Pre-Law Advising Services Blog

One of the more difficult questions to answer after deciding to apply to law school in the upcoming admissions cycle is where to apply? With over 200 law schools in the country, it can be a seemingly hard process to narrow down the list of schools you could potentially attend. Below, we’ve outline some important factors and information you should be taking into consideration when deciding where you want to apply to law school.

All students will need to set individual goals for the law school they will choose.  There are many factors to consider and every student will have different goals they hope to achieve through the admissions process.  Determine what is most important to you in a law school and base your decision on where to apply using these goals as a guide!

As always, you can  meet with a Pre-Law Advisor to work through your decision-making process and help configure your law school application list!  LSAC also provides helpful information to students exploring law school options. 

Factors to Consider!

Medians – Your GPA and LSAT

They aren’t everything – but they are an excellent guide…

Medians LSAT and GPA aren’t everything, but medians do give good insight on the credentials law schools are looking for when admitting applicants and the general competitiveness of your credentials among previous, successful incoming students.  

• • • Let medians inform and guide your decision-making process, but don’t let medians be the sole controlling factor on where you will or will not apply.  Evaluate how your LSAT and GPA compare through the LSAC Law School database search!
    • Apply Sooner, Rather than Later! Law schools have the most flexibility in their admissions process at the beginning.

Location, Location, Location

• Law schools will assist in placing students around the country following graduation.  However, attending law school in or near the same community you would like to practice in does provide unique opportunities to learn about that specific legal market, engage in experiential opportunities, and develop professional networks both during the academic year and in the summer months.  It also helps demonstrate your commitment to residing in the area post-graduation!

The most important question you may want to ask yourself is: Would I live here?  Consider the type of community (college town, large city, or rural area), activities and resources available, and important personal factors such as proximity to family?  Remember you will be here for three years!

Cost

Law school is an investment. As intimidating as the tuition price may seem, there are many factors that can help make the cost of attending law school manageable, and students finance law school in a variety of ways including scholarships, financial aid, grants, and private loans.  Being well informed is key to being able to make strategic decisions about cost and determining if this investment is one you are willing and able to make.

• • Tuition: Exploring tuition parameters and amounts at each school is necessary!  Public vs. private law schools may also have different approaches to tuition.  Public schools generally will have lower tuition, differentiating in-state and out-of-state students. In-state students will typically receive an in-state tuition rate.  Private schools will have a standard tuition rate for all students, regardless of residency.
  • Cost of Attendance (COA): Law schools will publish their anticipated Cost of Attendance on their website. COA is meant to provide a holistic look at the financial requirement to attend the specific law school.  It includes tuition, fees, living expenses, travel, costs, and book expenses. It is important to review this information for each individual school in advance, and in conjunction with any scholarship or financial aid offers.
  • Scholarships and Financial Aid:  Each law school determines scholarship awards differently.   Most admission scholarships are merit based and are evaluated automatically upon offers of admissions. Some schools will have additional scholarships or grants for incoming students based on unique attributes or financial need.  Investigate each school and learn about their scholarship awards and guidelines!
    • FAFSA:  Students applying to law school who wish to be eligible for financial aid will need to complete a FAFSA.  Schools will calculate your financial aid package upon admission.
    • Negotiating scholarships: Some schools will allow students to negotiate the scholarship or financial aid package they have received.
      • Do > compare offers from all schools, keeping in mind offers are most directly comparable to similarly situated law schools!  Look at the schools cost of attendance rate (COA), do you have unique needs that the COA does not account for? How does it compare to other schools?
      • Don’t > violate any policies that a law school may have, such as final determinations of scholarships and no negotiating practices.

• • Resources:
    • LSAC Financial Aid Brochure
    • ABA 509 Disclosures
    • AccessLex
    • AccessLex Loan Calculator
    • Student Money Management

Academic and Experiential Opportunities

Be sure to look curriculums and specific course offerings as they relate to your current or possible interests.  Consider the types and diversity of courses offered, including experiential opportunities.  Be sure to check out clinical and other credit-earning experiential opportunities!

Remember plans change!  Don’t base your decision solely on course offerings as your plans may change and all law schools will offer diverse curriculums to prepare you for any practice area!

