The LSAT takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. That is four 35-minute sections plus one 10-minute break. The writing part adds 50 more minutes, and you can take it on a different day.
When you add check-in time, plan for about 3 to 3.5 hours on test day. This guide shows how long each LSAT section is, what each one tests, and how to plan your day.
LSAT Length at a Glance
| Part of the Test | Time |
|---|---|
| Section 1 | 35 minutes |
| Section 2 | 35 minutes |
| Break | 10 minutes |
| Section 3 | 35 minutes |
| Section 4 | 35 minutes |
| Multiple-choice total | 2 hours 30 minutes |
| Argumentative Writing (separate) | 50 minutes |
| Check-in (remote or test center) | About 30 minutes |
LSAC sets these times. The break always comes between the second and third sections.
What Are the LSAT Sections?
Since August 2024, the LSAT has four multiple-choice sections. Three are scored and one is not.
| Section | How Many | Time Each | About How Many Questions | Scored? |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Logical Reasoning | 2 | 35 minutes | 24 to 26 | Yes |
| Reading Comprehension | 1 | 35 minutes | 26 to 28 | Yes |
| Variable (unscored) | 1 | 35 minutes | 24 to 28 | No |
| Argumentative Writing | 1 | 50 minutes | 1 essay | No, but sent to schools |
The sections can come in any order. So you might start with Reading Comprehension one time and Logical Reasoning the next.
Logical Reasoning (2 Sections)
Each Logical Reasoning question is a short paragraph, usually an argument, with one question about it. You may be asked to find a flaw, find an assumption, or pick the answer that makes the argument stronger or weaker.
With about 25 questions in 35 minutes, you have about 1 minute and 20 seconds per question. Because there are two sections, Logical Reasoning makes up about two-thirds of your score. That makes it the most important skill to practice. See all the Logical Reasoning question types.
Reading Comprehension (1 Section)
This section has four passages. Each one has 5 to 8 questions. One set is two short passages that you compare to each other.
That gives you about 8 to 9 minutes per passage, including reading and answering. Many students find this section the hardest to speed up, so practice with a timer. See the Reading Comprehension question types.
The Variable Section (Unscored)
One of your four sections does not count. LSAC uses it to try out new questions for future tests. It will be either Logical Reasoning or Reading Comprehension.
You will not know which section it is. It looks the same as the others. So treat every section like it counts.
Argumentative Writing
The writing part gives you a debate topic and a few short sources. You then write an essay that argues for one side.
- 15 minutes to read and plan (you can move on after 5 minutes)
- 35 minutes to write
You take it online at home, at a time you choose. It does not change your 120 to 180 score, but law schools get a copy. LSAC will not release your score until you finish it. For tips, read LSAT writing: what it is and how much it matters and how to prepare for LSAT writing.
Is There Still a Logic Games Section?
No. The Analytical Reasoning section, also called Logic Games, was removed in August 2024. A second Logical Reasoning section took its place. The total test time stayed about the same. Read about the new LSAT format.
How Many Questions Are on the LSAT?
The scored part of the LSAT has about 75 to 78 questions. With the variable section, you will answer about 100 questions in total.
Your raw score is the number of scored questions you get right. There is no penalty for wrong answers, so always guess if you run out of time. LSAC then turns your raw score into a scaled score from 120 to 180. You can try this with our raw score calculator.
How Long Is LSAT Test Day?
Your total time depends on how you take the test.
Taking the LSAT at Home
For a remote test, you log in a little early. A proctor checks your ID and looks at your room through your webcam. This usually takes 15 to 30 minutes. Then the 2.5-hour test begins. Plan for about 3 hours in total.
Taking the LSAT at a Test Center
At a test center, you should arrive about 30 minutes early for check-in. You will lock up your things and get seated. Plan for about 3 to 3.5 hours, plus travel time.
Not sure which is better for you? Compare remote LSAT vs test center. And use our LSAT test day checklist so nothing goes wrong.
Timing Tips for Each Section
- Do not get stuck. If a question takes more than 2 minutes, guess, flag it, and move on.
- Answer every question. There is no penalty for wrong answers.
- Practice with the real timer. Always time yourself at 35 minutes per section.
- Take full tests. Sit four sections in a row with a 10-minute break to build focus for test day.
- Use your break well. Stand up, drink water, and eat a small snack. Do not think about the sections you just finished.
If timing is your biggest problem, a good study plan helps a lot. Start with our LSAT study plan for beginners or see how to improve your LSAT score.
Can You Get Extra Time on the LSAT?
Yes, if you have a documented disability. LSAC offers accommodations like extra time and extra breaks. With 50 percent extra time, each section becomes about 52 minutes. You must ask for accommodations by the registration deadline. Read our guide to LSAT accommodations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the LSAT in hours?
The multiple-choice LSAT is 2.5 hours, including a 10-minute break. The writing part adds 50 minutes. With check-in, plan for about 3 to 3.5 hours.
How many sections are on the LSAT?
There are four multiple-choice sections: two Logical Reasoning, one Reading Comprehension, and one unscored variable section. There is also one writing section.
How long is each LSAT section?
Each multiple-choice section is 35 minutes. The writing section is 50 minutes: 15 to plan and 35 to write.
Is there a break during the LSAT?
Yes. There is one 10-minute break between the second and third sections.
Do you take the writing section on the same day?
Not usually. You take it online on your own schedule. You just have to finish it before LSAC will release your score.
The Bottom Line
The LSAT is 2 hours and 30 minutes long: four 35-minute sections and a 10-minute break. Two sections are Logical Reasoning, one is Reading Comprehension, and one is an unscored test section. The 50-minute writing part comes separately. Plan for about 3 to 3.5 hours on test day, and practice with a timer so 35 minutes feels normal. When you finish a practice test, check where you stand with our LSAT score calculator.
Official Sources to Check
Use this guide for planning, then verify current test rules, score reporting, application requirements, and school disclosures with primary sources before making final decisions.