Taking the LSAT can feel pretty overwhelming, especially with all the rules around what materials you can. If you’re unsure whether to take it remotely or in-person, I’ve written an article on this.
To get the full list of official requirements for in-person testing and what’s allowed, read the LSAC website and guidelines. Section 18 of the LSAC Candidate Agreement also outlines this information. Below, I’ve put together my own list of recommendations based on those rules.
If you’re taking the test remotely, I’ve written an article on remote recommendations here!
Required Items
Everyone will need the following items when taking the test in-person:
- LSAT eligibility number and Prometric confirmation number
- LawHub username and password
- Physical and valid government-issued photo ID
Other Items
One of the benefits of taking the test in-person is that everything will be set up for you at the test center. You’ll be assigned a test station with a computer, noise-canceling headphones, and all the materials you’ll need (scratch paper, pens, etc.).
One of the advantages of taking the LSAT is that the test center handles the setup. You’ll be assigned a workstation with a computer, noise-canceling headphones, and all the necessary materials (scratch paper, writing utensils, etc.).
You’re allowed to bring certain pre-approved personal items into the testing room. The only other item permitted is water in a clear, transparent container. Everything else must be stored in your assigned locker and can only be accessed during the scheduled break. Both categories (pre-approved items and food/drink) are outlined below.
Pre-Approved Items
These are some of the Prometric pre-approved items, meaning you do not need accommodations or requests to bring these.
You can – and should – bring any permitted items that you think will help you during the test. Don’t bring things just for the sake of it, especially if they might distract you. But if something helps you stay comfortable or focus better, it’s worth including.
A good general rule is that you should try out these things in practice. In the weeks leading up to your exam, you should take LSAT PrepTests in a simulated environment. Use these products and test out what works for you and what doesn’t. Here are a few of my go-to recommendations:
1) Earplugs
I personally prefer the noise-canceling headphones at test centers (typically like construction earphones), but you may prefer to bring earplugs instead. Earplugs must be foam with no string. You can get a 100-pack (50 pairs) for under $15 here.
2) Lip Balm / Chap Stick
There aren’t any specific rules or requirements on lip balms. You can use your favorite one – but if it has a lot of labels or writing on it, the proctor may want to examine it more closely. It’s not required, but I’d recommend peeling of the label ahead of time to make check-in smoother. You can also purchase unlabeled lip balms in different flavors for relatively cheap.
3) Cough Drops
As luck has it, many students unfortunately experience a cold during test day. Cough drops must be unwrapped, and not in a bottle or container. The wrappers must not have notes or writing on them. You can get a bag of cough drops here, but you’ll have to bring them into the testing area unwrapped.
4) Eye Drops
Staring at a laptop screen for a long time can be tough on your eyes. There are no rules regarding the bottle or packaging of eye drops. That said, like with lip balm, bottles with lots of labels or text might need extra attention from the proctor. Use whatever eye drops work best for you, but it can be a good idea to remove the label just to make check-in easier.
5) Pillow / Lumbar Support
You’re allowed to use a pillow or lumbar support for your chair. If you decide to use one, I recommend practicing with it during your PrepTests, especially as test day gets closer. The goal is to simulate real test conditions as closely as possible. So if a pillow helps, go for it! Just don’t introduce something new on test day if you’ve been fine without it. Here’s a few pillow or back support recommendations:
- Memory Foam Back Cushion (around $40)
- Memory Foam Lumbar Oval Pillow (around $25)
- Back Support Pillow with Straps (around $30)
- Orthopaedic Seat Cushion and Lumbar Support Pillow (around $30)
6) Tissues
Again, you may unfortunately have a cold or otherwise need tissues, so it can be a smart idea to have them handy. There are no requirements listed on Prometric regarding tissue packaging, but I’d recommend removing them from the box or packaging when bringing them inside the test area. You can get a pack of 4 Kleenex boxes for around $10 here.
Food and Drink
Make sure to eat a solid breakfast – something you’re used to and know sits well with you. Don’t try anything new on or immediately before test day.
The only food or drink allowed in the test area is a clear water bottle. I recommend this CamelBak clear water bottle for around $15. It has a straw, which makes it easier to sip when you’re stressed, and it comes in multiple sizes. You can also use a regular plastic water bottle – just be sure to remove the label.
All other food and drink must be placed in your assigned locker and can only be accessed during the 10-minute break. Here are some break-time snacks I recommend:
- Fruit (e.g. bananas or apples)
- Granola Bars
- Trail Mix
- A sandwich
Stick to food you know works for you. If a bit of candy helps with energy, have it ready. If you tend to get hungry, bring one. The key is to avoid experimenting. You shouldn’t eat too much or too little, and test day isn’t the time to find out if a new recipe upsets your stomach. This advice applies to the days before test day as well (it may not be significant, but you do not want an upset stomach during the LSAT).
You may also want to bring some medicine like nasal spray or painkillers to place in your locker, especially if you’re prone to headaches or feel a cold coming on.
Questions
That’s it! If there are any discrepancies between this information and what’s stated on LSAC, always follow the LSAC’s guidelines. If you have any questions, feel free to comment below :)
Disclosure: The links in this article are affiliate links, which means that I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase using the link. But don’t worry, I only recommend resources I genuinely find helpful!
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