Employment & Bar Passage

An important consideration to take into account when deciding on a law school is the school’s bar passage and employment placement rates.  Going to law school should put you in the best possible position to set up your legal career, and passing the bar exam and securing a job are the first hurdles you’ll need to clear before embarking on that journey.  These two metrics will provide insight on how well the law school prepares its students for post-graduation success.

• • Clerkships!  Ask the Check-out the law school’s website  or ask the Admissions office about the schools success in placing students in state and federal clerkships post-graduation!

• Resources:
  • ABA Employment Reports
  • ABA Bar Passage Reports
  • ABA 509 Disclosures

Class Size

Class size varies by law school. Typically, each first-year class is split up into different sections.  If you thrive in a more personal learning experience, or excel in a large classroom setting, it is important to learn how big the first year class is and what the structure for classes will be. Below are some examples of the recent incoming Class of 2022 sizes:

• • University of Illinois College of Law: 130 students
  • Washington University School of Law: 229 students
  • Georgetown University Law Center: 573 students

ABA 509 Disclosures

Each year, the ABA requires law schools to disclose specific information about their law school. The ABA 509 Disclosure reports are an extremely helpful tool that will provide you a snapshot of much of the information mentioned above. On the report, you can find bar passage, employment, class size, scholarship, tuition, and cost of attendance, living expenses, and much more! Each law school will have a compiled report. You can access the ABA 509 reports here.

CAST A WIDE NET

Ultimately, law schools will be making admissions decisions based on criteria and goals that you will not know and from an applicant pool that looks different every year.  Casting a wide net optimizes your chances of an acceptance for the current application cycle and allows you to thoughtfully send out applications to schools you have targeted and determined would be a good fit for you.Therefore, determine your own personal goals and consider applying to a broad range of schools: dream schools, target schools, and safety schools.

The chart below illustrates what general range you will fall into, based on the total number of schools you submit applications to:

Credential Referral Service (CRS) 

CRS is offered through LSAC and will require separate sign-up, including  your permission for LSAC to release your information to schools that you did not apply to.  The CRS may help you gain greater exposure to law schools, particularly ones you may not have considered.  CRS provides law schools the ability to pursue potential applicants that did not apply directly through general information or individual outreach. Some may also extend fee waivers for your applications!

Debunking Myths

“Ranking is most important, I must go to a ‘T14’ law school to be successful, or work in ‘big law,’ or work in a big city.” False. Many schools not in the ‘T14’ place students all over the country at many different jobs ranging across the spectrum. You should not have the “higher ranking = more prestige = more successful” mindset, as that might prevent you from discovering amazing opportunities and incredible schools.  Remember to check the 509 reports and talk with schools about their career placement!

“I have to go straight through to law school to be a desirable candidate.” False. This is the perfect time to weigh all of your options and consider taking a gap year, or more, to get valuable work experience. Law schools do not discriminate against non-traditional candidates, and some law schools even value a gap year of experience.

“I have the best chances of getting into my alma mater’s law school.” False. Law school admissions take a holistic approach, considering each aspect of your application when making admissions decisions. Though your alma mater’s law school maybe more familiar with your coursework, the rigor involved, and certain academic achievements/campus opportunities;  that does not mean you have a better chance at admission. Cast a wide net

Tips and suggestions to help you through the 2020-2021 application cycle… 

THE LAW SCHOOL’S PERSPECTIVE

• • Schools will set institutional goals each year for their entering class. These goals may include maintaining or advancing median LSAT/GPAs, class diversity, class size, balancing out last year’s incoming class, or achieving representation from a large variety of undergraduate institutions and degrees. These objectives are meant to support the institution’s overall goals and to also create a dynamic and diverse class that will enhance the learning experience for all students.
  • Every application cycle is different based on the school’s goals,  expectations, and the applicant pool.

HOW DOES THIS AFFECT ME?  What Should I know?

• • Ultimately a school’s individual goals are unknown outside of the institution. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to enhance your application by being well informed and following some of the best practices we have outlined below!

• • Rolling Admissions:  Law schools have rolling admissions – meaning they begin making decisions from the start of the admissions cycle. The later you apply the fewer seats remain – apply early and maximize your potential to be extended an offer!
    

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The Application:

• • Your law school application is comprised of many components. It can be a long, arduous process and can be difficult to balance with a full course load or full-time job. Therefore, it is important to strategize and plan your application by setting a timeline, sticking to it, and putting in the necessary effort to get it done and submitted!  Being organized and efficient is one of the best things to do to support your application success!

