International
The LNAT Test Explained
We take a look at the LNAT test and what is required
The LNAT Test, short for the National Admissions Test for Law, a computer-based testing programme, is the entrance examination that various UK universities use to select student for their undergraduate law programmes.
Structure The LNAT test takes two hours and consists of two parts. The first section on consists of multiple-choice questions lasting 80 minutes. The second section, lasting for the remaining 20 minutes, provides an essay-type question. The multiple-choice section consists of ten passages.
Each passage has three questions that test the reasoning sills of the student. The second section of the LNAT test lists questions on a variety of topics in which students must select a question and provide a simple and concise response.
Admissions tutors will use this section of the LNAT test as a way of assessing a candidates writing skills, their ability to analyse an issue and provide a clear and logical viewpoint.
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'The idea is not to learn by regurgitating facts in the test, but to think, analyse and logically reason the various sides and opinions on a given matter.'
It is the individual law schools that evaluate the LNAT test once complete. Schools will then assess the content of the answers provided based on their own selection and admission criteria. Eligibility Students are required to take the LNAT test if they intend to study an undergraduate law degree at one of the nine participating universities (listed below).
For all universities involved you will still have to apply via UCAS. Universities require students to complete the LNAT test in addition to this application.
Here is a list of the law schools that require students to complete the LNAT test:
- Birmingham University
- Bristol University
- Durham University
- Glasgow University
- King’s College London
- Leeds University
- Nottingham University
- Oxford University
- University College London
Preparing for the LNAT test The LNAT test assesses your intellectual abilities, not your knowledge of a particular subject. As such, you will be required to ‘cram’ before the LNAT test as you will not be required to list a succession of facts. With this said, you will probably be thinking what you can do to prepare? The best way to prepare for the LNAT test is to stay updated with the latest happenings around the world by reading a good newspaper, understand the opinions and viewpoints being put forward and try to form your own opinion on the matter.
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You should also brush up your knowledge and skills on a variety of general subjects. The idea is not to learn by regurgitating facts in the test, but to think, analyse and logically reason the various sides and opinions on a given matter.
Practice tests and sample essay questions are provided by LNAT including suggested reading material, so one should scan through the website thoroughly and attempt some of the example questions. You can also make use of online tutorials where sample tests are available, but remember that these will usually involve spending some money.
If you do not want to take that route, stay in top form by doing your homework diligently. Applying for the LNAT test Students wishing to appear for the LNAT must register online. This is a two-step process: first, create a web account, then book and pay for a test appearance. Detailed guidelines on registration and booking are available at the LNAT site – http://www.lnat.ac.uk.
Registration starts from 1 August, and UCAS applications from 1 September. Test sessions begin from 1 September onwards and it is recommended that you time your registration to have ample time to initiate the application process. LNAT Test entrance fees for UK candidates is £ 40 and for others £ 60. Fees must be paid in full at the time of booking, else no place will be confirmed.
