Extended Time on the Law School Admission Test (LSAT)
Nearly all American Bar Association (ABA) approved law schools require the LSAT as part of the admission process. One of the most challenging aspects of the LSAT are the time limits of 35 minutes on each of the five sections, which include Reading Comprehension, Analytical Reasoning, two Logical Reasoning sections and an unscored section (which is used to pretest new test questions). There is also a 35-minute unscored writing sample administered at the end of the test.
Some applicants will be granted extended time, typically time and a half, if they meet certain criteria. For example, applicants who have been diagnosed with ADHD, a learning disability, such as dyslexia, or a psychiatric diagnosis, such as anxiety that affects the ability to perform.
In addition, those who have previously been approved for extended time on other exams, such as the SAT or ACT will likely receive approval for extended time on the LSAT.
In order to apply for extended time, applicants need to submit a psychoeducational evaluation that has been completed within the past three years. The evaluation should provide a diagnosis and a detailed description of how the reported symptoms affect the applicant’s ability to function.
Register for the LSAT
- You must be registered for the LSAT prior to beginning the application for accommodation. You may register for the LSAT online, by phone, or by submitting a paper registration form.
- Complete the appropriate forms:
- Obtain and submit all required forms and documentation by the receipt deadlines listed on the LSAT Registration Dates & Deadlines page.
Once you are registered for the LSAT, you may apply for accommodations, such as extended time. If you are in need of a psychoeducational evaluation to submit with your accommodation application, contact our office. Below is an overview of the process.
The Evaluation Process at Psychology 360
- Initial phone consultation: A complimentary 20-minute phone call to review the process
- Testing: 5-6 hours of face-to-face testing
- Results Session: 1-hour feedback session to review results, diagnosis if indicated, and an individualized treatment plan outlining specific accommodations and recommendations. A comprehensive written report is also provided during this session. This report will need to be submitted with the application for accommodations.
The time frame to complete an evaluation is typically 2 to 3 weeks. Dr. Dohrenwend and her staff serve as advocates throughout the entire evaluation process.
LSAT Accommodation Decisions
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) encourages you to register and submit all required documentation well in advance of registration deadlines so you can receive timely notification of the decision. Currently, there is only one deadline for test registration. There is no longer be a “late registration” deadline.
When the request for accommodation is granted. LSAC will make arrangements with the test center and send both you and the test center supervisor confirmation of the accommodation granted. Since some test centers may be unable to provide certain types of accommodation, LSAC strongly recommends that you register early to allow sufficient time for alternate arrangements, if necessary. LSAC cannot guarantee that you will test at the center for which you hold an admission ticket. Additionally, your test may be scheduled for an alternative, later date/time. You must notify Accommodated Testing if you change your test center location. This notification must be received in writing by the applicable test registration deadline.
In addition to the most frequently requested accommodation of extended time (time and a half) additional LSAT accommodations Include the following:
- Extended time: 100 percent (double time)
- Additional rest time during breaks (the standard break is 10-15 minutes between third and fourth sections)
- Additional breaks between sections
- Stop-the-clock breaks
- Use of computer and printer for the Writing Sample
- Use of spell-check
- Private testing room
- Use of a reader
- Use of a scribe
- Scratch paper
- Use of magnification devices
- Large-print (18 pt.) test book
- Screen-readable HTML test
- Sit/stand with a podium
- Use of line marker
- Marking answer choices in the test book
- Reserved or assigned seating location
- Permission to bring and eat food
- Permission to bring and take medications or earplugs
For more information or to schedule an evaluation, call Psychology 360 at (858) 877-3601 or email