• • Generally, each of your applications will include seven (7) primary components: resume, personal statement, LSAT, GPA, letters of recommendation, transcript(s), and optional addendums.  Registration with the LSAC Credential Assembly Service is required to apply to law school.  CAS serves as a central administration to assist you for each individual application. Please note that each law school will have their own individual application you will need to complete – good news, these are available through CAS!

• • TIP! Remember each law school may have unique requirements, review websites in advance!

RESUME

• • A one-page, well-formatted document summarizing your education history, accomplishments, work experiences, leadership activities, and special skills and interests. TIP! Be sure to list in reverse chronological order…
  • Your resume should be formatted into distinct sections. This could include: Header, Education, Experience, Leadership & Volunteer Activities, and Skills and Interest.  Sections should be unique to your resume and support your individual experiences and credentials.
  • A well-crafted, well-organized resume leads to effectiveness and readability.
  • TIP! Look at the law school’s websites for resume requirements, but also to get a feel for what they are looking for (buzz words, traits, etc. you can incorporate into your resume).

Personal Statement

• • An opportunity for you to highlight your candidacy to the admissions committee and to tell them something they cannot find in other sections of your application.
  • What do you want the admissions committee to remember about you? Show the admissions committee why you want to go to law school, why the law, and how your life experiences have led you to pursuing a career in the law.
  • TIP! Plan sufficient time to write your personal statement because it will take multiple drafts and many revisions before perfecting your final draft!

Letters of Recommendation

• • 2-4 letters from professors or supervisors, that support your law school application.
  • Reach out now! You want to determine who will be writing your letters as soon as possible and reach out as soon as you can. Professors will need ample amount of time to write a good letter.
  • Law schools want to see letters of recommendation that speak to you, personally, as a candidate, highlighting your academic capabilities and aptitude.
  • Consider setting a deadline of at least one (1) week before you need them. Recommenders must submit the letters to LSAC -CAS
  • TIP! Some schools will have specific criteria or caps on the total number of letters they will review.  Be sure to check in advance.

Addendums/Supplemental Essays

• • Law school specific, brief essays or statements that provide an opportunity for you to clarify and expound upon aspects of your application. Some common types of application addendums are:
    • • Diversity Statement –  An opportunity to highlight your diversity as a candidate.
      • GPA/LSAT/Academic Explanation – An opportunity for you to provide additional information regarding “low” scores or grades.  For example, extenuating circumstances or disruptions in your schooling that create credentials that you feel do not fully reflect your ablities. Think objectively.
      • Character & Fitness – An opportunity to provide additional information regarding citations, arrests, convictions, etc. Note! Read the language carefully – if you have questions clarify with the admissions office prior to applying.

• • TIP! Be sure to check the law school website to clarify their guidelines on addendums.  Some addendums may be optional, others may be required!

GPA – Transcripts

• • You will need to provide transcripts for all programs attended – plan ahead!
  • Keep medians in mind. Medians aren’t everything, but they are an excellent guide that will certainly help give you an idea of what the law school is looking for in a candidate.
  • The “Law School” GPA. In order to provide schools with a uniform basis to compare candidate credentials,  LSAC will configure a “new” GPA for each candidate.  This conversion will take into account a number of factors, including norming all GPAs to a 4.0 scale.  Be sure to review the LSAC Transcript Summarization page for details.   Schools will see both your LSAC GPA and GPA provided on your transcripts – in some instances they will be the same.
  • Gap Year? Would your academic abilities and skills benefit from an additional year to develop prior to law school and application to law school?  Taking a gap year can enhance your application and help prepare you for law school – don’t be afraid to consider this option

The LSAT

• • Similar to median GPAs, a school’s median LSAT score is an excellent guide that will provide helpful insight into what the law school is looking for in a candidate and their goals for your admission cycle.
  • The LSAT is offered multiple times per year.  You will need an LSAT score prior to applying to law school.
  • The LSAT Writing portion is completed independently but is required to receive a score.  You do  not need to complete a new Writing portion for every exam and there is no additional fee.
  • Upcoming Dates and Deadlines:

• • GRE:  Some law schools will accept the GRE as an alternative to an LSAT score, however, the LSAT remains the primary admissions test.  There are also limitations on how many GRE applicants may be accepted each year.  TIP: If you are applying without an LSAT score, be sure to follow-up with your law school to confirm there are not unique steps given you are a GRE candidate and that they received your GRE and CAS Report from LSAC!  You will still need to register with CAS.

