FAQs: Standardized Tests
Which standardized tests are you accepting?
As part of a pilot program, we are accepting the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT* to satisfy the standardized test requirement.
*We are only accepting the GMAT score (including GMAT Online Exam scores - see below) if an applicant is applying to a dual degree program with the University of Chicago Law School and a graduate program in another division of the University of Chicago.
Are you accepting the LSAT-Flex, GRE General Test at Home, and GMAT Online Exam to satisfy the standardized test requirement?
Yes, we are accepting the LSAT-Flex, GRE General Test at Home, and GMAT Online Exam to satisfy the standardized test requirement (see above for when you may submit GMAT or GMAT Online Exam scores). Through our holistic review process, we will consider these remote, online exam scores in the same way we consider in-person exam scores. Your application will not be disadvantaged if you submit valid scores for the LSAT-Flex, GRE General Test at Home, or GMAT Online Exam.
For more information on these exams, please review the sites for the LSAT-Flex, GRE General Test at Home, and GMAT Online Exam.
How should I prepare for the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT?
Students can and should study and prepare for the LSAT, GRE, and GMAT. We recommend students be as prepared as possible when they take one of these tests, though the appropriate type of preparation depends on the individual. For some applicants, a preparatory class provides the structure and guidance to ensure adequate preparation. However, many students are able to sufficiently prepare independently. Either way, your preparation should include taking practice tests in "test-like" conditions, which includes timing each section. Please review the websites of LSAC, ETS, and GMAC to learn more about these tests and how you can prepare. LSAC offers a free LSAT preparation course through LawHub.
How important is my standardized test score?
Your standardized test score is an important part of your application. Although no one factor is a perfect indicator of academic potential, studies demonstrate the LSAT, GRE, and GMAT are relatively reliable predictors of law school performance. However, the Admissions Committee evaluates the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT in the context of your overall application. An applicant's standardized test score is not the sole factor in any application. The Admissions Committee will read every component of your application in its entirety regardless of your standardized test score.
Unless you have earned an LL.M. degree from the University of Chicago Law School, you will be required to take and report at least one (1) LSAT or GRE score with your application. You may report a GMAT score in lieu of the LSAT or GRE score if you are a dual degree applicant to the University of Chicago Law School and to a graduate program in another division of the University of Chicago.
How does the Admissions Committee evaluate multiple test scores?
We will review all valid LSAT scores you have received. In accordance with the American Bar Association (ABA) and LSAC policies, we place the most importance on the highest LSAT score and report the highest score (we do not average). If you submit GRE or GMAT scores, you must submit all scores within the last five years. We review all GRE and/or GMAT scores, and we do not average. If you take the LSAT in addition to the GRE or GMAT, we will evaluate all scores but report the highest LSAT score to the ABA.
Any large differences between LSAT scores, GRE scores, or GMAT scores should be explained in an addendum (uploaded through the LSAC electronic application). If you submit an addendum, we are looking for your honest assessment of why one score is a better predictor of your ability than another.
Note: If you are admitted to the Law School with a GRE or GMAT score and, after admission, take the LSAT, the Admissions Committee will evaluate your new LSAT score and may re-evaluate your offer of admission.
When should I take the LSAT, GRE, or GMAT?
Because of the rolling admissions process, we believe that taking the test before the new calendar year best positions you to get your application in early. You may take the January LSAT, but we advise you to submit all other required application materials in advance of the test so that the LSAT will be the final component of your application. If you are applying to the Early Decision Program or the Chicago Law Scholars Program, the November LSAT test administration is the last test we will accept.
Will the Admissions Committee review my file before I get my test score?
The Admissions Committee will not review any portion of your application until we have all required application materials, including your standardized test score. If you already have a standardized test score on file but you are taking another standardized test in the future, you can ask on your application that we wait until that score is released before marking your application complete. Otherwise, we will complete your file with the standardized test score on file. If you would like us to wait for a future test score, please (1) indicate you would like us to wait on your application and (2) indicate the date of your future test score. If you indicate you would like us to wait but do not include a future test date on your application, your file will be marked incomplete until you provide the future test date.
*Exception: If you have a GRE or GMAT score on file and you plan to take a future LSAT, please request we wait for the future LSAT score in your application and indicate the date of your future LSAT in your application. We will wait for your future LSAT score to complete your file.
For how long is my LSAT, GRE, or GMAT score valid?
An LSAT score is considered valid for five years. More information on valid LSAT scores is available on LSAC's website on score reports. Depending on when you took the GRE, the GRE score is valid for five years from the date you took the test or for five years following the year in which you tested. GRE scores earned prior to July 2015 are no longer reportable. See ETS's website on score reports for more detailed information. GMAT scores are valid for five years.
Does the Admissions Committee read the LSAT, GRE, and GMAT writing samples?
We read the writing samples, and you should take it seriously. Remember you are applying for a professional program and it reflects very poorly on an applicant's judgment when we see a writing sample that reflects a lack of effort or professionalism.
Additionally, please note, for applicants submitting an LSAT score, you must have at least one LSAT writing sample on file (either from a previous paper examination or from the digital LSAT Writing) in order for LSAC to generate a CAS Report and for your file to be marked complete. If you have not already done so, please remember to complete the LSAT Writing. Your file will not be marked as complete until we have received at least one writing sample. For more information, please visit LSAT Writing.
I have submitted my GRE (or GMAT) score to ETS (or GMAC) but my status checker says my CAS report has not been received. How do I send my CAS report to you?
Your CAS report will automatically be sent to us when we waive the LSAT for you. We will waive the LSAT for you when we process your application. It takes approximately two to four weeks after you apply to process your application.