Save the Date – Upcoming LSAC Forums

This week LSAC announced the upcoming Forums for the 21-22 application cycle.  LSAC Forms (fairs) provide a tremendous opportunity to meet with law school representatives, discover new schools to consider, and attend informative workshops.  Forums are free to all attendees.

Next year, LSAC will host a combination of virtual and in-person events, maximizing your opportunity to take advantage of these programs.   Below are details regarding the upcoming LSAC Forums.

The 2021 LSAC Law School Forums Schedule

Friday, September 10 – digital
Saturday, September 25 – Chicago
Friday, October 8 – San Francisco
Friday, October 22 – Atlanta
Friday and Saturday, November 5 and 6 – New York City
Saturday, November 13 – Los Angeles
Saturday, December 4 – digital
Saturday, February 5 – digital

In-person forum locations were selected based on geographic representation, scheduling considerations, attendance history, and local COVID-19 safety response. 

Additional Information

      • To minimize health concerns at in-person forums, LSAC will use a timed entry ticketing system that will regulate the flow of candidates into the venue. On a related note, LSAC will update the format of educational programming at in-person forums and make digital forum educational content available to those attending in person.
      • Updates to LSAC.org will be completed in the next few days and registration for events will begin in July.

Please look for additional information in the upcoming weeks!

 

June 2020 Snapshot

June 1:  Seat Deposit Deadlines!  Starting law school in the fall?  Have you paid your 2nd Deposit? Many schools have second deposits due in the first few weeks of June – be sure you have completed this step by the deadline!

June 2: Registration Open Now for Duke Law School’s D.C. Summer Institute on Law and Policy (in July).

June 3: Access Lex The Road to Zero: A Strategic Approach to Student Loan Repayment webinar at 1:00 pm (CT).

June 3: Access Lex Building Your Law School Budget webinar at 8:00 pm (CT)

June 3 – June 10:  LSAT Deadline – June Scheduling Deadline (through ProctorU)

June 4: CLEO – Achieving Success in the Application Process (ASAP) Program registration deadline.

June 4: Application Deadline –  Charles Hamilton Houston Pre-Law Institute summer program.

June 4: Application DeadlineUC Davis School of Law King Hall Outreach Program (KHOP) for pre-law students.

June 8: Access Lex Applying to Law School webinar at 2:00 pm (CT)

June 10: Access Lex Applying to Law School: A Strategic Approach For Underrepresented Students webinar at 11:00 am (CT)

June 10: University of San Francisco School of Law Legal Area Information Session: Environmental Law with Professor Kaswan  webinar from 4:00 pm – 5:00 pm PST. Click here to register.

June 12:  June LSAT Administration Begins

June 19 – June 20: CLE 1L Prep – Attitude Is Essential (AIE) Seminar for Fall 21 first year students.  Registration/application is on a rolling basis, register early to attend!

June 21: Application Deadline – Latino Justice PRLDEF – LawBound summer program (in August) for pre-law students.

June 22: LSAC – Law School Unmasked for incoming 1Ls – Session 1: Lawyers as Leaders: Mapping Your Own Leadership Journey.  Click here for additional information.

June 23:  LSAC Workshop Utilizing Khan Academy for LSAT Prep Success at 1:00 pm (CT). Register online to attend.

June 23: LSAC – Law School Unmasked for incoming 1Ls – Session 2: Structure of Law School.  Click here for additional information.

June 24: LSAC – Law School Unmasked for incoming 1Ls – Session 3: Dispelling Misconceptions: Biggest Surprises in IL.  Click here for additional information.

June 29: LSAC – Law School Unmasked for incoming 1Ls – Session 4: Skills Needed for Law School: Critical Thinking.  Click here for additional information.

June 30: LSAC – Law School Unmasked for incoming 1Ls – Session 5: Skills Needed for Law School: Briefing a Case.  Click here for additional information.

Check back throughout the month for updates to listed events and programs.

Summer Series: Networking and Outreach

This summer we will be sharing tips and suggestions for students beginning law school this fall,  those returning students preparing for law school applications,  or students still exploring their interest in law for a future year!  Be sure to check back throughout the summer for additional topics and information featured in our Summer Tips Series!

NETWORKING

Networking is an important skill-set for future law students and attorneys.  As a law student you will have many opportunities to network with school alumni, legal professionals, and potential future employers.  Many students obtain summer employment or permanent positions through networking activities, and individuals you meet through networking may lead to mentors who can provide invaluable advice and insights as you navigate your educational and professional choices over many years.

