LSAT Accommodations — ADD, ADHD & Other Accommodations
It seems that, by far, the most difficult LSAT accommodation to acquire is the request for extra time due to ADD, ADHD, a processing deficiency, or a learning disability. To acquire this accommodation, you must submit a very complete assessment report. The documentation must detail the impact that your impairment has on your ability to perform the LSAT under normal timed conditions. See LSAC.org for the required accommodations packet.
If you receive additional test time LSAC will include a statement with your reports that advises your score be “interpreted with great sensitivity and flexibility.” (What does that mean?) Also, the score you receive will be reported individually and will not be averaged standard time scores. (Hard to say what impact, if any, this has for your admission to law school, but we do know what impact a low score has.)
Some Suggested LSAT Accommodations for ADD and ADHD
Possible accommodations might be:
- a private, distraction-free room
- extra time
- breaks between sections
- use of a computer for the essay portion
- use of scratch paper
- alternate answer sheet
- If medications cause thirst or stomach upset, then requesting the ability to use a water bottle, etc. might be considered.
A huge reason that the LSAT is difficult, is because of the time restrictions. Therefore, LSAC makes it very difficult to acquire that extra time.
Some Considerations LSAC Uses when Considering Extra Time for ADD and ADHD
- If you have scored 150 or above on a previous LSAT without using extra time, it is unlikely that you will be granted extra time.
- If you take medication, LSAT assumes that the medication takes care of your disadvantage, you may be denied.
- Lack of documentation of your disability will make your claim seem questionable. Diagnosis at an early age is an advantage. However, more recent documentation of your disability will also be required.
- Documentation that you have received the extra time accommodation on other tests (GRE, SAT, etc.) will help you acquire extra time on the LSAT
- If you pursue hiring a medical professional to diagnose you make sure it is someone who is familiar with test-taking accommodations for the LSAT….not just a diagnosis for the purpose of getting accommodations under the Americans with Disabilities Act. Proceed with caution, this avenue can cost thousands of dollars….consider whether it is a worthwhile pursuit.
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: Should I request LSAT accommodations
Tags: LSAT Accommodations
