LSAT Study Plan for College Students

Quick answer: if you are in college, use a break for your heaviest study, and spread the basics across a term at around 8 to 12 hours a week. Your GPA matters too, so do not let the LSAT sink your grades.

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College Student LSAT Study Plan

Phase	What to do	Weekly time
During term	Learn basics in small blocks, 1 to 2 hours on most days.	8 to 12 hours
Summer or long break	Heaviest study, with a full test each week.	15 to 25 hours
Final month	Timed sections and full tests, with close review.	15 hours
Exam weeks	Light practice only, and protect your grades.	2 to 4 hours

These are suggestions. Adjust them to your starting score and your target. Start with a diagnostic test, and set your goal with what LSAT score do I need.

Tips for College Student

Your GPA is hard to change later, so protect it. Check the numbers with the LSAC GPA calculator.
Summer before senior year is a common time to study, if you are going straight through.
Leave room for a retake before applications.
Check test dates against your exam calendar.

What to Study With

Start with LSAC’s four free official PrepTests and the free lessons on LawHub. Add one strong book if you want. See the best LSAT prep books and free LSAT prep.

Need a full calendar? See the LSAT study schedule with 1, 3 and 6 month plans.

When to Take the LSAT in College

If you plan to go straight to law school, many students test in the summer or early fall before senior year applications. That leaves time for a retake. Applying early can also help, since many schools use rolling admissions. There is no rule that you must go straight through, and some students do better after a year or two of work.

FAQ

Can I study for the LSAT during the semester?

Yes, with shorter sessions. A summer or long break works best for heavy study.

What matters more, GPA or LSAT?

Both matter, and most schools weigh the LSAT heavily. You can check both in the admissions calculator.

What is a good LSAT score for college students?

It is the same as for anyone, based on your target schools. See what is a good LSAT score.