LNAT FAQs – The Big List of Frequently Asked Questions About the LNAT 2024 and 2025

In this article, we will briefly answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the LNAT 2024 and 2025.

These questions have been grouped into various categories, based on their context. Check out the other articles on our website which cover the LNAT preparation strategy in depth.

In the next part of this article, we will cover the LNAT FAQs specifically asked about each of the LNAT universities.

If you have a question that is not covered in this FAQs list, just drop us an email or use the ‘Contact Us‘ page, and we’ll be happy to answer your query.

This FAQs page supplements the list provided on the official LNAT website.

As a rule, you should read all the relevant information provided on the official website, the UCAS website and the website of the university you are applying to.

And don’t forget to attempt the Free LawMint LNAT Practice Test.

LNAT Exam General Information

Who is eligible for the LNAT exam?

As such, there is no prescribed eligibility criteria for the LNAT exam. You just need to register on the official LNAT website, pay the fees, select your preferred center, choose your exam slot and take the test.

The LNAT needs to be taken by all candidates interested in applying for admission into the undergraduate Law programmes in any of the LNAT Universities. (Durham University, King’s College London, London School of Economics, SOAS, University College London, University of Bristol, University of Cambridge, University of Glasgow and University of Oxford.)

Do I need my UCAS Number to take the LNAT?

No. UCAS number is not required at the time of registration or sitting for the LNAT. As per the LNAT website, “if you do not know your UCAS ID yet, you can still register by entering 0000000000 (10 zeroes) but it will delay your UK university application(s) if you do not later return to your profile and enter your correct UCAS ID number.”

Also, “Candidates not applying to any UK university should enter 0000000000 (10 zeroes).”

What is the LNAT exam for?

The LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test or the National Admission Test for Law) is a standardized admission test required as part of the admissions process to study law at nine UK and two non-UK universities.

• In the UK: Durham University, King’s College London, London School of Economics, SOAS, University College London, University of Bristol, University of Cambridge, University of Glasgow and University of Oxford.
• Outside the UK: IE Madrid and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS).

In these universities, the LNAT is used as part of the selection process, along with academic achievements, personal statement, interviews etc.

What is the validity of LNAT?

The LNAT is valid for the specific admission cycle only and the scores are not carried forward to the next year. Think of the LNAT validity as being tied into the specific year’s UCAS admissions cycle.

Check the LNAT website ‘Dates and Deadlines‘ page, the university websites and the UCAS website for specific dates for each university.

Is there negative marking in LNAT?

No. There is no negative marking in the LNAT for any wrong answers.

There is no penalty or negative marking for any unanswered questions either.

You will just get one mark for every correct answer in the LNAT Multiple Choice Questions Section – A; and the Section – B – Essay is not marked.

The essay is sent to the universities that you have chosen to apply to. The essays are read and assessed as per the university admissions processes.

Is the LNAT multiple-choice?

Yes, Section A of the LNAT is a computer-based, multiple-choice exam with 42 questions.

The questions are based on 12 passages – 6 passages with 3 and 6 passages with 4 multiple-choice questions.

You are given 95 minutes to answer all of the questions in section A.

Section B of the LNAT is the essay section – where you have to write an essay of around 600 words on one of the three essay topics or essay questions.

LNAT Preparation

How long should I prepare for the LNAT?

Typically, if you are starting from a scratch, 2 months of regular preparation is ideal to thoroughly prepare for the LNAT.

You can crunch the preparation time to 1 month or stretch it out to 3 months – depending on how much time you can dedicate per day.

LawMint’s LNAT Practice Test Series has 30 full length practice tests – so, budget 30 days to attempt all the tests and review the answer explanations.

How do I improve my LNAT score?

The simple answer – Practice, Practice and more Practice.

In the LawMint LNAT Practice Tests series, we start with an orientation on what the LNAT is all about and how you should approach the MCQ section A and the essay section B of  the test.

Next, we move onto the 30 full length tests – which have 1260 questions, based on 360 passages from all the areas mentioned in the official LNAT information.

All questions come with an explanation – to help you understand the logic and train your thought process on how to tackle the LNAT.

What is the best way to prepare for the LNAT?

The approach that we recommend is:

1. Understand the LNAT, understand what is being assessed and how should you approach this test.
2. Start with the basic overview material included in the LawMint LNAT Practice Series.
3. Attempt at least 1 full length practice test per day and review all the explanations – complete all the 30 full length tests at least once.
4. Attempt the official sample paper tests mid-way during your preparation.
5. Attempt the official online LNAT simulator during the week before your exam date to become familiar with the exam interface.

In simple words, the best way to prepare for and ace the LNAT is to get extensive practice and maintain a steady preparation pace.

How long does it take to prepare for the LNAT?

Following the recommendation for the LawMint LNAT Practice Test Series,

• the maximum preparation time is 3 months
• ideal preparation time is 2 months
• dedicated preparation time is 1 month

LNAT Multiple Choice Section A

How many multiple-choice questions are on the LNAT?

