How long do I have to complete LSAT writing?
Asked by: Kaley Pollich | Last update: September 28, 2025Score: 4.6/5 (68 votes)
Under standard testing conditions, you will have 50 minutes to complete your LSAT Argumentative Writing sample — 15 minutes for prewriting analysis and 35 minutes for essay writing. If you complete your essay before the time limit, make sure to click Submit.
How long do I have to complete an LSAT writing sample?
Most test takers will have a total of 50 minutes — 15 minutes for prewriting analysis and 35 minutes for essay writing. If you do not have a writing sample on file, we encourage you to complete LSAT Argumentative Writing as soon as you can.
Can I take my LSAT writing after the LSAT?
Yes. LSAT Argumentative Writing is available to all test takers who still need to complete a writing sample, even if they took the multiple-choice portion of the LSAT during the 2023-2024 testing year.
Will I have to redo my LSAT writing?
- LSAC will not let you redo the writing section because you ran out of time.
- But you can do the writing again in the future if you are registered for another exam- they will not let you take the writing section on its own (it's a one-shot-per-LSAT-administration thing).
How long after LSAT writing can I see my score?
If you have at least one approved LSAT Writing sample and no holds on your account, then at about 9:00 am EST on score release day, you will receive an email from LSAC indicating that your score is available in your LSAC account.
Tips for LSAT Writing | LSAT Demon Daily, Ep. 522
Is 172 a good LSAT score?
On the other end of the spectrum we can consider an LSAT score of 172. An LSAT score of 172 means the student scored better than about 99% of applicants.
Is the LSAT going away in 2025?
The ABA's House of Delegates will vote on the Council's proposed change in February 2023. If the House votes to nix Standard 503, the standardized-test requirement won't go away until 2025. So, the LSAT isn't definitely going away, and it's definitely not going away until 2025.
Can I take the LSAT writing in my bedroom?
You can take LSAT Argumentative Writing at home, or in another quiet, well-lit, private space. and supervised by Meazure Learning (ProctorU). This portion of the LSAT can be taken on-demand and is only administered online using secure proctoring software that you'll install on your computer.
How serious is LSAT writing?
LSAT writing samples are rarely used to evaluate law school candidates, so no matter how well or poorly you did, this exercise will most likely not affect your admissions chances.
Does cancelled LSAT score look bad?
Most people who cancel their LSAT score do not have face any negative consequences. A cancelled LSAT score is a valid LSAT score. Many law schools accept cancelled scores and view them as valid. If you cancel your score, it will be reported to the ABA and LSDAS as a “no report” or NR.
Do law schools care if you retake the LSAT?
No, law schools don't really care if you retake the LSAT. However, if you have multiple LSAT scores (four or more) it may raise a few eyebrows and make the admissions committees question your time management, dedication, and academic potential a little more.
Do law schools look at your LSAT writing sample?
To a busy admissions officer, your LSAT writing sample is worth little more than a glance. It will go unnoticed unless it is so incoherent, inappropriate or incompetent that it casts doubt on the authenticity of your application or your suitability for law school.
Can law schools see all LSAT attempts?
Law schools will see every time an applicant takes the LSAT. Law schools will see if you cancel a score for whatever reason. Law schools do not average the scores for admission, but we always look at performance if you've taken the test more than once.
Can I do LSAT writing after the exam?
You can take the LSAT Writing test up to a year after your LSAT test date, but you'll want to make sure you complete it in time to submit your law school applications.
What makes a good LSAT writing sample?
While your writing sample has no word limit, you should aim to be as clear and concise as possible. Most writing samples on the LSAT are between two and four paragraphs long. Ensure you prioritize quality over quantity.
How long should a writing sample be for a law firm?
The writing sample should be five to ten pages in length, unless otherwise indicated by a particular employer. If you have selected a longer sample, you can provide an excerpt from the sample and add a cover page that provides the appropriate context, as described below.
How rare is a 170 LSAT?
170 score: Scoring a 170 on the LSAT is almost always considered a good score — that means you are in the 2-3% of test-takers.
Is a 148 LSAT bad?
Typical LSAT score ranges include: 120-147 Low. 148-156 Mid. 157-164 High.
Is a 157 LSAT bad?
157 is above the median LSAT, so definitely an "okay" score at worst! Don't put yourself down, since that's a solid score to get.
Can I wear headphones during LSAT?
Don't use your own wired or wireless headsets or earbuds.
In-person LSAT test takers will be assigned noise-reducing earmuffs as part of their equipment and materials. In-person test takers can only use the earmuffs assigned to them.
Can you go to the bathroom during LSAT break?
Between the second and third sections, test takers are provided a 10-minute intermission. The intermission will be your opportunity to take a quick pause, use the restroom, perhaps eat or drink something or stretch your legs, but you must continue to follow the rules and not engage in any prohibited behaviors.
How early should I arrive for LSAT?
Arrive up to 30 minutes before your scheduled time. You will need a valid photo ID. For more information about acceptable IDs, visit Identification Accepted for LSAT Admission.
Did Harvard get rid of LSAT?
Harvard Law School accepts either the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) or the Graduate Record Exam (GRE). We do not have a preference for either exam. Similarly, a candidate is not considered more committed by taking both exams or disadvantaged by taking the same exam multiple times.
Is the GRE easier than the LSAT?
For most test-takers, an elite LSAT® score is much harder to achieve than an elite GRE score. However, certain characteristics – stronger verbal skills and weaker quant skills, for example – might make the GRE a tougher test for you personally.
Are law schools dropping the LSAT?
Yes, some law schools have chosen not to make LSAT scores a mandatory part of their admission criteria. Instead, they consider other factors like GPA, work experience, or alternative standardized tests.