Credential Assembly Service (CAS)

• • Transcripts, letters of recommendation, and any other documents required for each of your law school applications only need to be sent one time, to LSAC – CAS.
  • All ABA-approved law school applications are available electronically through your CAS, saving you time and effort!
  • All applicants must sign up for CAS separate an apart from LSAC and the LSAT.
  • The CAS fee is $195. Additionally, there is a $45 processing fee per law school application.  You let CAS know which law schools you want to apply to.
  • TIP! It takes approximately 2 weeks to process a transcript in CAS – plan ahead!

Upcoming Programs!

Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application

This workshop will provide specific guidance on how to optimize elements of the application, including resumes, personal statements, letters of recommendation, and addendums. This program will look at best practices, pitfalls to avoid, and suggestions for achieving an excellent quality submission.

This program is highly recommended for students and alumni applying during the 2020-2021 academic year!

This program will be offered on the following dates:

• • • September 9, 2020
    • September 29, 2020
    • October 29, 2020
    • November 17, 2020

The registration deadline is by Noon (CST) the day prior to the program. 

Question?

To make an appointment with Pre-Law Advising, please sign up at: https://go.oncehub.com/PreLawAdvisingatIllinois

For general questions and resources, connect with Pre-Law Advising:

We hope that the semester is off to a great start and that you are staying healthy!  The Pre-Law Advising Services (PLAS) office will be operating on a virtual basis this semester, but we look forward to hosting online programming and appointments to connect with you throughout the semester.  Our services are available to all University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign students and alumni.

Below please find a quick guide for working with our office and a snapshot of important dates and events for September. We look forward to seeing you soon!

Connecting with PLAS

In addition to our Blog, there are many ways to connect with the PLAS Office and we encourage you to check these resources regularly throughout the week for updates and new information.

• • Pre-Law Advising Website & Handbook
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Compass Page
  • Pre-Law Email Listserv:  To join the pre-law email listserv go to lists.illinois.edu, search for “prelaw”, and add yourself with your illinois.edu email address.

Advising Appointments

Individual advising appointments remain available throughout the semester on a virtual basis (zoom or phone). To help ensure that appointments are most productive in addressing your individual question and needs, students are asked to attend a Pre-Law 101 session prior to scheduling an individual advising appointment.  There are two types of appointments available for students: (1) Pre-Law Advising Appointments, and (2) Document Review (Personal Statements, Resumes, and Essays).

Please visit our online Appointments page for more details and a link to our online scheduling system.

Upcoming Programming

Programming for the Fall 2020 semester is already underway! Be sure to review the online PLAS Calendar for the most current information on programming and events.

• • Fall 2020/Spring 2021 Applicants! Be sure to check-out our upcoming Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Application program. There will be four sessions throughout the semester providing detailed recommendations and strategies for your personal statement, resumes, letters or recommendation, and addendums/supplemental essays.  Anyone applying to law school during the 2020-2021 academic year are encouraged to attend.
    • • Next Session:  Wednesday, September 9 at 4:00 pm. Register by Tuesday, September 8 at Noon.

September Snapshot:

Below please see a list of important dates, upcoming events, and reminders for September 2020…

• • Thursday, September 3: PLAS Workshop – Application Roadmap: Navigating Your Fall 2020 Applications

• • Wednesday, September 9: PLAS Workshop – Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application.

• • Sunday, September 13 – LSAT Deadline! Assistance Request Deadline for October LSAT

• • Tuesday, September 15: PLAS Workshop – Pre-Law 101

• • Thursday, September 17: Constitution Day 2020 Celebration – “The Presidency”, Keynote Speaker Professor Saikrishna Prakash, University of Virginia School of Law. Hosted by University of Illinois College of Law

• • Wednesday, September 23 – LSAT Deadline! Registration Deadline for November LSAT

• • Wednesday, September 23: LSAC Digital Forum Registration Deadline (Free)

• • Friday, September 25 – LSAT Deadline! Test Date Change Request for October exam – No Charge

• • Wednesday, September 26: LSAC Digital Forum

• • Tuesday, September 29: PLAS Workshop – Application Excellence: A Guide to Perfecting Your Law School Application

 Be sure to check the Pre-Law Advising Calendar for upcoming programs and events!