Section A of the LNAT has 42 multiple-choice questions, based on 12 comprehension passages – 6 passages with 3 multiple-choice questions each and 6 passages with 4 multiple-choice questions each.

How do I ace LNAT section A?

The approach that we recommend is:

1. First, understand the LNAT, understand what is being assessed and how should you approach this test.
2. Start with the basic overview material included in the LawMint LNAT Practice Series.
3. Attempt at least 1 full length practice test per day and review all the explanations – complete all 30 full length tests at least once.
4. Attempt the official sample paper tests mid-way during your preparation.
5. Attempt the official online LNAT simulator during the week before your exam date to become familiar with the exam interface.
6. With ideally around 2 months of consistent practice, you are all set to ace the LNAT.

How long do I have for the LNAT Multiple Choice Questions?

The entire LNAT needs to be completed within 2 hours and 15 minutes; of which, you have 95 minutes to complete Section A – which consists of 42 multiple-choice questions.

How to get better at LNAT MCQ?

In the LawMint LNAT Practice Tests series, we start with an orientation on what the LNAT is all about and how you should approach the MCQ section A and the essay section B of the test.

Next, we move onto the 30 full length tests – which have 1260 questions, based on 360 passages from all the areas mentioned in the official LNAT information.

All questions come with an explanation – to help you understand the logic and train your thought process on how to tackle the LNAT.

The best way to get better at solving Section A LNAT MCQs is to practice with as many passages and questions as possible, under timed conditions.

LNAT Essay Section B

How many words should you write for the LNAT essay?

An ideal LNAT section B essay should be between 500 and 600 words long – which is approximately the text required to fill-in one A4 sheet.

The maximum recommended length is 750 words. Remember, a crisp well written essay will get better scores than a poorly written long essay.

How do I write an essay for the LNAT?

The LNAT essay is assessing your ability to understand the topic, argue economically and to come to a conclusion. You will need a good command of written English.

For guidance on how to write the LNAT essay, the structure and the format to be used, refer to our separate article on LNAT section B, which also includes a question bank of 90+ LNAT essay questions.

What are the topics for the LNAT essay?

In section B of the LNAT, you will be given a choice of three questions, of which you have to choose one and write a 500 – 600 word essay to answer the question.

The questions may be on any topic, on which you can present multiple viewpoints and choose your preferred argument.

Some examples of LNAT essay questions:

• Are whistleblowers morally justified in breaking the law to expose corruption?
• Are zero-tolerance policies in schools effective in promoting discipline and safety?
• Artificial Intelligence will not significantly transform the legal sector. Share your perspective.

For guidance on how to write the LNAT essay, the structure and the format to be used, refer to our separate article on LNAT section B, which also includes a question bank of 90+ LNAT essay questions.

Is the LNAT essay handwritten?

No. The LNAT is completely a computer based test. You have to type the essay into the text box in the LNAT testing system.

It is therefore very essential to get a good amount of practice using a regular keyboard and practice typing without making too many spelling or grammatical errors.

How long do I have for the LNAT essay?

The entire LNAT is for 2 hours and 15 minutes (135 minutes), of which, you have 40 minutes to complete the LNAT essay section B.

Ideally, you should complete the LNAT essay within 30 minutes and use the remaining 10 minutes for edits and corrections.

Is the LNAT essay important?

Yes. The LNAT essay is quite important for at least 6 of the 9 LNAT universities. The essay section of the test assesses whether you can:

• Write a persuasive and balanced argument.
• Use evidence to support your argument and not just opinion.
• Write a well structured and logical essay.
• Use good English skills – including grammar, spelling, sentence structure and punctuation correctly.
• Write about the latest happenings in the world around you.

The essay may be used as one of the selection criteria, or it can be used as a differentiating factor between applicants who otherwise have similar profiles.

Is there a word count for LNAT?

An ideal LNAT section B essay should be between 500 to 600 words long – which is approximately the text required to fill-in one A4 sheet.

The maximum recommended length is 750 words. Remember, a crisp well written essay will get better scores than a poorly written long essay.

LNAT Scores

What is the highest LNAT score ever?

Theoretically, the maximum possible score in the LNAT MCQ section A is 42/42.

If you look at the admission statistics from Oxford university for a few recent years, the highest MCT score we have seen is 38/42. (In 2021-22, it was 37/42.)

What is the lowest LNAT score?

If a test taker does not answer any question, then the score will be 0/42.

The more useful statistic would be the lowest LNAT score achieved by an offer holder, which will vary for each university.

Among universities that do not have a LNAT cut-off score, the lowest we have seen among offer holders in recent years is 6/42. This however will be an exception, since the applicant will have excellent academics and exceptional scores in other selection parameters.

Is 27 a good score on LNAT?

