penalize for canceling scores in accordance with what LSAC permits. We will see all of your scores so make it your goal to prepare thoroughly and to take the LSAT only once.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I register for the LSAT?
LSAT information and registration are available at http://www.lsac.org/. You must register for the LSAT well in advance of the actual test date to guarantee your testing location and to avoid any late registration fees.
How long are my scores valid?
Five years. If you plan to apply in fall 2012 and have a score between December 2007 and December 2011, then you need not take it again. However, don't forget to request LSAC to send your scores to us.
Can I get a Fee Waiver for the LSAT?
Waivers for the LSAT fees are available on a financial-need basis directly from LSAC. You should act early by applying for the LSAC fee waiver online.
GRE
Some of our concurrent degree programs require applicants to provide scores from the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). Please check with the programs and departments where you are applying to determine if you need to take the GRE. For more information about taking the test, visit the GRE website.
