LSAT Accommodations — Dyslexia, Dysgraphia, Learning Disabilities

You may request LSAT Accommodations if you have a learning disability, dyslexia, dysgraphia, a processing deficiency or any cognitive disability due to a medical, psychological, neurological or physical disorder that interferes with your abilities.

If you are in a wheelchair, or if your arm or leg is broken and in a cast, it is obvious that you are disabled. In contrast, most learning disabilities are hidden. Normally, the person’s IQ does not match the person’s reading, writing or learning ability. Therefore, LSAC requires a LOT of documentation and proof that you really do require the accommodation that you are requesting. See LSAT Accommodations for more information about the request process.

By now, you are fully aware of the difficulties you face when functioning with your impairment. I suggest that you take a few practice tests, timed and under LSAC test-taking conditions, so that you can determine how much and what accommodations you may need to meet your target score. (You don’t know what your target score is yet? Then do some research. Research or call admissions offices of the schools you are interested in to find out what LSAT score they require.)

You are also, by now, fully aware that your disability requires more effort, and longer preparation than a “normal” person. So, begin to study for the LSAT early, even before you register for the exam. This accomplishes a couple of things. First and most obviously, you will know what the test entails, and you will be able to evaluate how much progress you must make before scheduling your exam. Second, it will help you determine if and what LSAT Accommodations you may require.

Some Suggested LSAT Accommodations for Learning Disability, Dyslexia, Dysgraphia

Make a list of the accommodations you want to request. Think it through, if you have done a good number of practice tests, you have a good idea of what your needs are. Be realistic and honest with your needs—you are not looking for an unfair advantage, just a level playing field. Here are just a few suggestions:

• A reader or computer program
• An amanuensis (scribe)
• Extra time required to read the material
• Additional rest time to reduce eye strain
• Private room
• Use of scratch paper

Pros and Cons

As in most things in life, there are pros and cons to every decision. You might want to consider whether or not the time-consuming effort to acquire the accommodation is worth the effort. See: LSAT Accommodations and  Should I request LSAT accommodations.

Tags: LSAT Accommodations