Back in May 2017, LSAC began testing a digital version of the LSAT in select cities for limited applicants. Students were able to take a free-of-charge, tablet-based LSAT in what LSAC labeled a "Digital Pilot Test," where the test makers could gather data and collect feedback in the final stages of their transition from a paper to a tablet format. The question on everyone's mind ever since has naturally been, "So when will a Digital LSAT become … [Read more...]
The Digital LSAT is Coming!
A few years ago I wrote a two-part article on "The Future of the LSAT," in which I examined the exam's history (Part 1) and speculated on what I believe could represent its future (Part 2).In discussing what the LSAT-of-tomorrow might entail, I noted, with some confidence, that the test makers would almost certainly begin exploring a computerized version of the test before long. Specifically, I wrote: "Digital testing comes with a host of … [Read more...]
An Open Letter to LSAC About LSAT Score Release Times
NOTE: shortly after we published this letter, LSAC agreed to our request and thereafter fixed LSAT score release times to a specific date and time that is announced well in advance. Thank you LSAC!Hi LSAC,I hope everyone there is doing well! We just went through the June LSAT score release and I wanted to share some of my thoughts and the thoughts of many students I spoke to. Let me start by saying that we appreciate you moving up the … [Read more...]
Help! My LSAT Test Center Was Closed!
So your LSAT Test Center was closed? Here are the next steps you should take:Stay calm. Don't panic. This is something that LSAC is familiar with (it's happened numerous times in the past), and they won't leave you high and dry. Hold on to your admissions ticket. You'll still need it to take the test at a later date. Wait for an email from LSAC. They will contact you to advise that your test center is closed, and to let you know what … [Read more...]
What’s the Difference Between LSAC’s CAS and LSDAS?
We get this question quite a bit this time of year. Is there a difference between the Law School Admission Council's CAS (Credential Assembly Service) and LSDAS (Law School Data Assembly Service)?The answer is yes. And no. LSDAS vs CAS The branch of LSAC that compiles all the elements in a law school application and sends it to each law school used to be known as LSDAS, an acronym for Law School Data Assembly Service. LSDAS was the … [Read more...]
Are You There, Test Taker? It’s Me, the LSAT
A great way to learn about what's important to someone is to see how they spend limited resources. This is just as true about the LSAT test-makers as anyone else. But we're so accustomed to answering the questions they ask us. We don't stop to listen to what they have to say about the test. The Purpose of the LSAT We know that LSAC puts a lot of time and money into creating each test. Those are limited resources. It's reasonable, then, for us … [Read more...]
Which LSAT Has the Toughest Curve?
Everyone and their mother takes the test in September. The fall test administrations are so popular that many students are afraid the curve is much tougher as a result. However, you shouldn't worry about a "tougher curve," because it doesn't matter how popular the test is. Let me explain. LSAT Scoring Contrary to popular belief, the LSAT is not graded on a curve! At least, not in the traditional sense of the word. In a typical college or law … [Read more...]
Batman vs. Superman is You vs. LSAC
The title's weird, I know. Let me explain. You may already be familiar with the popular movie, "Batman vs Superman: Dawn of Justice". It features a showdown between two of DC Comics' most legendary heroes: the Dark Knight and the Man of Steel. The Epic Battle Prior to its release, the barrage of advertising got me thinking about the epic battle of Batman and Superman. Were such a confrontation to take place in real life, who would win? More … [Read more...]
How is Everyone Else Preparing for the LSAT?
Do you ever wonder? Almost everyone does, but shouldn't, and here's why. First of all, how others prepare for the LSAT isn't a big deal because it doesn't directly impact you. Second, it really doesn't matter because no one else will be taking the exam for you. That is, unless you bribed someone to take your exam, in which case you've got way bigger problems heading your way than choosing a prep method! How to Study for the LSAT Fortunately, … [Read more...]
Help! My LSAT Scores Were Held!
We've heard our fair share of panicked LSAT takers all with the same frenzied query: "LSAC says that my LSAT scores are on hold! I don't know how I did on the test! What happened? What can I do?" Thankfully, with a little research, we found out what was going on and have guidance on what to do.Let's first start with how LSAC defines "held" scores: [A] hold will prevent the release of your LSAT score(s) and all LSAT and Credential Assembly … [Read more...]
LSAC Law Forum Etiquette
Don't know what an LSAC Law Forum is? You should! Law forums are events held in various major cities around the country where prospective law students have an opportunity to talk personally with representatives from ABA-approved law schools. Almost every ABA-approved law school sends representatives to these events, which are held in hotels and conference centers. These reps have information and documentation about their schools, and are also … [Read more...]
What Does It Mean When an LSAT is “Nondisclosed”?
If you've ever taken an LSAT or looked through the LSAC website, you probably familiar with the notice LSAC places on every LSAT registration page. It's easy to miss, and it really should be in big, bold red flashing letters--taking a nondisclosed LSAT is actually a pretty big deal. But why? What is a Disclosed Test? Let's first start by explaining to what the terms disclosed and nondisclosed apply. They don't actually apply to the specific … [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 … [Read more...]
Cheating on the LSAT Part II: Enforcement
Part 1 of this blog can be found here.LSAC Cheating Prevention Protocols To prevent cheating, over the years LSAC has gradually tightened restrictions on test takers in test centers (picture ID, no cell phones, etc.) These protocols are in place to help assure LSAC that you are who you say you are, and that you can't easily communicate with other test takers during the exam. But the security measures don't stop there. LSAC has also … [Read more...]