Embarking on your journey through law school involves several significant steps, one of which is successfully navigating the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT). Below, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions to help guide you through the process for the 2023-2024 cycle. This page was updated in October 2023, and the information contained refers to the 2023/2024 LNAT testing cycle.

When To Take The LNAT

When should I take the LNAT in 2023?

It’s important to schedule your test for a date within the official LNAT cycle, which is between 1 September 2023 and 31 July 2024.

Does it matter if I take the LNAT 2023 before or after submitting my UCAS application?

No, the timing of your LNAT relative to your UCAS application submission doesn’t affect your eligibility. The crucial factor is that you take the LNAT within the same application cycle. Please remember, you won’t receive your LNAT results until after your university application is submitted.

Will my LNAT score from last year be valid for this year’s application?

Unfortunately, no. LNAT scores are not carried over from one year to the next. If you are reapplying through UCAS, you need to retake the LNAT in the same year as your new application.

What if I miss the deadline for the LNAT exam?

Missing the deadline to sit the LNAT will unfortunately result in your application being rejected. You would need to wait to apply for the next academic cycle and ensure that you take the LNAT within the appropriate timeframe.

I’m planning to travel or work overseas during the LNAT period. What should I do?

No need to worry! The LNAT is accessible globally, with over 500 test centres around the world. You can take the exam in any of these centres, even if you are abroad. Just ensure you book your test within the specified dates.

When does the registration for the LNAT begin?

For the 2023-2024 cycle, both UCAS and LNAT registrations open on 1 August 2023. Early registration is advised to secure your preferred test date.

Are there specific deadlines for Oxbridge, KCL, LSE, UCL, or other universities?

Yes, various universities have specific deadlines. For instance, Oxbridge candidates must sit the LNAT by 16 October 2023. Candidates for KCL, LSE, and UCL have until 31 December 2023. Other universities have different deadlines, often in early to late January 2024. Always check with your chosen university to avoid missing out.

Can I apply late for the LNAT?

International applicants may have a provision for late application, but it’s subject to specific university policies. The general late application deadline requires booking the LNAT by 25 July 2024 and sitting it by 31 July 2024. However, it’s crucial to verify with your chosen universities.

Important Tips:

  • Be strategic in your application and aim to adhere to the January deadlines.
  • Ensure synchronisation between your LNAT profile and UCAS application.
  • Prepare for test fee payment methods in advance.
  • You are allowed only one LNAT attempt per cycle.
  • LNAT scores are not reusable in subsequent academic years.

LNAT Universities

Why do universities require the LNAT for law programs?

The LNAT helps universities differentiate between candidates with similar academic qualifications, assessing their suitability and preparedness for the rigorous legal studies ahead. It’s an additional measure to grade-based evaluations, designed to test a candidate’s analytical abilities and aptitude in law.

Does taking the LNAT mean I have automatically applied to the universities of my choice?

No, the LNAT is a separate process. Candidates need to apply for their chosen law programs in the usual manner through the universities’ application processes. Taking the LNAT is an additional step required by certain universities to assess your capabilities further.

Which UK universities currently require the LNAT for law courses?

There are 11 LNAT universities; 9 are based in the UK and two are overseas. 8 of the 9 UK-based LNAT universities are Russell Group Unis (SOAS is the exception), and 4 of them (King’s, LSE, SOAS and UCL) are in London.

  • UK LNAT Universities:
  • University of Bristol
  • University of Cambridge
  • Durham University
  • University of Glasgow
  • King’s College, London (KCL)
  • London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)
  • University of Oxford
  • University College London (UCL)
  • SOAS University of London

Note that the University of Nottingham appears to have dropped their LNAT requirement for the 2024 academic year entry.

Are there any international universities that accept or require the LNAT?

Yes, the Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) and IE University in Spain also use the LNAT in their admissions process. It’s important to check directly with these universities to understand the specific conditions under which they require or accept the LNAT.

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LNAT Registration 

How Do I Register For The LNAT?

The LNAT testing system is operated by Pearson VUE. You will need to complete a two-step registration process using the Pearson VUE online registration system. You will need to:

  • Set up an online account and register your contact information 
  • Book and pay for your test – once you have completed your registration and created a profile. You will then be sent an email notifying you to book and pay for your test.

When Should I Register For The LNAT?

As soon as you can. Each university requiring the test specifies a deadline for sitting the test. If you miss the deadlines, your university application is likely to be rejected. You can register up to 12 noon, two days prior to taking your test. For 2023/24 UCAS applications, the LNAT registration will begin on 1 August 2023.

