Understanding the LSAT: Canadian Edition

The Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is a standardized requirement for most law schools in Canada. Managed by the Law School Admission Council (LSAC), it evaluates applicants in addition to academic records and personal statements. It's a tool to gauge readiness for law school, particularly for first-year performance prediction.

LSAT Test Structure

The LSAT includes two main parts:

• Multiple-Choice Sections – Comprised of four timed sections (three scored and one unscored). The scored parts include two Logical Reasoning and one Reading Comprehension section. The unscored section is used for testing new content.
• LSAT Writing – Taken online at your convenience (up to 8 days before the main test). This unscored writing sample is sent to the law schools.

Each section lasts 35 minutes with a 10-minute break midway.

Scoring and Interpretation

The LSAT is scored on a scale of 120 to 180. Scores reflect the number of correct answers—no deductions for wrong answers. Canadian law schools typically look for scores between 150 and 160, though holistic admissions policies consider your full profile.

Your Score Report Includes:

• Current LSAT score
• Results from the last 12 LSATs or 5 years
• Any absences or cancellations
• Your percentile rank
• Score band reflecting a margin of error

Effective Preparation Tips

1. Understand the Test Format

Familiarity with LSAT's format and question types—like analytical reasoning and reading comprehension—is key. Take timed practice tests to simulate test day.

2. Choosing Your Test Format

You may take the LSAT:

• Remotely – Through Prometric’s ProProctor, using LawHub software on your computer.
• In-Person – At designated Prometric centers, administered via LawHub.

3. Get Familiar with LawHub

All test takers use LawHub, the official LSAT platform. Access practice tests to get comfortable with the interface.

4. Online Testing Requirements

• Screen resolution: 1920x1080
• Operating system: Windows 8.1+ / macOS 10.13+ (not 13.0–13.2.1)
• Webcam: 640x480 resolution
• Internet: 1.0 Mbps download, 0.5 Mbps upload
• Must not use mobile cameras, tablets, VPNs, or Virtual Machines
• Microphone must be active

Room Setup for Online Testing

• Private, enclosed, well-lit room
• No glass walls or distractions
• No personal items, electronics, or written materials
• Prohibited: eating, smoking, gum, leaving view, or changing locations

LSAT Schedule in Canada

The LSAT is typically offered in:

• January
• February
• April
• June
• August
• September
• October
• November

Plan to take the test early enough to meet your desired school’s deadlines. For instance, some Canadian schools like Western University recommend taking it in the summer after your third undergraduate year to allow time for a retake if needed.

Final Advice

The LSAT is a critical component of law school applications, but it’s not the only factor. Canadian law schools assess your entire application, so focus not only on scoring well but also presenting a strong academic and personal background.