Most law school applicants take the Law School Admissions Test since it is the test that is accepted by all law schools.  Many schools now accept the GRE instead of the LSAT so it may be a possibility for certain applicants.  For the list of schools and for more information about the GRE, go to ETS. If you are considering the GRE, take a timed practice test (on you own, not a registered test) for both the GRE and LSAT and then meet with the Pre-Law Adviser before you decide which test to study for and take officially.   

Plan to give yourself the time to take the LSAT twice (or three times at the most). You must submit all scores to law schools but most schools take the highest score.   If you plan to go law school the fall following college graduation, you should plan to take your final LSAT by September of your fourth year at Penn State at the latest. The LSAT is only offered at specific times of the year so you need to plan ahead. If you can be ready for the test in April of your third year or June in the summer before your last year, you will be in the best shape to start crafting your school list and drafting personal statements over the summer.    If not, plan for the  August  or September exams during your fourth year (or the year before you plan to apply if you have already graduated).   For more information about upcoming LSAT dates, go to LSAC Future LSAT test dates.  Remember, you should submit all applications by October 31st. 

Law schools see all of your scores so do not take the test before you are ready! Most law schools take your highest score but some consider all of them. You can only take the LSAT five times within the current reportable period (5 years) and a total of seven times over a lifetime. For more information on the LSAT repeat policy, go to LSAC's Frequently Asked Questions. 

If you cannot reach your goal LSAT score in time to apply by October 31st, you should consider waiting and applying the following cycle.  Law schools will be there and work experience will only boost your application.  The median age of students starting law school is consistently between 23 and 26 years old.  Approximately 20% of students starting law school are 27 years old or older.  See LSAC's Knowledge Report for more data.