Are There Any Exceptions To Online Registration?

No. You will need to register for your test online and obtain an identification number. If you have special Examination Access Requirements, do not book the test online – only standard tests can be booked this way.  If you book an online test before specific exam access arrangements are made, the test will have to be cancelled and a test incorporating your special requirements will need to be booked instead. You should note that cancelling and rebooking conditions will apply.

LNAT Booking

When Can I Book My LNAT?

As soon as you have registered your LNAT account on the Pearson VUE website, you can immediately book and pay for your LNAT exam. You should book as early as possible to avoid missing any deadlines.

Can I Reschedule My LNAT?

 Candidates can reschedule their LNAT free of charge until 12 noon (UK time) two working days before their test, excluding English Bank Holidays. Failure to reschedule within this period will necessitate a new booking and payment, as fees are non-refundable if you choose not to sit the test or miss the rescheduling deadline. This policy applies even if you’ve used a voucher or bursary for payment.

How Much Is The LNAT?

As of 2023, the LNAT costs £75 to take it in the UK or an EU country. Outside the UK or EU, the fee is £120.

I Can’t Afford The Fee, Is There An LNAT Bursary?

Yes, there is a bursary available if you can’t afford the exam fee. LNAT does not want the cost to be a barrier to taking the exam. Your test fee will be waived if you are a UK or EU student receiving certain state benefits. However, you must apply for a bursary before booking your exam. 

It can take up to a week to process an LNAT bursary application, so allow extra time when making your test booking.

The LNAT Exam

How Should I Prepare For The Test?

Preparing for the test doesn’t involve memorising facts. Instead, it’s advisable to utilise relevant preparation materials to engage and train the relevant cognitive processes and become acquainted with the test’s structure. Follow our guide on how to prepare for the LNAT.

How Hard Is The LNAT?

The test is challenging, as it’s used by some of the world’s best universities for students trying to get into their top law schools. It features 42 multiple-choice questions and three essay questions – of which you must answer one.

How long is the LNAT?

The LNAT is a 2¼ hour test in two sections. Section A consists of 42 multiple choice questions. The questions are based on 12 argumentative passages, with 3 or 4 multiple choice questions on each. You are given 95 minutes to answer all of the questions.

For Section B, you have 40 minutes to answer one of three essay questions on a range of subjects.

What Are The LNAT Multiple-Choice Questions?

Section A of the LNAT is computer-based, comprising 12 argumentative passages, each followed by three or four multiple-choice questions. These questions, spanning various topics from politics to technology, assess your comprehension and analytical skills, not your knowledge of the subjects discussed.

What Is The LNAT Essay?

The essay question or Section B gives you three options to choose from and the questions will cover a variety of general topics that are usually relevant to current issues. Types of essay questions could include:

  • To what extent should freedom of speech be absolute? Consider the implications of where the law should draw the line.
  • With reference to a recent environmental crisis, discuss whether international law is equipped to tackle global environmental challenges

LNAT Scoring

How is the LNAT Scored?

The multiple-choice section counts toward your final test score, but the essay question does not. It is provided to the universities to which you have applied, along with your score.

What Is The LNAT Pass Score?

The test is scored out of 42. There is no pass or fail mark, but there are average scores that candidates typically achieve to successfully receive an offer from LNAT universities. For example, a good LNAT score for University of Oxford (which saw candidates secure a place) was 28.5 in 2023. 

When are LNAT results released?

LNAT results day 2023 is the same as each year. LNAT results day is twice annually: candidates who tested by 26 January receive results in mid-February, and those tested after, in mid-August

When are LNAT scores released to universities?

From 21 October, universities start receiving LNAT scores from tests taken between 1 September and 20 October, and post that, scores are available to them within 24 hours of a candidate completing the test.

How long is my LNAT score valid for?

It is only valid for the year you took it, if you are reapplying through UCAS this year, you must also take the test again this year. Results are not carried over from one year to the next.

LNAT Resits

Can you retake the LNAT?

No, you can only take the LNAT once per cycle (1 September to 31 July), with unauthorised re-sittings deemed invalid. If you want to try it again, you will have to wait until next year to reapply.

Can I get extra time for the LNAT?

Yes – register as normal online via Pearson Vue, but do not book your test online. You will need to complete an Examination Access Requirements form through the website and send it to them, along with documentary evidence.

Conclusion

Navigating the LNAT successfully is crucial for your law school journey. Stay ahead by understanding the key dates, including when LNAT results are released, and optimise your preparation in 2023.

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