When to Take the LSAT in 2024
Ready to take the LSAT and land in your dream law school? It all starts with strategic timing. While December may seem like the LSAT deadline for fall admission, many schools start reviewing applications earlier.
So, what is the key to success? Get your score on the table early. In this blog post, we’ll crack the code on choosing the perfect LSAT date, ensuring your application stands out before the seats fill up.
When Can You Take the LSAT?
The LSAT is offered several times throughout the year, giving you the flexibility to choose a testing date that suits your schedule and preparation timeline.
Currently, for 2024, the LSAT is offered four times: in January, February, April, and June. This means you have several opportunities to find a LSAT test date that fits your study timeline and application deadlines.
| Months | Primary Test Dates | LSAT Writing Opens | Registration Deadline | Scheduling Opens | Score Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| February 2024 | 2/9/2024 2/10/2024 | 2/1/2024 | 12/26/2023 | 1/23/2024 | 2/28/2024 |
| February 2024: LSAT—Puerto Rico | 2/23/2024 2/24/2024 | 2/15/2024 | 1/9/2024 | TBD | 3/13/2024 |
| April 2024 | 4/11/2024 4/12/2024 4/13/2024 | 4/3/2024 | 2/29/2024 | TBD | 5/1/2024 |
| June 2024 | 6/6/2024 6/7/2024 6/8/2024 | 5/29/2024 | 4/23/2024 | TBD | 6/26/2024 |
What is the Right Time to Take the LSAT?
Aim for the summer or fall of the year before you intend to start law school, giving yourself a full year (or more) for preparation and application submission.
College students
- Junior summer: Take the LSAT then if you’re graduating the following May. Be mindful of competing demands like finals, graduation, and moving.
- Senior fall: This option allows you to focus on preparation during the summer but could overlap with the start of the semester. Some, however, find their minds sharper and less tired compared to the end of the semester. Choose this date based on your study habits and test-taking skills.
Don’t delay the LSAT until your senior winter! Most law schools have rolling admissions, meaning early applications have an edge and later scores may miss specific admission cycles.
Taking a gap year
If you’re not applying directly after college, you have more flexibility. Take the LSAT exam anytime up to the deadlines mentioned above, keeping in mind that scores are valid for five years.
Consider your academic workload, external pressures, and personal well-being. Don’t succumb to peer pressure or compare your timeline to others. Trust your preparation, choose a date that fosters your best performance, and confidently approach the LSAT with a well-planned strategy.
Factors to Consider When Selecting the LSAT Dates
Choosing the ideal LSAT test date requires you to play the long game. Consider it an investment in your future legal career, and like any good investment, careful planning is key. To ensure you find the perfect date, three factors deserve your full attention: preparation, upcoming commitments, and retake options.
- First, map out your preparation journey. How long will it take you to feel confident taking the LSAT? Be honest with yourself and create a realistic study schedule. This timeline will naturally set the timeframe for when you should register for the test. Don’t rush blindly into registration; give yourself ample time to master the material.
- Next, scan your calendar for potential roadblocks. Do you have a jam-packed semester ahead of you? Is that dream backpacking trip across Europe already booked? Factor in any major commitments that might clash with your study time or test date availability. Choose a date that allows you to focus fully on your LSAT preparation without the stress of looming deadlines or distractions. Wondering ‘How Hard is the LSAT‘ We’ve got you covered with essential tips to make your preparation journey smoother.
- Finally, think ahead to potential retakes. While aiming for a perfect score on the first try is admirable, it’s wise to leave room for improvement. Allow yourself at least one additional test date in case you need to retake the LSAT. You can take the LSAT up to five times per year, with a lifetime limit of seven attempts. Plan your schedule strategically to maximize your chances of getting the score you need without feeling rushed or under pressure.
For personalized guidance and insights, seamlessly integrate Yocket’s expert assistance into your decision-making process.
From the Desk of Yocket
Ideally, your LSAT score should be available by the earliest application deadlines of your target law schools. Most schools operate on a rolling basis, where applications are reviewed continuously. Early submission offers an edge, so prioritize a test date that allows sufficient score processing time before those deadlines.
Also, the LSAT demands meticulous preparation. Don’t rush into the test before you’re confident in your skills. Take practice tests under timed conditions and analyze your performance. Seek professional guidance if needed, and ensure you feel fully equipped to take the exam with your best foot forward.
The ideal LSAT date is the one that aligns with your unique circumstances and maximizes your chances of success. Don’t succumb to external pressures or compare your timeline to others. Trust your preparation, choose a date that fosters your best performance, and confidently approach the LSAT with a well-planned strategy.
Frequently Asked Questions
When are LSAT test dates offered?
The LSAT is offered 7 times a year, typically in January, February, April, June, July, September, and October. You can find the exact dates and registration deadlines on the LSAC website.
Should I take the LSAT before or after my undergraduate studies?
This depends on your circumstances. Taking it before graduation gives you more time to retake if needed and apply early. Taking it after graduation allows you to focus on your studies and potentially achieve a higher score.
How many times can I take the LSAT?
You can take the LSAT up to five times within a three-year period and up to seven times in your lifetime. However, law schools may view multiple attempts negatively, so only retake the test if you believe you can significantly improve your score.
What is a good LSAT score?
A good LSAT score varies, but generally, scores in the mid-to-high 150s or above are considered competitive for more prestigious law schools.