Developing networking skills as an undergraduate student will not only assist you in developing potential relationships to assist you with internship opportunities and law applications – but will start preparing you to excel at networking as a law student.  Below are some resources and tips to assist you in this process…

    • Be Brave: Networking can be intimidating and uncomfortable, particularly as you begin developing these skills.   Networking, like any new skill, will get easier over time and the best way to move past anxiety or uncertainty is to just do it! Consider setting a goal of 1-3 networking opportunities this summer.  Keep reading below for ideas on how to create these opportunities…
    • Be Realistic – Set Expectations:  Often individuals approach networking experiences with the ultimate goals of future job offers or mentors.  Engaging in networking with only these goals in mind can increase pressure and anxiety.   Networking experiences do not need to result in these ultimate goals to be valuable.  Consider engaging in networking with these additional goals in mind:
        • Acquiring Skills: Practice makes perfect.  If you are new to networking – think of initial experiences as an opportunity to develop your communication and conversational skills.  Use these opportunities to work on asking meaningful questions and conducting conversations in a way that you learn something about the individuals you engage with, and find ways to share information about yourself.
        • Acquiring Information: Given an opportunity to interact with professionals – it is a wonderful chance for you to learn and gain insights about being a lawyer, law school, or different areas of law that might interest you.  Entering networking opportunities with the mindset of gaining knowledge can help drive your conversations, contemplate topics to discuss, and provide invaluable insights to clarify your own goals.
          • Networking in a group? As opportunities for larger in-person events resume, don’t forget to be a good observer as well.  Observing how others navigate networking opportunities can provide great models for how you may wish to approach situations, or how NOT to approach situations.
    • Identify Opportunities: Networking opportunities come in many shapes and sizes.  They may be one-on-one opportunities facilitated through alumni mentor programs, reception events, or employment fairs.  As you move through opportunities consider who will be attending and what knowledge they may have which could benefit your goals.  Here are some tips for identifying opportunities this summer:
        • Pre-Law Programs: There are a number of pre-law programs during the summer months.  These programs may include law professionals, students, faculty, and law admission experts.  Stay current with the Monthly Snapshots on this blog, LSAC Events, and admissions office calendars for schools you are interested in to identify opportunities.
        • Current Connections: Do you have a friend, relative, or family acquaintance that is involved in the legal profession or law school?   Reach out this summer or ask to be introduced.  Request a meeting to chat over zoom, coffee, or lunch.  If you have previously worked or volunteered in a professional setting – consider reaching back out to a former supervisor or member of the organization to maintain your relationship and work on your skills.  
        • Look Local:  Home for the summer?  Contact the local bar association to ask if they run mentor programs for prospective law students.  Be bold and reach out to a law firm or law office to introduce yourself and ask if an attorney would be willing to have an informational interview with you.  If your courthouse permits public attendance at hearings, consider engaging in court watching.  Be sure to check local restrictions related to COVID.
        • University Programs and Events:  Look to your academic department or college for opportunities to network with professionals, alumni, and senior students.  Is there an alumni mentor program available to you?  Is there an upcoming career event or program?  If your not sure – reach out and ask.  Don’t forget to ask about future events – calendar now to engage in programs next fall or spring.
        • Career Events:  Networking events do not need to be specifically law related to benefit your law goals – is there an opportunity this summer that could give you a chance to improve skills.  Check out the Career Center website for possible options.
    • Develop a Plan:  Networking can take place in many different forms and formats.  Some opportunities will be carefully curated, while others may require you to seize the moment.  Regardless of the opportunity you should approach with intention.  Keep the following in mind this summer:
        • Identify Opportunities.  Whether it is facilitating a one-on-one meeting or attending an event,  determine what type of opportunities you would like to engage in and what your goals will be (gaining knowledge, professional connection, future job or internship opportunity).
        • Manage Logistics. If it is an event, sign-up and calendar the program – confirming in advance you have all necessary software/information to participate.  If you will be reaching out for an individual meeting –  plan in advance by giving several weeks to schedule.   Be sure you suggest a time-frame to meet where you have a wide-range of availability.
            • What will you wear?  Make sure you dress appropriately for your event.  Does the event have a recommended dress code (even if the event is virtual), if you don’t know ask. For individual meetings, plan on business or business casual attire depending on the setting and time of day.
        • Research and Prepare.  Whether you are meeting with an individual, participating in a program or attending a large career fair – you will want to research in advance to gain knowledge about the individual/companies that you will interact with.  Use this research to begin formulating questions and topics you might wish to discuss.  Consider your overall goals and benefits you hope to obtain to focus your questions as well.  Being knowledgeable and prepared will not only demonstrate your interest, but also key professional qualities.
        • Think about Yourself.  What do you hope to share about yourself?  Think about your story – including key personal attributes or experiences you might wish to share.  Determine these aspects in advance so that you are prepared to weave them into conversations naturally as the opportunity is presented. 
            • First impressions matter. Practice introducing yourself, handshakes, and eye contact.  Small things can make a big impression!
        • Don’t Forget Small Talk.  Memorable networking opportunities often include interaction not specifically related to careers or professional topics.  Be prepared to talk about a wide variety of topics.  Be sure to familiarize yourself with local/national/world topics in the weeks leading up to your networking event.  Think about your interests and hobbies and what you might share with others.   These “small talk” aspects of networking are often what set-apart those who are exceptionally skilled at networking from those who aren’t.  This is also a great way to make a connection on a personal level.
        • Get Organized.  As your opportunities to network increase determine how you will maintain information about individuals you connect with.  Consider an online address book or spreadsheet for emails/phone/website information.  Consider adding notes about the individual and your conversation for reference later, particularly for individuals you may wish to connect with in the future.
        • Follow-Up. For individual meetings, always follow-up with a thank you email.  Be sure to include a request to stay in touch in the future if you would like to connect again and make a calendar reminder to make a follow-up outreach.  You could also consider connecting through professional social media – such as LinkedIn.  If you interreacted with an individual at an larger event or listened to a presentation at a program, consider reaching out to request an opportunity to speak individually.  Be sure to reference the event or program for context.
Additional Resources:

UIUC Networking Tips

UIUC Networking Success Stories

UIUC Virtual Networking

ABA Networking Tips

Forbes 5 Best Ways to Network

Updates and News…

Check out important updates regarding the LSAT examination, newly released information on law school rankings, and a highlight of some new resources for students interested in patent law…

Updates for April LSAT!

Test Scheduling Requirements:

Effective with the April administration of the LSAT-Flex, test takers will be required to schedule their testing day and time by 11:59 p.m. ET of the Thursday prior to the exam.

For example, for the April administration of the LSAT-Flex, which begins on Saturday, April 10, scheduling will close at 11:59 p.m. ET on Thursday, April 8. After that deadline passes, test takers could opt to request a date change for a future administration, but will not be able to schedule for the current exam.

New Icon For Online Test Format:

Effective with the April 2021 administration of the LSAT-Flex, a new icon for the “eliminate” button (displayed on the right side of each answer option) will be implemented which candidates may use to indicate for themselves which answers they do NOT wish to choose.  As a reminder, only explicitly selected responses (selections made with the bubble on the left side of the answer option) will be counted towards a candidate’s score.

The new “eliminate” icon will be implemented for Test Prep in LawHub this week so that test takers can get familiarize themselves with the new icon in LawHub prior to the April administration of the LSAT-Flex.  Below are samples of the current “elimination” icon in comparison with the new “elimination” button. The behavior is exactly the same, only the icon has changed.

Current Eliminate Icon – not selected:

Current Eliminate Icon – selected:

New Eliminate Icon – not selected:

New Eliminate Icon – selected:

We strongly encourage those sitting for the April LSAT to review the new icon on LawHub prior to the exam.

NEW Law School Rankings and Profile Data!

U.S. News and World Report (US News) recently released their annual updated graduate school rankings and evaluations for 2022, including their law school rankings.

Rankings and program surveys can provide helpful information and insights into the strength of academic programs and specialties,  LSAT/GPA expectations, and information on cost and financial aid.  These surveys are a valuable place to begin researching schools and to potentially discover schools you may not know about or have considered.    These surveys can also help provide useful evaluations on specific criteria that are most important to you in your law school.

UPDATE! This year US News has added additional data on the amount of debt incurred by law graduates at individual institutions.   Be sure to view this data in context to other factors including –  bar passage rates, placement rates, and median salary figures for students upon graduation!

Caveat Emptor! 

Remember rankings should never by the sole factor in your decision-making process and individual data points should be considered in context with additional information.    Be careful not to limit your considerations too narrowly by ranking alone.  There are many substantive factors that should be considered in your ultimate choice of law school as you will have many priorities, wants, and needs of the institution that is right for you!

