LSAT Inbox
Welcome to the LSAT Inbox! This is a weekly blog series that answers frequently asked questions about the LSAT®. We encourage you to check back often for answers to more questions you may have as you prepare for the test.
Do I need to register separately for LSAT Writing?
No, when you register for the LSAT, you are automatically registering for the multiple-choice test in addition to LSAT Writing. If you already have an approved LSAT Writing sample on file, you don’t need to complete it again. If you don’t already have a writing sample, LSAT Writing will be available on your LSAC JD account eight (8) days before the beginning of your test administration.
What if someone enters the room while I’m taking the LSAT remotely?
If someone else enters the room, you should ask them to leave immediately. At the proctor’s instruction, you may continue testing once the person leaves the room. Your testing session will be flagged for further review, but you won’t be penalized if the interaction is brief and it’s clear that no information about the test was communicated.
How do I complete the systems check before taking the LSAT remotely?
Follow the instructions in the Prometric ProProctor portal and perform a system check to make sure your computer is compatible with the ProProctor application. You can familiarize yourself with what to expect on test day by watching a short video prepared by Prometric. The video will guide you through the systems check and shed some light on the check-in process on test day.
In addition, we urge you to log into your LSAC LawHub account using your LSAC username and password at least once prior to your test session, to ensure your login credentials are correct.
What am I allowed to have on my desk during LSAT Writing? Can I use scratch paper?
You can’t use scratch paper during LSAT Writing (unless you received an accommodation allowing you to do so). You’re allowed to have:
- Soft foam earplugs (non-electronic, non-corded/banded, and generic foam earplugs)
- Water in a clear or transparent container with a lid or cap. All labels must be removed from the container.
- Medication/medical supplies (including eyeglasses)
- Diabetic testing or treatment supplies (Bluetooth-enabled medical devices must be pre-approved)
- Tissues
Each of these items must be shown to the camera during the security check-in procedure.
How long are LSAT Writing samples valid?
You may use any LSAT score from the current testing year or the past five testing years to apply for law school. This includes both your LSAT score and your LSAT Writing sample.
Beginning with the 2021-2022 testing year, LSAT testing years run from July through June.
For example, if you took the LSAT in June 2018, you could use this score to apply to law school through June 2024. Results from LSATs in prior years will not be reported.
If you plan to take the LSAT this testing year and have an LSAT Writing sample on file from before June 2018, you’ll need to complete another writing sample.
How can I contact LSAC if I have additional questions?
If you have a question that wasn’t answered here, you can contact us using our “Chat” feature by clicking on the chat icon on the bottom right corner of the LSAT pages on our website, via email at LSACinfo@LSAC.org, or call us at 1.800.336.3982. You can also refer to our The LSAT This Week blog for details on upcoming test deadlines, how to prepare for the test, how to avoid having your session flagged, and more.