A committee within the American Bar Association recommended late last month that law schools eliminate the requirement of “a valid and reliable admission test” as part of their admission process. However, “Law schools of course remain free to require a test if they wish.”

Dropping the testing requirement would be a major shift, as the LSAT plays an outsized role in law school admission and financial aid decisions. 

Studies have shown significant disparity in LSAT scores across racial groups. A 2019 study found the average score for Black LSAT takers was 142, compared to 153 for white and Asian test takers.

Critics have also pointed to uneven access to LSAT preparation programs, and the fees associated with the test itself. The LSAT, which was taken by 121,000 people during the 2021 application cycle, costs $200 for test-takers. The LSAC charges another $195 for its law school application service. The nonprofit offers fee waivers to those in financial need.

The wider climate surrounding standardized admission tests has also shifted since 2018. A significant number of colleges and universities have gone test optional, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.