1. When should I take the LSAT?
The best time to take the LSAT is when you have had time to prepare thoroughly! We suggest taking it in June of your junior year if possible. While we recommend that you go into the exam with the attitude that you will only take it once, if you find that you need to re-take the LSAT, you'll be able to do so in the fall with plenty of time to select appropriate schools and still get your applications in early. Many students choose to take the exam in October in order to spend the summer preparing. Again, the time to take this crucial exam is when you feel properly prepared.
2. How should I prepare for the LSAT?
Pick up the LSAT/LSDAS Information Book at the Hiatt Career Center. It will tell you how to register. When you do register, please check "YES" in the appropriate box on the registeration form so that your data can be released to Brandeis. Because exam locations fill up, we recommend you register for your exam location well in advance. Plan on taking the LSAT only once. The best way to prepare for the LSAT is to take practice tests. A large number of previously released exams are available at Hiatt at no cost to you. How you approach studying will reflect what works best for you.
- if you prefer, you can register with a service such as Test Well, Kaplan, Test Master or Princeton Review for a fee.
-some students choose to hire a private tutor.
Research indicates that people who re-take the LSAT without being able to identify something concrete they can change or improve upon can expect a two point difference. THIS CAN BE HIGHER OR LOWER. However, if you have a solid reason to believe that you can score higher, you may want to take the LSAT again. Did you:
- prepare thoroughly?
- experience test anxiety?
- have extenuating circumstances (felt ill, family/personal problems, poor testing conditions, etc.)?
Please discuss the pros and cons of re-taking the LSAT with your Pre-Law Advisor.