Below please find the recent announcement by LSAC regarding the November 2020 LSAT Administration…

Given the continuing COVID-19 emergency, LSAC has made the decision to offer the online, remotely proctored LSAT-Flex in November, instead of the in-person LSAT scheduled for November 14 in the U.S. and Canada.  The LSAT-Flex gives candidates the opportunity to earn an LSAT score and continue their law school journeys despite COVID-19 restrictions on travel or public gatherings. You can learn more about the LSAT-Flex and see answers to frequently asked questions on our website.

The November LSAT-Flex will be administered the week starting Saturday, November 7 (please note this is a change from the previously announced November 14 date). Most test takers will test on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, or Wednesday, with a small number of tests occurring later in the week based on specific remote proctoring requirements. Due to the demands of the LSAT-Flex administration, this will be an undisclosed test. The November LSAT-Flex will count toward the annual, multi-year, and lifetime limits on taking the LSAT. We are targeting Tuesday, November 24, as the score release date.

Key dates for November test takers

• • • Registration for the November LSAT-Flex is open through Wednesday, September 23. Candidates currently registered for the November LSAT may either take the November LSAT-Flex or opt out and receive a coupon that can be applied to any future test between January and April 2021. Candidates should visit their LSAC account and submit the online form with their choice. Candidate who do not contact LSAC by September 23, will be automatically registered for the LSAT-Flex on or about September 26. They may withdraw from the November LSAT-Flex by October 30 and receive the coupon. After the October 30 deadline, coupons are not available.
      • • Because the November LSAT-Flex is an online, remotely proctored test, LASC is able to offer a variety of test start times for test takers to choose from. LSAC will open the scheduling sign-up process about two weeks before the first day of testing in November, so test takers can select the available time that works best for them. Test takers will receive more information and instructions prior to that time.

• • • LSAC is working to help every test taker in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Canada have the equipment and other resources they need to take the online, remotely proctored exam and do their best work. Any candidate who does not have the necessary equipment or an appropriate place to test should submit an online form in their LSAC account no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, October 18, 2020, so that we can work with them to address their needs.

Visit www.lsac.org for additional information on the upcoming LSAT-Flex exams.

October & November LSAT-Flex Exam Space:

LSAC will be offering resources and support for students who have equipment needs and/or are unable to identify an appropriate test space for LSAT-Flex administrations. You must contact LSAC via online form located in your LSAC account before the following dates to be eligible for resources:

• • October LSAT-Flex: Sunday, September 13 no later than 10:59 PM (CST)/11:59 PM(EST)
  • November LSAT-Flex: Sunday, October 18 no later than 10:59 PM (CST)/11:59 PM (EST)

Campus Space: Pre-Law Advising Services has secured campus test space options for the October and November LSAT-Flex administrations. Test space is limited so rooms will be available on a need-based, first come, first served basis. Please stay tuned for additional details in the upcoming weeks!

Due to important safety guidelines related to COVID-19, space availability on campus for study and coursework is more limited than prior semesters. Planning ahead and identifying an appropriate place to sit for the exam will be a critical part of your LSAT-Flex prep process this fall.  Please keep in mind that any space that you identify will need to adhere to very specific criteria provided by LSAC.  The good news!  We are here to help and have compiled information and resources below aimed to assist in your planning for the August and October LSAT -Flex administrations!

General LSAT-Flex Parameters:

• •  The LSAT-Flex is comprised of three, 35-minute sections. We recommend planning a 3-hour window to take your exam (allowing for approximately 30 minutes before and after).
  • The exam is online and will be proctored remotely.
  • You will need a computer or laptop with webcam.
    • • October Examinees: If you do not have access to required equipment (Windows/Mac computer or laptop with a webcam), please reach out to LSAC via online form found in your LSAC account BEFORE September 13, 2020 at 11:59 EST (10:59 CST). LSAC will work with you to try and provide a loaner device for the exam.
  • There are NO breaks during the exam.
  • You are the only person permitted in the room during the exam.

Please carefully review the LSAC website for a full list of testing requirements and information.

