Testing accommodations are one of the LSAT’s most mysterious and misunderstood features, but not to worry: Dave and Jon are here to clear it all up! Whether you’re wondering if you qualify and what options might be available, how to apply without fear of getting denied, if law schools can spot accommodated applicants and how they’re treated, or what steps to take to ensure you receive exactly what you deserve on test day, Episode 72 has these answers and more. … [Read more...]
Accommodations for the LSAT Part V: The Controversy Continued, DOJ Joins the Party
Part 1 of this discussion dealt with a case that LSAC filed in response to recent California legislation regarding the issue of "flagging" LSAT scores (distinguishing the score reports of those with special accommodations from those who take the LSAT under standard conditions). In that case, LSAC was successful in its challenge to the brand new legislation, but then later agreed to stop the practice. Part Two deals with a major cases filed against LSAC. The DFEH and DOJ Consent Decree The Justice Department announced in September 2012 its intent to intervene in a case that began as a … [Read more...]
Accommodations for the LSAT Part IV: The Controversy of Score Flagging
The issue of accommodated testing is a challenging one for many reasons. From the thousands of requests that the Law School Admission Council receives each year, the council must determine, on a case-by-case basis, which applicants should get accommodations, and what accommodations are appropriate. Over the past few years these issues have been getting more attention, as the council has defended a number of lawsuits based on claims about how the LSAC deals with such requests. Score Flagging One particularly controversial issue concerns LSAC’s practice of distinguishing test scores achieved … [Read more...]
Accommodations for the LSAT Part III: The Facts
Now that we’ve discussed the accommodations available and the process for gaining those accommodations, let’s look at some of the facts surrounding the accommodation process. Facts reported and statements made here are based on LSAT Technical Reports, primarily this one. Let’s present the info in a series of questions and answers: Q: How many people apply for LSAT accommodations? A: Each year, several thousand people seek LSAT accommodations. For example, 2016-2017, saw 3,789 requests for accommodations. Q: How successful are their requests? A: LSAC grants about 46-79% requests each year. … [Read more...]
Accommodations for the LSAT Part II: Applying for Accommodated Testing
In Part 1 of this series on LSAC test taking accommodations and the LSAT, we discussed various test takers who might require special accommodations for their LSAT administrations, as well as some of the kinds of test-taking accommodations granted by the LSAC. In this installment we look at the application process for special accommodations.LSAC strongly encourages you to submit all of your documentation as early as possible to ensure the maximum amount of time for consideration. In other words, while they do encourage test-takers with documented disabilities to apply for such … [Read more...]
Accommodations for the LSAT Part I: An Overview of the Accommodations Granted
LSAT accommodations have, in the past, been shrouded in mystery and even controversy. In brief, taking the LSAT with accommodations means that individuals with certain disabilities can take the LSAT under altered circumstances. These changed circumstances level the playing field for the applicant.So, what are these altered circumstances? It depends on the nature of the disability, but the accommodations include the following: Taking the test in regular print form; taking it in large, 18-point-type print; or taking it in braille. A non-scannable answer sheet is also available. Depending on … [Read more...]