To register for the LSAT, you create a free LSAC account, pick a test date, and pay the $253 fee. It takes about 15 minutes online. The key is to register before the deadline, which is usually about 5 to 6 weeks before the test. For ID, fee and eligibility rules, read LSAT requirements.
This guide walks you through each step, lists the 2026-2027 LSAT dates and registration deadlines, and explains what the deadline controls.
2026-2027 LSAT Dates and Registration Deadlines
| Test | Test Dates | Registration Deadline | Score Release |
|---|---|---|---|
| September 2026 | Sept 9 to 12, 2026 | July 28, 2026 | Sept 30, 2026 |
| October 2026 | Oct 7 to 10, 2026 | Aug 27, 2026 | Oct 28, 2026 |
| November 2026 | Nov 11 to 14, 2026 | Oct 1, 2026 | Dec 2, 2026 |
| January 2027 | Jan 13 to 16, 2027 | Dec 1, 2026 | Feb 3, 2027 |
| February 2027 | Feb 12 to 13, 2027 | Dec 29, 2026 | Mar 3, 2027 |
| April 2027 | Apr 8 to 10, 2027 | Feb 25, 2027 | Apr 28, 2027 |
| June 2027 | Jun 9 to 12, 2027 | Apr 29, 2027 | Jun 30, 2027 |
These are the U.S. and Canada dates from LSAC. There is also a February 2027 LSAT in Puerto Rico (Feb 18 to 20, deadline Jan 5, 2027). Always confirm dates on LSAC before you register, since they can change. See all dates in our LSAT test dates guide.
How to Register for the LSAT: Step by Step
- Create an LSAC account. Go to LSAC.org and sign up. It is free. Use the same legal name that is on your photo ID.
- Apply for a fee waiver first (if you need one). If money is tight, ask for an LSAC fee waiver before you pay. LSAC does not refund fees you already paid.
- Request accommodations (if you need them). If you have a disability and need extra time or other help, ask by the registration deadline. See LSAT accommodations.
- Choose your test administration. Pick the month you want, such as January or April.
- Plan for a test center. Since August 2026, most people must take the LSAT at a test center. If you live more than 180 miles or about 3 hours from one, you can ask for a remote exception. See remote LSAT vs test center.
- Pay the fee. The LSAT costs $253 for 2026-2027. You can add Score Preview for $46 now (it costs $87 later).
- Schedule your exact day and time. After you register, LSAC opens scheduling. Pick your day and start time as early as you can. Popular times fill up fast.
- Plan your writing section. LSAT Argumentative Writing is taken online on your own schedule. You must finish it before LSAC will release your score.
What the Registration Deadline Controls
The registration deadline matters for more than just signing up. For most tests, it is also the last day to:
- Register for that test
- Request disability accommodations
- Request assistive technology
- Change your test date for free
- Withdraw and get a full refund
After the deadline, changes cost money:
| Test Date Change | Cost |
|---|---|
| On or before the deadline | Free |
| Within 7 days after the deadline | $153 |
| 8 or more days after the deadline | $253 |
So before each deadline, ask yourself: “Will I be ready?” If your practice scores are far from your goal, move to a later date while it is still free.
What You Need to Register
- A valid email address
- Your full legal name, exactly as it is on your photo ID
- A credit or debit card (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or Discover), or an approved LSAC fee waiver
- Your preferred test month, and a test center you can reach
If the name on your LSAC account does not match your ID, you may not be allowed to test. Fix any name issues before test day.
How Early Should You Register?
Register as soon as you know which month you want. Here is why:
- Better times. You get more choice of days, start times, and test centers.
- Less stress. You have a fixed date to plan your studying around.
- You can still move it. Date changes are free until the deadline, so registering early has little risk.
Most students study for 2 to 4 months. A good plan is to take a practice test first, set a goal, and then register for a test about 3 months away. Check your practice score with our LSAT score calculator to see how far you are from your target.
Which LSAT Date Should You Pick?
Think about your law school application timeline. Many schools use rolling admissions, so applying earlier can help.
- Applying in the fall: A June, September, or October test gives you time to retake before most deadlines.
- Need a retake: Leave room for one more test before you apply. You can take the LSAT more than once. See how many times you can take the LSAT.
- January or February test: This is often the last score many schools will accept for that cycle. Check each school’s policy.
For a month-by-month plan, read our law school application timeline.
How Much Does Registration Cost?
The LSAT costs $253, and that includes the writing section. When you apply to law school, you will also pay $219 for CAS and $45 for each school report. See every fee and real budget examples in our LSAT cost guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
When is the LSAT registration deadline?
Each test has its own deadline, usually about 5 to 6 weeks before test day. For example, the January 2027 deadline is December 1, 2026. See the table above.
Can I register for the LSAT after the deadline?
Usually no. Once the deadline passes, you will need to register for a later test. Check LSAC in case a late option is offered.
Can I change my LSAT date after I register?
Yes. It is free until the registration deadline. After that, it costs $153 or $253, depending on how late you are.
How do I register for the LSAT Writing section?
You do not register for it separately. It is included when you sign up for the LSAT. You take it online on your own schedule.
Can I take the LSAT at home?
Usually not anymore. Since August 2026, the multiple choice LSAT is given at test centers. Remote testing is only for approved exceptions, such as distance from a center. LSAT Writing is still online.
The Bottom Line
Registering for the LSAT is simple: make an LSAC account, pick a test, pay $253, and then schedule your day and time. The most important thing is the registration deadline, because it also controls accommodations, free date changes, and refunds. Register early, pick a date that leaves room for a retake, and keep an eye on your practice scores so you can move your date for free if you need to.
Related LSAT Planning Guides
- LSAT test dates
- What is the LSAT?
- How long is the LSAT?
- LSAT test day checklist
- Should I retake the LSAT?
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.
- LSAC: LSAT Dates, Deadlines, and Score Release Dates
- LSAC: LSAT and CAS Fees
- LSAC: About the LSAT
- LSAC: Applying to Law School
New to LSAC? Learn how to set up your account, find your LSAC number, and use CAS in our LSAC account and CAS guide. Missed a deadline? See is it too late to take the LSAT.