Selecting a location to take the exam…

You will be the only individual permitted in the room during your exam therefore you will need to identify a private location to take the exam. LSAC also requires a flat, hard surface to take the exam on (table, desk, etc.) and has provided a detailed list of materials that you are allowed to have on your desk during the exam.  Before beginning the exam, you will be required to show the proctor a 360° view of the room via your webcam.  Be sure to carefully confirm that your test space meets the LSAC guidelines and that all prohibited items have been removed from your desk.

Additional things to consider:

• • Reliable Internet Connection/Technical difficulties: Very few individuals have experienced technical issues during the prior LSAT-Flex administrations, however, it is very important that you ensure your test space has a good, reliable internet connection. Should you experience difficulties during the exam, LSAC has provided procedures for individuals to work-through connection or technical issues and then resume the exam. In situations of repeated or prolonged issues, the proctor will have discretion. Please visit the LSAC website and carefully review details regarding exam day issues.

• • Noise:  Is the space relatively quiet?  Can you control the level of noise in the room? Is the noise level different at different times of day? Only soft, non-electronic, non-corded/banded, generic foam ear plugs will be allowed during the exam.   Earplugs must be shown and approved by the proctor on the test date.  Be sure the noise level is conducive to your ability to concentrate on your exam and to be responsive to instructions from the proctor.
    • • Pets (it happens): Pets are permitted to enter the exam room during the exam, however, even the most well-trained pet can display unexpected behavior. Once the test begins,  you cannot move out of the view of the camera to address a pet issue if it should arise. We love pets too, BUT… avoid unnecessary issues or distractions by planning to remove pets from your testing space in advance (the goldfish can stay).

• • Interruptions /Individuals Accidentally Entering the Room: You will be the only individual permited in the room during your exam. If someone enters the room, you must ask them to leave immediately. The proctor has the discretion to determine if the exam may continue after the interruption.
    • • TIP: Consider creating a “Do Not Disturb/LSAT Exam in Progress” sign to post on your door during the exam.

• • Room Set-up: Plan ahead and physically arrange the testing space to fit your needs before the exam. Be sure that anything you need is within reaching distance on your desktop. Once the exam starts, you cannot move around or move out of view of the webcam.

• • Trial-Run: Make sure you are comfortable with the test space you have created and are comfortable with all of your materials fitting on your desk surface. Create a zoom call with a friend or family member to “test” your exam day experience.
    • • Tip: Be sure to plan your trial-run at the same time of day that you have scheduled your exam!

• • Accessibility/Location: Where is the test space located?  Is it fully accessible to you?  Is there parking available, can you park for up to 3 hours?  Be sure to plan for travel time to your test location taking into account possible delays or unexpected issues.

Possible locations for your test space…

• There are a variety of locations that could potentially serve as test space for your exam.  Below are a few common locations to consider.

Your Campus Residence:  

Your campus residence can be a great space to take the exam as you likely already use this space for your academic work and may have an ideal set-up in your bedroom or designated office.  When deciding if your campus residence is the right place for your exam be sure to consider the following…

• • • Roommates:
      • • Will you have the residence to yourself? If not, identify potential issues (ex: loud video games/tv in common areas during the exam time).
        • Be proactive – approach roommates at least 1-2 weeks prior to the exam and arrange an agreement for the time of your exam (plan for a 3-hour block to give plenty of time).
        • Be sure your roommates are aware of the potential consequences if your exam is interrupted or flagged for further review by the proctor due to disruptions.
        • If your roommates are unable or unwilling to make an agreement with you about potential concerns, consider another space.
        • Tip: Be sure to remind roommates 1-2 days prior to your exam.

• • • Neighbors:
      • • If you know your neighbors, or know they have a tendency to make noise, reach out to them 5-7 days in advance to make them aware of your situation.
        • Let them know your plans and request that they try to keep the noise level low during the exam time.
        • Though it won’t guarantee a completely silent exam environment, it could definitely help!

• • • Internet Connection:
      • • Test your internet connection beforehand to ensure you have a secure and strong connection.
        • Tip: If you are aware that your test space internet is spotty or unreliable, try using an Ethernet cable or WiFi booster. If your internet is not reliable, consider taking the exam somewhere else.

