An often overlooked element of LSAT prep is choosing the right LSAT test location. Your LSAT test location will be the environment in which you take the exam, and, of course, that can have a big effect on your LSAT performance. If you are cramped, or if the location is noisy, it can really affect your mental focus. Below are 4 tips for choosing the right LSAT test location.

1. Narrow down the choices by choosing those LSAT test locations closest to you

For obvious reasons, you should choose an LSAT Test Location that is close to your place of residence. However, you do not necessarily want to choose the closest LSAT test location since it may not provide the best facilities. What you should do is narrow down your final LSAT test location to a handful of locations most closely located to your place of residence. If you live in a densely populated state, this may mean five locations; if you don’t, this may mean two. Bottom line, select a few options that are reachable from your place on test day. (Options are available here.)

2. Visit LSAT test locations to see which one you prefer

Once you have narrowed down the list of LSAT Test Locations to those that are closest to you, you can begin to make your final choice. Online resources such as test rating surveys can be useful.  (One is available here.)  Nothing takes the place of actually visiting the LSAT test location yourself, however. Determine which classrooms the test is administered in, and take a look at the size of the desks, the lighting, and the noise level. Most important, get a feel for the place and see if it makes you comfortable. As described more fully in one of our LSAT e-books, this is a very important element in your LSAT preparation.

3. Register for your LSAT test location as soon as you can

LSAT test locations are given out on a first-come, first served, basis. Thus, it is smart to choose your LSAT test location early in the game in order to limit the possibility that the best LSAT test locations are taken. Although it is tempting to procrastinate, you should not do so here. As soon as you are certain that you will be taking the LSAT, you should register LSAC’s website and choose the location of your choice.

4. Take a practice exam at your LSAT test location

After you have chosen your LSAT test location, try to take a practice exam there under similar conditions. That means you should wake up early, drive down to the LSAT test location, sit down, and take a practice exam. This will simulate test conditions and give you a feel for how long your drive will be on the day of the exam. It may sound silly, but doing these minor steps will give you a big psychological advantage the day of the LSAT.

Choosing the right LSAT test location isn’t complicated, but it is important.

Follow the tips above, and do so early, and you will find the perfect LSAT test location.  Well . . . as “perfect” as such a location can be!

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