Interested in the Patent Law?

PLI (Practicing Law Institute), a nonprofit that specializes in educational programs for attorneys and related professionals, has recently posted a series of informative videos online for engineering or science majors who may be considering an alternative career in law.  This is a great resource for those interested in Patent Law and who may be considering taking the Patent Bar in the future.  Don’t miss out on this great resource!

Navigating Post-Admissions

 

The arrival of March marks a significant point in the application cycle.  Many schools have final application deadlines, applicants begin receiving admissions decisions, waitlists are populated, and admitted student events begin.  It is an important time for applicants as you are now able to begin making the final decisions in your law school admission journey!

Below we have provided some helpful tips and insights on common aspects on the post-admissions process to assist you as you navigate this next stage.

Making the Final Decision

Tip #1: Get organized!  There is a lot of information to keep track of in the post-admission process from deadlines to details of your admissions offers.  It is important to have this information well organized, not only to keep track of important obligations, but to also assist you in fairly evaluating each school and making your final decision.  We HIGHLY recommend summarizing and organizing information and details into one document.  Consider creating a spreadsheet that includes the follow information for each school you have applied to:

        • Name of School
        • Admission Decision/Status
        • Seat Deposit Deadline
        • Admitted Student Event(s) Dates
        • Admissions Office Contact
        • Scholarship Offer
        • Tuition
        • Cost of Attendance (COA)
        • Any admissions process/steps/deadlines specific to the school.

In addition, you should personalize your spreadsheet to include details about the different aspects of law school that are important to you – distance from home, ranking, placement information, bar passage, clinic and curriculum offerings, class sizes, etc.  Remember to check out the ABA 509 Reports to gain helpful information about each school.

Tip #2: Make connecting with schools a priority. Some students have strong preferences for law schools and making final decisions after being admitted is clear and easy.  For most students, law school preferences may change as you learn more information about the schools, receive scholarship offers, or your personal goals become more defined.  If you are having difficulty making decisions about schools, or there is important information that you feel you are missing, reach out!

      • Participate in a virtual visit – ask about virtually attending a class!
      • Ask about opportunities to speak with current students, professors, career advisors, or alumni!
      • Research the website and other sources to find answers to your questions!
      • Ask how to learn more about the community where the law school is located if you are not familiar!

Tip #3: Create a roadmap for your decision-making process.  If you are juggling multiple offers of admission, or are currently waitlisted, this can be overwhelming.  You do not have to make every decision at the same time.  Break the decision-making process into manageable steps, set a personal timeline, and consider the following:

        • Make easy decisions first. It might be hard to make the final decision on what school you will ultimately attend, particularly if you are still waiting on admissions decisions or have been waitlisted.  However, it can often be easy to eliminate a few schools that you know you will not attend.  If you have an offer of admission that you know you will not accept over another school – eliminate the school you know you will not attend from consideration.  Be sure to inform the schools that you are withdrawing from consideration.  Congratulations your decision-making circle just got smaller!
        • Be mindful of deadlines. You should be sure to calendar any deadlines that might be upcoming – including seat deposits.  The seat deposit is your method of committing to a school and holding your offer of admission/seat.  DO NOT MISS THIS DEADLINE!  Seat deposits typically occur in April meaning you still have several weeks to gather information and make some decisions.  Keep the following in mind:
            • Confirm the amount of your seat deposit and budget accordingly.
            • The Seat Deposit Conundrum: Paying seat deposits at multiple schools is generally not advisable. Although most schools will not prohibit this practice, there are some negative aspects to this strategy.  In addition to being costly, some schools may have specific guidelines and restrictions related to multiple seat deposits. Ask yourself why you would employ this strategy? If there are factors that you feel will make it difficult for you to make a final decision, spend the next several weeks evaluating and gaining more insights.  If this relates to scholarship offers, make inquiries now (more on that below).  Law schools expect you to be negotiating in good faith in all matters, if you know you will not attend a school you should not pay a deposit.  Also, waitlist status is not the same as paying multiple seat deposits. Remaining waitlisted while paying a seat deposit at an alternative school is perfectly acceptable. Visit our prior blog post about seat deposits to learn more insights.
          • Consider how long you will remain waitlisted. Some schools will maintain waitlists up to fall Orientation (and indeed a few students are offered admission during this time each year).  You may remain on a waitlist and pay a seat deposit at another school, however, consider how long you are willing to remain on a waitlist.  For most students, remaining on a waitlist through the summer is impractical and stressful – logistically you may be relocating to a new community across country, the stress of uncertainty may be too great, or financially you may not be able to afford to lose seat deposits at your initial school of choice. Set a personal deadline for yourself on when you will withdrawal from a pending waitlist – keeping in mind your deadline might vary between schools.  If you choose to stay on a waitlist past your initial seat deposit, try to narrow to one waitlisted school.

