Illinois has 21 LSAT testing centers across the state. The testing centers are usually on college and university campuses, such as Illinois Wesleyan University in Bloomington and Northern Illinois University in Dekalb. Chicago has eight testing centers, including centers at Kenwood Academy, the University of Chicago and Loyola University. Verify that you know exactly at which testing center you are taking the LSAT, especially in places that have many, like Chicago.
The LSAT is offered in June, October, December and February of each year. Not all testing centers offer tests during all testing sessions. For example, the testing center at the University of Chicago offers tests only in October while the testing center at Eastern Illinois University in Charleston offers tests during all four sessions. Check with your testing center's office to verify its availability.
Testing centers are assigned different codes that help the national testing organization and test takers verify the center's information and credibility. The testing centers in Illinois are all four digits and begin with "50." For example, the testing center at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale is listed as 5001 and the center at Weaton College in Wheaton is 5038.
While these codes allow you to search for a specific testing center, they are not intended to be used on any academic record data.
Testing centers in Illinois, as elsewhere, have limited seating availability for test days. You should register to take the LSAT well in advance, and verify your registration as the date approaches. When you register for the LSAT, you will be asked for which testing center or centers you would like to use; make sure you know the code for the testing center closest to you. Based on availability, you may not be able to be assigned to your first choice.
You should arrive at your testing center at least 15 minutes early to ensure that you have enough time to check in; most testing centers have a deadline for when you must be there, which should be printed on your ticket. Make sure that you have your admission ticket with you, or you may not be allowed in to take the test. Also bring with you two types of identification. Certain items are prohibited inside the testing centers; this information is available on the Law School Admission Council website (see Resources).