When Should I Take The LSAT: The Fine Print And How To Know You’re Ready
When should I take the LSAT exam?
Over and over, I hear students ask, “When should I take the LSAT?” While it seems like a straightforward question, it can have one of several meanings:
When is the LSAT?
Is there an LSAT test date that’s easier than all the others?
How long after studying should I take the LSAT?
Let’s take a look at answers to each of those questions.
When is the LSAT?
The LSAT is offered multiple times a year. This year, in 2022, the LSAT will be offered 9 times. But even though it’s offered a lot, you still need to plan ahead. Register at least a month and a half in advance for the LSAT you intend to take (and start studying even earlier).
Upcoming 2022-23 LSAT Test Dates:
Is there an easier LSAT test date?
Maybe you heard through the grapevine that the March LSAT is easier than the August LSAT, because fewer people take it. I love grapes, and I love grapevines, but I don’t trust them, and neither should you. There is no such thing as an easier LSAT date. This test is meticulously designed and planned to give everyone an equal playing field. Don’t pick a month because you think it will be an easier test. Instead, when asking, “When Should I Take the LSAT?” think about the best time for you.
How long after studying should I take the LSAT?
The answer is… whenever you’re ready. I know, I know, this seems like a cop out, but it’s true. Every student’s “When Should I take the LSAT?” is different. Some students take it 1-2 months after studying; others after 3-6 months; others after years. If you want to know when you should take the LSAT, there’s an easy, reliable way to figure it out: by taking an official LSAT Preptest. LSAT Preptests are past exams from previous years—and they’re invaluable tools. Since Preptests are real, official past LSAT exams, you can accurately predict your score by taking a timed Preptest on LSAC’s Lawhub. The first time to take a practice test is before you start studying. This is called a “diagnostic test.” Some students think they should avoid a diagnostic test, either because they are intimidated or they don’t want to take the test before studying a little bit. Don’t fall for these traps! Diagnostics are the only way to track your growth, and once you’ve started studying, you can never take a true LSAT diagnostic test ever again. While studying, take Preptests every few weeks to gauge your progress. Then, when you are getting close to your goal score (within 1-3 points), that’s when you should schedule an upcoming exam. By the time the test rolls around, you’ll likely have improved enough that you can reliably repeat your goal score.
Finally: What should I do when my LSAT date is soon?
Once that dreaded LSAT date is approaching, you should increase your Preptest schedule. Some people recommend taking Preptests multiple times a week for months—I don’t. When working with clients, I recommend increasing Preptest frequency about three weeks before the test, to approximately two practice tests per week, simulated under real testing conditions. Taking the full LSAT is its own skill that needs tons of practice.
If you study well, time your exam in a way that fits your own personal progress, and prepare yourself properly when the test is approaching, you will excel at the LSAT.
If you’re still wondering, “When should I take the LSAT?” or simply want more tips, you can check out my blog, or schedule a free consultation if you’re interested in working together.
