The Law School Admissions Test (LSAT) is a standardized test that helps law schools evaluate the ability to excel. Many students take the LSAT a year before applying to law school so they can retake it if necessary. Generally, the more prestigious a law school, the higher the required LSAT scores. Upper-tier schools prefer scores of 160 to 175, but many schools accept LSAT scores ranging from 140 to 160.
Law schools consider applicants' grade point average (GPA) from college, as well as the type and number of classes they took. The competitiveness of the school--as well as the applicant's major--can dictate what is an acceptable GPA. But even less competitive schools usually prefer a GPA that is higher than 3.0.
Law schools often ask applicants to provide a writing sample, either a personal statement or essay. In addition to demonstrating writing, research and organization skills, this sample also gives applicants the opportunity to distinguish themselves to the admissions panel.