Cost and Evaluating Scholarships

We hear from many students each year that affordability is one of the most important factors in their choice of law school.  As you consider multiple scholarship offers or costs between differing institutions keep in mind the following:

      • Differences in tuition and fees.  Is tuition fixed for all three years?
      • Cost of living/Cost of Attendance
      • The specifics of scholarship terms: Is it renewable for all three years? Is it conditioned in some way?
      • Consider other factors such as travel cost to see family and friends.

Negotiations: While some schools do have non-negotiation policies, most schools are open to requests for reconsideration of initial scholarship offers.  It is important to approach these conversations in a professional manner, keeping in mind the goals for your request. Consider the following in your efforts…

    • Make sure you know the school’s policy. If a school allows requests, they may have a defined process for submitting requests.  They may ask you to complete a form or that you submit documents to support your request, including proof of alternative offers – be prepared to do so.  If you are uncertain of the process just ask via email or phone.
    • Be reasonable and realistic. Scholarship offers from peer schools, with similar costs will be most comparable. Difference in tuition, COA, reputation, and your comparative credentials should all be considered when evaluating offers.  The value of a $25,000 at one school may cover a much greater portion of your expenses than a $35,000 scholarship at another school.  Focus on your primary goal of affordability, not dollar amounts.
    • Be Positive and Professional. Even if you are disappointed by an offer or feel it is not fair, be professional and positive in your interactions. Keep in mind that schools have spent a great deal of time considering your initial offer and by offering you admission they see you as someone who will be a great addition to their class.  Be positive and avoid framing your request in defined absolutes, accusations, or threats.  Focus on your goals and why the initial offer is concerning to you.
    • Remember your long-term goals. You are making a long-term investment.  Looking at the potential total dollar amount can be very overwhelming, but remember you will pay this debt back over time.  If you are concerned, reach out to financial aid experts to understand better the likely repayment costs per month and loan forgiveness programs, take advantage of resources like AccessLex, ask schools about loan repayment support or future scholarship opportunities once you are a law student.  If a school costs more, but you feel it will better support your goals and long-term success – focus on the long-term benefit.

Waitlisted

Being waitlisted can be very discouraging, particularly if it is at one or more of your preferred schools.  Waitlists can be evaluated similarly to offers of admission – maintain waitlist status only for schools that you would realistically attend if offered admission. Below are a few tips for waitlisted students.

    • Continue interacting with the school to learn more. Set-up a virtual visit and seek additional information that would be helpful in your consideration.
    • If you have new, positive, and substantive information to provide, do so now. This may be new details on your resume or an updated transcript for your fall grades.
    • Consider writing a letter of continued interest if you remain on the waitlist for several weeks.
    • Decide how long you are willing to remain waitlisted at a school.
    • Determine your best choice among the schools you have been offered admission and plan to pay the seat deposit at this school by the deadline.  The waitlist is uncertain, you will want to be sure to have secured your best choice with your seat deposit, even if you remain waitlisted at your top choice.
  • For more tips and insights, visit our prior blog posting.

 

Bonus:  Some schools will conduct spring interviews.  Be sure to check out our prior blog post regarding interviews and reach out to our office for some general insights!

Still Struggling with Questions?

If you are struggling with your final admissions decisions or navigating the process, do not hesitate to set-up an advising appointment.  We are here to help you with advice and insights on any aspect of your final decision-making process.  You can set-up an advising appointment at any time through our online system.

LSAT Updates for 2021-2022

Below please find important updates regarding the upcoming LSAT administrations for June 2021 through June 2022 released today by LSAC.

Administration Dates:

LSAC has announced the upcoming LSAT administration dates through June 2022.  The LSAT will be offered at the following times:

      • April 2021 – beginning April 10 & 11
      • June 2021 – week starting June 12
      • August 2021 – week starting August 14
      • October 2021 – week starting October 9
      • November 2021 – week starting November 13
      • January 2022 – week starting January 15
      • February 2022 – week starting February 12
      • March 2022 – week starting March 12
      • April 2022 – week starting April 30
      • June 2022 – week starting June 11

Additional schedule information can be located online at:  https://www.lsac.org/lsat/lsat-dates-deadlines-score-release-dates.