Yes. Oxford usually attracts applicants with high LNAT scores. Therefore, we can use it as a benchmark to understand if 27 is a good score.

In 2021-22, the lowest average LNAT MC score for shortlisted candidates was 27.03 and the average for offered candidates was 28.25.

For 2022-23, the lowest offered candidate LNAT MCQ score was 19 and the average was 30.

Therefore, 27 is a very good score on the LNAT Multiple choice test section A.

Is 35 a good LNAT score?

Yes. 35 is an exceptional LNAT score.

If you look at the admission statistics from Oxford university for a few recent years, the highest MCT score we have seen is 38/42. (In 2021-22, it was 37/42.)

Therefore, 35 is an exceptionally good score – which places the candidate among the top applicants for any LNAT university.

When will I receive my LNAT score?

Depending on when your sit for the LNAT, the results are communicated to you by email in two batches:

• If you take the LNAT on or before January 26, you will receive your results email by mid-February.
• If you take the LNAT after January 26, you will receive your results email by mid-August. The LNAT website does not mention any specific ‘communication date’ for your results.

In any case, your LNAT scores will be available directly to the universities you have indicated in your LNAT registration, so don’t worry about the specific result dates.

This means you won’t know your score when applying to your chosen universities.

What is a good LNAT score?

As such there is no minimum passing score for the LNAT; and the average scores keep changing from year to year.

However, looking at the admissions statistics from recent years, any score of 27 or higher in the LNAT can be considered to be good.

What is the average LNAT score?

The average scores for LNAT MCT section A from recent years is as below:

How long are LNAT scores valid?

LNAT scores are valid for the UCAS admissions cycle of the year when you take the test.

LNAT scores are not carried over the the next admissions cycles.

What happens if you get a low LNAT score?

A low LNAT score significantly reduces your chances of getting an admission into one of the LNAT universities.

While the lowest scores among offer holders in recent years may have been 13 ~ 16, this tends to be an exceptions – since such applicants usually have higher academic scores or perform better in other selection parameters.

Ideally, aim to score at least 27 in the LNAT section A; and ensure that you write a well crafted essay for section B.

A low LNAT score does not automatically lead to disqualification (unless the university has a minimum cut-off) and a high LNAT does not automatically guarantee an admission.

What is a bad LNAT score?

As such, there is no ‘minimum’ LNAT score or any specific official passing score.

However, let’s be practical. Any score of 17 or lower significantly reduces your chances of getting an admission in one of the LNAT universities – unless you have exceptional scores in other parameters such as A-levels, LNAT essay, personal statement, interview etc.

LNAT Exam Specifics

Can you use control F on the LNAT?

No, the you cannot use the control F function or ‘Find’ anywhere in the LNAT testing system.

You cannot search / find text in the MCQ section of the LNAT or the essay screens.

The essay section of the LNAT testing system has ‘cut’, ‘copy’, ‘paste’, ‘undo’ and ‘redo’ functions (using the buttons above the essay pane).

Does the LNAT essay section have spelling check?

No. There are no word-processing functions in the LNAT essay test box. e.g. no spell check or grammar check.

The system does have a built-in word counter at the bottom of the essay pane.

Can you highlight text in the LNAT?

No, you cannot highlight / search / find text in the LNAT test screens.

The essay section of the LNAT testing system has ‘cut’, ‘copy’, ‘paste’, ‘undo’ and ‘redo’ functions (using the buttons above the essay pane).

There are no other word-processing functions, e.g. no spell check.

Is LawMint LNAT Practice Test harder than the real LNAT?

Yes. For better practice, the questions in the LawMint LNAT Practice Tests are designed to be a little harder than the real LNAT.

The questions in the LawMint LNAT Practice Tests range between easy, medium and hard – with more questions leaning towards medium and hard.

Is there a break between Section A and B of LNAT?

No, there is no break between the comprehension MCQ Section A and the essay section B of the LNAT.

The entire test is for 135 minutes; but each section is timed separately. You can end section A before the maximum allotted time and move to section B.

As per the official instructions “You can change your answers at any time until the end of the 95 minutes set aside for the multiple choice test. The system lets you flag questions for review, so that you can go back to unanswered or difficult questions when you have completed the rest. You cannot go back to the multiple choice section from the essay section. Each is separately timed. Your time remaining for the section you are on always appears on the top right of the screen.”

Can the time saved in the MCQ section of the LNAT be used for section B?

No. Time saved in one section cannot be used or carried over to the next section.

The maximum time allowed for both the sections together is 135 minutes.

You have to complete the MCQ section of the LNAT in 95 minutes. You can end section A early and move to section B. But any time saved in section A will not be carried over to section B.

When you start section B – the essay section of the LNAT, the timer will start counting down from 40 minutes.

Important! – You should always validate all the information available on this website against the official sources. Check the LNAT official website, the UCAS website and the University websites to ensure you have the latest and most accurate information for your purpose.