How much does the LSAT cost?

Q: How much does the LSAT cost?

A: The base registration fee for the LSAT is $222. However, the total cost for a typical applicant, including mandatory and optional services, generally ranges from $500 to over $1,500+, depending on preparation expenses and the number of times you take the exam.

Q: What are the specific fees charged by LSAC?

A:

  • LSAT Registration: $222 (includes one test administration and score report).
  • LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS): $220 (a mandatory one-time fee for all applicants to process transcripts and letters of recommendation).
  • Test Date or Test Center Change: $138 (if requested by the change deadline).
  • LSAT Score Preview (for first-time takers): $75 (allows you to see your score before deciding to cancel it).
  • Score Cancellation After Using Score Preview: $50.
  • Additional Score Reports: $50 per report (beyond the ones included with CAS).

Q: Are there any fee waivers available?

A: Yes, LSAC offers a need-based fee waiver program. An approved waiver covers:

  • 2 LSAT registrations (within two years).
  • 1 LSAC Credential Assembly Service (CAS) fee.
  • 6 CAS Law School Reports.
  • Access to official LSAT Prep® through LawHub.
    Applicants must apply through their LSAC account and meet specific income and asset guidelines.

Q: What about the cost of LSAT preparation?

A: Prep costs are the most variable part of the budget:

  • Self-Study with Books: $100 - $300 (for a set of prep books and practice tests).
  • Online Prep Course: $500 - $1,700 (for structured courses from major companies).
  • Private Tutoring: $1,500 - $5,000+ (hourly rates typically range from $75 to $300+).

Q: What is a realistic total budget for the LSAT process?

A:

  • Budget-Conscious Applicant (One Take, Self-Study):
    • LSAT: $222 + CAS: $220 + Books: $200 = ≈ $642
  • Typical Applicant (One Take, Online Course):
    • LSAT: $222 + CAS: $220 + Course: $1,200 = ≈ $1,642
  • Applicant with a Retake (Two Takes, Tutoring):
    • Two LSATs: $444 + CAS: $220 + Tutoring: $2,500 = ≈ $3,164

Q: How can TheEntryPass help manage these costs?

A: At TheEntryPass, we help you approach the LSAT strategically to avoid unnecessary expenses. We provide guidance on:

  • Optimal Prep Investment: Recommending the most efficient and cost-effective study resources for your learning style and goals.
  • Retake Strategy: Helping you determine if a retake is necessary and worth the additional $222, based on data and your target schools.
  • Holistic Budgeting: Integrating LSAT costs into your overall law school application budget to prevent financial surprises.

For the most current and official fee schedule, always refer to the Law School Admission Council (LSAC) at www.lsac.org.