Exam Format: 

The LSAT will continue to be provided in an online, live remote-proctored format through June 2022.  The current three-section exam (LSAT -Flex) will be offered for the upcoming February 2021, April 2021, and June 2021 administrations.  Beginning with August 2021, changes to the online format will be implemented.

Format for August 2021 and future administrations: 

Starting in August 2021, LSAC will return to the pre-COVID practice of including an unscored variable section along with the three scored sections of the LSAT-flexThe unscored section will provide LSAC the opportunity to validate new test questions for future use.  LSAT formats prior to the LSAT-Flex also included an unscored sections.

With the addition of a fourth, unscored section, the online LSAT will include a short break between the second and third sections of the exam starting with the August 2021 administration.  This break is similar to the break mid-way through the traditional in-person LSAT that was used before the COVID-19 emergency.

The LSAT will continue to have three scored sections (Reading Comprehension,  Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning) and one unscored variable section for the next several years, and you can learn more about the LSAT for August 2021 and beyond on the LSAC website.

The LSAT Writing will continue to be a required part of the LSAT.  Visit the LSAC website to learn more about the LSAT Writing.

Scoring:

Scores will continue to be reported on the 120-180 LSAT range, along with a percentile ranking.  Question type and methodology will remain the same, and the expectation is that scores from the current LSAT-Flex and the LSAT beginning in August will be aligned.

Resources:

      • To learn more about the LSAT visit the LSAC website.
      • The LSAC Fee Waiver program remains available to students and includes financial assistance for exam fees, application fees, and study prep resources.
      • LSAC offers equipment and location assistance for students.  Learn more about these services on the LSAT Q&A page.

The Legal Studies Minor at a Glance…

The Legal Studies Minor is administered by the College of Law as part of its Undergraduate Legal Studies Program under the direction of Professor Jennifer Pahre.  The Minor is designed to provide undergraduate students with an understanding of how the law operates in our society and helps students develop critical thinking and communication skills.

The minor requires completion of 18 hours of credit including:

    • 9 hours of core courses taught by College of Law Professors and affiliated faculty, and
    • 9 hours in one of three tracks:
        1.  Law & Politics;
        2. Law & Cultures; or
        3. Law & Economics of Food Security and Sustainability.

How to Enroll:

  • You must have completed at least 30 credit hours to apply.
  • You must have a cumulative GPA of 3.25 or higher.
  • You must be in good standing.

Applications for the minor are currently open for the Spring 2023 semester. Enrollment is limited, interested students are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

For more information on the minor, including specific course requirements and how to apply, click here.

Individual questions can be directed to: law-undergrad@illinois.edu  

Legal Studies Minor Information Session

Watch the brief video below to learn more about the Legal Studies Minor directly from Professor Jennifer Pahre, College of Law Director of Undergraduate Studies!

Legal Studies Minor Info Session | Fall 2022

Spring 2021 LSAT Resources and News

Spring semester is here and that means another round of upcoming LSAT exams.  Spring LSAT exams are a busy time for test takers who are wrapping up their application efforts, and for test-takers looking to obtain scores for future application cycles.  Below is some helpful information for those planning on sitting for an upcoming LSAT this spring or summer.

The State of the Exam:

Due to the restrictions created by the COVID-19 pandemic, LSAC created a remote, online version of the LSAT  – the LSAT-Flex.  The LSAT-Flex is a three-section multi-choice question exam. The three 35-minute sections are comprised of one section each of the Reading Comprehension, Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning questions. The exam is offered on a remote basis, on multiple dates and times.  In addition to the multiple choice section, students are also required to separately complete the LSAT Writing.   To learn more about the LSAT-Flex visit our prior blog postings, or visit the LSAC website.