• • • Be Creative – is there a space within a space?
      • • Consider common rooms or study space provided by your apartment complex, residence hall, or fraternity/sorority house.
        • Be sure to consider privacy, availability (you need at least 2 hours, 3 preferably), and internet reliability – test it out in advance.
        • Tip: Does your building  have vacant offices you might be able to use? Reach out to management, it doesn’t hurt to ask!

Libraries:

• • Champaign Public Library: Beginning Monday, August 24, individuals may reserve study rooms at the Champaign Public Library, NO library card is required. Rooms may be reserved for 2 hours exactly.  Please call the library to make a reservation (217) 403-2000.  The Champaign Public Library is located at 200 W. Green St, library hours are: Mon-Thu 9-9 | Fri-Sat 9-6 | Sun 12-6. 

• • Campus Libraries: Due to the on-going Covid-19 pandemic, campus libraries are currently unavailable for space reservations. We will continue to monitor any changes to space availability through campus libraries and provide updates if space becomes available.

Hotel Rooms:

Hotel rooms could also provide a suitable location for your exam and there are many options available in the Champaign-Urbana area. Be sure to confirm the internet access in advance. For hotel and motel options in Champaign, please visit https://www.visitchampaigncounty.org/.

Additional Resources:

August LSAT-Flex: If you have been unable to secure a location for your LSAT-Flex exam, please email the Pre-Law Advising Services office at ccaas-prelaw@illinois.edu subject line “Test Room” by 5:00 pm on Wednesday, August 26.  A member of the PLAS office will be in touch with you to provide further information and guidance.

October LSAT-Flex Resources:

• • LSAC will be offering resources and support for students who have equipment needs and/or are unable to identify an appropriate test space for LSAT-Flex administrations. If you will need support or assistance for the October LSAT-Flex, you must contact LSAC via online form located in your LSAC account before Sunday, September 13, 2020 at 11:59 EST (10:59 CST).

• • Pre-Law Advising Services is currently working on securing on campus test space options for the October LSAT-Flex administration. Rooms will be available on a need-based, first come, first served basis. Please stay tuned for additional details in the upcoming weeks!

Below please find the recent announcement from LSAC regarding the October LSAT administration…

Given the continuing COVID-19 emergency, LSAC has made the decision to offer the online, remotely proctored LSAT-Flex in October, instead of the in-person LSAT scheduled for October 3 in the U.S. and Canada and instead of the in-person international LSAT scheduled for October 4 or October 10.

The October LSAT-Flex will be administered the week starting Saturday, October 3. Most test takers will test on Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday, or Thursday, with a small number of tests occurring Wednesday based on specific remote proctoring requirements. We expect international test takers will test on Thursday, October 8 (US Time), and we will try to provide extended testing hours that day so candidates in every time zone can find times that work for their schedules. Due to the demands of the LSAT-Flex administration, this will be an undisclosed test.

Because the October LSAT-Flex is an online, remotely proctored test, we are able to offer a variety of test start times for test takers to choose from. We will open the scheduling sign-up process about two weeks before the first day of testing in October, so test takers can select the available time that works best for them. Test takers will receive more information and instructions prior to that time.

The October LSAT-Flex will count toward the annual, multi-year, and lifetime limits on taking the LSAT. We are targeting Friday, October 23, as the score release date.

• • Registration Information: Registration for the October LSAT-Flex is open through Friday, August 21.
    • • Candidates currently registered for the October LSAT may either take the October LSAT-Flex or opt out and receive a coupon that can be applied to any future test between November 2020 and April 2021. Candidates should visit their LSAC account and submit the online form with their choice.
      • If LSAC does not hear from candidates by August 21, they will be automatically registered for the October LSAT-Flex on or about August 24.
      • Withdraw: Candidates may withdraw from the October LSAT-Flex by September 25, 2020, and receive the coupon. After the September 25 deadline, coupons are not available.

Test Day Resources (Equipment and Testing Location): As with previous administrations of the LSAT-Flex, LSAC is working to help every test taker in the U.S. (including Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands) and Canada have the equipment and other resources they need to take the online, remotely proctored exam and do their best work. Any candidate who does not have the necessary equipment or an appropriate place to test should submit an online form in their LSAC account no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time on Sunday, September 13, 2020, so that we can work with them to address their needs. Through the first three administrations of the LSAT Flex, we have shipped more than 650 free loaner devices to candidates who did not have a computer to take the online test, and guaranteed hotel reimbursements to hundreds more who needed reliable internet or a quiet place to test. We are committed to ensuring that COVID-19 does not create new barriers for students who want to pursue legal education.

