LSAT Blog

Official GPA and LSAT Calculator

Wondering whether you can into Harvard Law School or any school, for that matter?

Official GPA and LSAT Calculator

LSAC makes you read a disclosure! To skip it, scroll down and click on Return to Search Page.

After you enter your GPA and LSAT score (or estimated score), sort by Likelihood.

Day Before the LSAT

  1. Take it easy. Plan to do something fun, and don't plan on studying. If you like studying, it won't hurt. But don't feel the need to do so. You're prepared. Now is the time to relax and to get rested for the day ahead. That said, don't get all worried about getting enough sleep; you'll get through the test. Just say no to partying and you'll be good.
  2. Figure out how to get to the testing center. And, if possible, go to the testing center. That will ensure you know how to get there, how long it takes, and where to park. Once you're there, if you can get in the building, check out where you'll be sitting, the clock (if any), restrooms, drinking fountains, and so on. The more you know, the more relaxed you'll be.
  3. Print out your ticket even if you already have. Make sure your testing center hasn't changed; it's happened before.
  4. Pack your zip-lock bag, which must be one gallon (3.79 liter) or smaller. Contents.
  5. Set your alarm and go have fun. You've done all you can do.

What can I take to the LSAT?

Almost nothing, except your clothes and a one-gallon, clear zip-lock bag with the following goodies:

Required

  • LSAT admission ticket
  • Driver's license or passport
  • No. 2 wooden pencils

ID Requirements

    • Current (not expired)
    • Government issued
    • Photo
    • Your signature
    • Your first and last name on your ID must match your ticket exactly. If not, you must request a new ticket well before the exam.

    Optional

    • Wallet
    • Keys
    • Analog wrist watch
    • Medical or hygiene products
    • Highlighter
    • Erasers
    • Pencil sharpener
    • Tissues
    • Beverage in plastic container or juice box (maximum size 20 oz. or 591 ml)
    • Snack

    Not Permitted

    • Cell phones
    • Ear plugs
    • Mechanical pencils
    • Anything remotely electronic, including digital watches

    Wear a few extra layers of clothing just in case it's too cold because you can always take them off.

    Famous vs. Familiar Recommendation Letters

    Every year some pre-law student interns for some U.S. Senator, hoping to get a great letter of recommendation. Nothing wrong with that, unless you never get to know your boss.

    These letters from "famous" recommenders are far less influential than those letters from recommenders who are "familiar" with who you are and with how you work.

    That doesn't mean you want to ask your dad, of course. But you do want to ask someone who's worked with you closely in school or at work, so they can really dig deep and show the admissions committee what you're made of.

    For those who still have time, remember this and work really hard for someone before you apply so you can ask for a recommendation with complete confidence that it will get you in at your top school -- and not get in your way.

    Which reminds me, if you're not sure whether someone will sing your praises, don't ask them to recommend you. If you're desparate and can't find anyone else, be direct:
    "Would you be willing to write a strong recommendation letter for my law school application?"
    If they hestitate (even slightly) and then say "yes," just tell them you'll get back to them. Then go with Plan B by either asking someone else or getting a new job so you can build up future recommenders.

    Should I wait until February?

    Many people have been asking if they should take the test now -- in December -- or wait until February.

    Short answer:
    If you really want to go to law school in 2009, take the December LSAT.
    Most schools don't accept February LSAT scores from students who want to attend the following fall. But even when schools do, they've usually filled up most of their incoming class by that time, so your chances of acceptance are much lower.
    If you're willing to wait a year, take the February LSAT and apply early.
    You'll be ahead of everyone else, you'll have more time to study for the LSAT, you'll be able to focus on your applications in the summer, and you'll know where you want to apply because you'll have your actual score. Then go get a cool internship over the summer that will give you a good recommendation letter and bragging rights on your resume.