Currently, the only available format for the LSAT is the LSAT-Flex.  The LSAT-Flex will be offered for both the February 2021 and April 2021 administrations.  LSAC has not yet released details regarding future test dates or future test formats, however, we have compiled a list of a few key things you should know:

      • Preparation efforts for the exam should remain fundamentally the same in terms of content, time, and effort.
      • While sitting for a remote, online exam can present challenges, initial analysis suggests that individuals are scoring at the same, or higher, levels as compared to performance levels on the traditional five-section, in-person format.
      • Although test dates and registration is not yet open for 2021 administrations later than April, LSAC has confirmed their intention to offer exams at the approximately same time and at the same frequency as the current testing cycle.  For those hoping to sit for a summer exam, we fully anticipate multiple test dates during the summer 2021 months, and additional dates in the fall semester.
      • We are here to help!  As additional information about the upcoming 2021 administrations is made available we will keep you informed.  If you are considering sitting for an upcoming LSAT exam in the next testing cycle, we highly encourage you to attend our upcoming LSAT Bootcamp on Monday, February 8.  See additional details below!

LSAT Resources

There are many exceptional LSAT resources available to students free of charge!  Below is a highlight of resources available this semester through LSAC and the PLAS office!

LSAT Bootcamp

Join Illinois pre-law students and alumni to learn more about the LSAT exam, LSAC resources, and LSAT study methods and plans at the annual LSAT Bootcamp on February 8th from 4:00 – 6:00 pm. This year’s Bootcamp will feature presentations by LSAC and KAPLAN.  This event is for any Illini considering attending law school or sitting for the LSAT exam in the upcoming months.

To learn more about the Bootcamp and to register, please visit the PLAS website.  Be sure to also complete the Kaplan event form for complimentary resources and to submit questions in advance!

Sign-up by midnight. Friday, February 5:  https://forms.illinois.edu/sec/47155402

 

LSAT Test Space

Having difficulty identifying a quiet place to take the LSAT?  Pre-Law Advising Services has arranged for a limited number of testing rooms on campus for the upcoming February LSAT-Flex administration. We will do our best accommodate as many students as possible, however, these rooms are available on a first come, first served basis and are limited to current UIUC students due to on-campus COVID-19 testing requirements.

If you are interested in reserving a test space, please fill out this survey by Sunday February 14th at 5:00 pm.   To review helpful tips about the LSAT flex, including identifying test space, please visit our “Where to take the LSAT-Flex” blog post from this fall.

LSAT Study Groups

Pre-Law Advising Services is once again helping students form study groups for the April (and summer) LSAT. If you are interested in connecting with a group for April and possible future exams, please complete this survey by 5:00 pm on Sunday February 14th . We will provide guidance and tips for your study group, after which the group may be self-managed. These study groups can begin as early as February 22nd.

 

Any questions regarding the rooms or groups can be directed to PLAS Graduate Assistant Courtney Koenig at ckoenig3@illinois.edu.

 

LSAC Test Prep Resources 

LSAC provides a wide-variety of free and affordable study prep resources.  Below are links to currently available opportunities:

      • LSAT Prep: There is a free and $99 version.  The free version provides four online practice tests!
      • Kahn Academy:  Free interactive lessons, timed practice tests, strategies, tips, and more…
      • LSAT Test Books: These are self-study books available at low cost.  Some books may also be purchased used!
      • Official LSAT Content Licensees:  A collection of test prep companies that have licensed official LSAT content.  There is a wide-variety of programs offered by these companies.  We do not recommend any particular company, but do encourage you to work with an option from this list if you do decide to purchase a study program/course.

Financial Concerns?  Applying to law school requires a significant financial investment.  To assist students who have financial needs, LSAC offers the Fee Waiver program.  This program includes the cost of two LSAT exam registrations,  free prep resources, and much more!  To learn more about the LSAC Fee Waiver program click here.

February Snapshot

Happy February! We hope the semester is off to a great start! This month is full of many amazing events and opportunities you won’t want to miss!  Check out the list of upcoming programming below…

February 2: Career Center Part Time Fair. Click here to register.

February 3: AccessLex-Choosing a Law School Webinar. Register here.

February 4: AccessLex-Applying to Law School Seminar. You can register here.

February 4: Pre-Law Advising-Pre-Law 101 Workshop.

February 5: Minor In Legal Studies Information Session

February 5: The 9th Annual Wisconsin Statewide Diversity Conference and Law School Fair. Find more information about the Fair here.

February 6: Indiana University Maurer School of Law Diversity in Law Series. Part 1-Series Introduction and How to Apply to Law School: Game Show Edition. Register here.

February 8: Pre-law Advising- LSAT Bootcamp and Application Deadline for Illinois Leadership Center Position. Click here for more details.

February 8: UIUC Pad Recruitment Information Session: Click here to register.

February 9: Paying for Law School Webinar. Register here.

February 9: Pre-Law Advising-LSAT Chats. Find more information here.