NEW!  First-Time Taker Score Preview Option: In response to requests from test takers, LSAC has created a new score preview option for first-time test takers who wish to see their score before deciding whether or not to keep it. For the October test, score preview will cost $45 before 11:59 p.m. ET on October 2, or $75 after testing has concluded. First-time test takers who have an approved LSAT fee waiver will receive score preview free of charge. You can learn more about the score preview option here.

For more information, please visit the LSAC website.

Please see the following recently announced updates to the August 2020 LSAT Administration…

August 2020 LSAT Administration Updates

Given the continuing COVID-19 emergency, the LSAT-Flex will be offered in August  instead of the in-person LSAT scheduled for August 29 (U.S. and Canada). The August LSAT-Flex will be administered starting Saturday, August 29. Most test takers will test on Saturday, Sunday, or Monday, with a small number of tests occurring later in the week based on specific remote proctoring requirements. LSAC will continue to provide loaner devices and quiet, internet-equipped places to test for candidates that need assistance, to help maintain diversity, equity, and opportunity in the face of COVID-19. Due to the demands of the LSAT-Flex administration, this will be an undisclosed test. The targeted score release date is Friday, September 18.

• Any candidate who is already registered for the August 29 LSAT may either take the August LSAT-Flex or opt out and receive a coupon which can be applied to any future test between October 2020 and April 2021. Current August registrants should visit their LSAC account and submit the online form with their choice. If no election is made by July 15, candidates will be automatically registered for the August LSAT-Flex on or about July 16. Note: Candidates may withdraw from the August LSAT-Flex any time up to August 21, 2020 and receive the coupon. After the withdrawal deadline, no coupon will be provided.
• Any candidate who does not have the necessary equipment or an appropriate place to test should alert LSAC to their situation via the same online form in their LSAC account no later than 11:59 p.m. Eastern Time, Sunday, August 9, 2020.
• Because the August LSAT-Flex is an online, remotely proctored test, LSAC will offer a variety of test start times for candidates to choose from. The scheduling sign-up process will open in mid-August.

Update to LSAT Writing Sample Requirements:

In response to feedback from member law schools, LSAC is reinstating the requirement that all test takers must have a completed LSAT Writing sample on file before they will receive their score for the August LSAT-Flex or future tests. The writing sample has been a required part of the LSAT for decades.  Law schools expect to see the LSAT writing sample when they review a candidate’s application and many schools have reported that they now find the writing sample even more valuable due to the improved readability of the online LSAT Writing format introduced in June 2019.

To help candidates complete the writing portion of their test, LSAC will now open LSAT Writing eight (8) days prior to every test administration. Candidates may complete their LSAT Writing at the time and date that is most convenient to them, but we will not release scores to candidates or schools until a candidate has a completed writing sample in their file. Candidates only need one writing sample. August (and future) test takers who already have a writing sample on file from a previous exam do not need to complete a new LSAT Writing sample.

For additional information about the LSAT-Flex visit the FAQ page.

For candidates who want to familiarize themselves with the format and content of the LSAT-Flex, free Official LSAT Prep practice tests are available on LSAC’s LawHub.

For more information about LSAT Writing, see https://www.lsac.org/lsat/taking-lsat/about-lsat-writing

A message from the Director of Pre-Law Advising Services…

Hello pre-law students and alumni!  My name is Megan Pickens and I am very excited to be taking over leadership of the Pre-Law Advising Office here at the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.  Prior to joining Pre-Law Advising Services I worked at the University of Illinois College of Law in the Office of Student Affairs and Academic Administration.  I am a licensed attorney in Illinois and was a practicing attorney prior to joining the University.  

Thank you all for your patience during this period of transition.  I look forward to helping you explore your interest in law school and the legal profession. 

Appointments:

Virtual advising appointments will resume the week of June 15.  Appointments can be scheduled online at: https://go.oncehub.com/PreLawAdvisingatIllinois.  Please be sure to review the guidelines for appointments on the Pre-Law Advising website, prior to scheduling an appointment.

Questions may also be emailed to ccaas-prelaw@illinois.edu.

I look forward to sharing news about additional members of the Pre-Law Advising team in the upcoming months!