February 9: Kappa Alpha Pi Info Session. Zoom link can be found here.

February 9: Peace Corps Info Session. Click here for the zoom link.

February 10: Pre-Law Advising-LSAT Chats. Find more information here.

February 10: Kappa Alpha Pi Info Session 2. Click here for zoom link.

February 11: Indiana University Maurer School of Law Diversity in Law Series. Part 2-What are Maurer School of Law lawyers doing? You can register here.

February 12: Pre-Law Advising-Selection Strategies: Navigating Post Admissions. Register here.

February 12: West Coast Consortium of Private Law Schools. When details become available, they can be found here.

February 14: Deadline to sign up to take the LSAT in the Armory building on campus.  Must sign up here by 5pm.

February 14: Deadline to sign up for LSAT study groups. Must fill out this survey by 5pm.

February 15: UIUC Pad Recruitment Information Session: Click here to register.

February 15: Women & Gender in Global Perspectives Program (WGGP) “Hood Feminism” Book Club. Register here.

February 15: 2021 Bailey Fellowship Due. For more information, click here.

February 16: Pre-Law Advising-Application Roadmap. Register here.

February 16: Application Deadline for the 2021 LSAC PreLaw Undergraduate Scholars Program Online at St. John’s Law. More information can be found here.

February 16: Marshall-Motley Scholars Program deadline. For more information, click here.

February 16: Indiana University Maurer School of Law Diversity in Law Series. Part 3-The life of a Maurer law student. Register here.

February 16 and 18: Women & Gender in Global Perspectives Program (WGGP) RBG Documentary Film Screening. More information can be found here.

February 18: Peace Corps Application Workshop: Interviews. Click here for zoom link.

February 18: Pre-Law Advising-Selection Strategies: Navigating Post Admissions. Register here.

February 20: February LSAT Administration Begins. Good luck!

February 22: Pre-Law Advising Services-Negotiating Scholarships Workshop. Register here.

February 23: Women & Gender in Global Perspectives Program (WGGP) Fellowships and Awards Application. Click here for more details.

February 24: April LSAT Registration Deadline

February 25: Pre-law Advising-Pre-Law 101. You can register here.

February 25: SAPLA Diversity Law Symposium. Register here.

February 25: Fordham Law School and the Leitner Center for International Law and Justice: Summer Human Rights Institute. Deadline to register for a reduced rate.

February 26: Returned Peace Corps Volunteer Panel at 10am. Click here for the zoom link.

February 26: Indiana University Maurer School of Law Diversity in Law Series. Mock Law class. You can register here.

Be sure to check out the upcoming special events!

LSAT Bootcamp Information: Pre-Law Advising Services is hosting a LSAT Bootcamp on February 8th from 4-6pm. Kaplan and LSAC will be presenting about the LSAT exam, LSAT resources, and LSAT study methods and plans. This is an incredible opportunity to learn how to master the LSAT! Registration can be found here.

LSAC Prelaw Undergraduate Scholars Programs: These programs give future law students insights about what to expect in law school and the enrollment process. They are free programs and each participant is eligible for a $1,000 dollar stipend and a LSAC fee waiver. For more information and to see what schools are hosting the programs, click here.

Upcoming: The Institute for Sustainability, Energy, and Environment (iSEE) has created a new initiative called the Environmental Leadership Program (ELP). There will be two workshops in Spring 2021: March 24 on environmental policy; and April 13 on corporate sustainability. Only 25 students may register for each event. If you are interested or want more information, click here.

University of Houston Law Center: Online Pre-Law Programs sponsored by LSAC. Deadline to apply is March 1. Click here for more information on the programs and how to apply.

Upcoming Internship Opportunity: The last day to apply for the UIUC HRI Andrew W. Mellon Internship in Legal Humanities is March 1, 2021 at 5:00 pm. Click here for more information.

January Snapshot

Welcome to 2021!  We hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable holiday and are continuing to enjoy a restorative winter break!  The admission cycle continues and there are many events and opportunities in the upcoming weeks prior to the start of classes…

    • January 6:  February LSAT Registration Deadline
    • January 16:  January LSAT Administration Begins – Good Luck!
    • January 22: Hispanic Lawyers Association of IL (HLAI)Virtual Court House Visit & Latina Judge’s Panel – Register by January 15!
    • January 25:  Spring Semester Begins – Welcome Back!

February Sneak Peek… 

Registration open now!