LNAT Scores - How LNAT Scoring Works

How Does LNAT Scoring Work?

LNAT scoring is multifaceted, with various elements coming into play.

Section A, the multiple-choice questions (MCQs), holds a score range of 0 to 42, showcasing critical thinking abilities. Various universities, like King’s College London (KCL) and University College London (UCL), set differing score benchmarks.

Section A (MCQ): The Scored Section

Let’s dive into Section A, the multiple-choice questions (MCQs), where your critical thinking and reasoning skills take centre stage. In this section, LNAT MCQs are scored out of 42 points, encompassing a range from 0 to 42. A strong performance in Section A can lay a solid foundation for your overall LNAT score.

But what’s the score you should aim for, and how does it impact your university choices?

What LNAT Score Do I Need?

When it comes to LNAT Section A, these top London institutions are known for their competitiveness:

• King’s College London (KCL) typically looks for scores around 27.
• The bar is set a bit higher at University College London (UCL) and Durham, where scores of around 29 are typical.

What sets these universities apart is that they do not conduct interviews during their admissions process. As a result, your LNAT score and anticipated grades carry significant weight in your application.

If you believe that your LNAT score and academic performance will be the most critical aspects of your application, UCL, KCL, or Durham might be the perfect fit for you.

Average LNAT Score For LSE & Other Unis

Similar to the UCL, KCL and Durham, average LNAT scores for LSE are relatively high, with the average LNAT score for LSE  reported at around 26.

However, London isn’t the only destination for aspiring law students. The accepted LNAT score for Bristol Birmingham, Nottingham, and Glasgow  is around 25. As these universities offer excellent law programs, they do require a score higher than the national average.

If you don’t believe that the LNAT score will be the dominant factor in your application, one of these universities could be an ideal choice. The University of Glasgow, in particular, stands out as they have a slightly lower average LNAT score requirement, hovering around 23. 

LNAT Section B: Your Unscored Score

Now, let’s venture into LNAT Section B, the enigmatic essay-writing segment. While it’s officially not scored, don’t underestimate its significance. Your essay is a critical piece of your application, and different universities may have varying approaches to reviewing and assessing it.

The evaluation criteria for LNAT Section B are as follows:

• Attention to the Question: Your ability to address the essay prompt effectively.
• Critical Judgement: Your capacity for analytical thinking and critical reasoning.
• Distinctions: How well you distinguish and elaborate on key points.
• Clarity: The clarity and coherence of your writing.
• Relevance: The relevance of your arguments and examples to the essay topic.
• Sustained and Focused Treatment of Issues: Your ability to maintain a focused and in-depth discussion.
• Awareness of Multiple Lines of Argument: Whether you consider and explore various perspectives on the issue.

Following your essay submission, you’ll receive an LNAT score, ranging from zero to one hundred percent. The grading method aligns with university standards, where 70 percent or more constitutes a first, 60 percent or more is a 2.1, 50 percent or more is a 2.2, and 40 percent or more is a third. Keep in mind that universities don’t expect perfection; they recognise that you’re not writing a flawless essay.

While self-grading can be challenging, you can use the LNAT website’s sample essays as a basic guide to crafting a high-standard essay.

University Preferences

While all universities that require the LNAT consider both Section A and Section B as part of your application, some institutions place a particular emphasis on the essay portion. Here’s a breakdown of universities and their attitudes towards LNAT Section B:

High Emphasis On Section B

Oxford University and University College London (UCL) stand out as institutions that value the essay component significantly.

Moderate Emphasis on Section B

• University of Bristol places 60% weighting on Section A and 40% on Section B.
• King’s College London, University of London, University of Nottingham, and University of Glasgow also recognise the importance of Section B, albeit to a slightly lesser degree.

Lower Emphasis on Section B

SOAS typically considers Section B only if you score less than 24 on Section A.

Understanding how universities prioritise LNAT Section B can help you tailor your application strategy. If you excel in this section, consider applying to universities that value it highly. Conversely, if you believe your strengths lie more in Section A, you can explore institutions where Section B carries less weight. Remember, your LNAT journey is a multifaceted one, and your application should showcase your diverse skills and strengths.

What LNAT Score Do I Need For Oxford?

With results varying between the different LNAT universities, a good LNAT score for Oxford is generally higher than other universities.

According to Oxford University’s LNAT data for 2021/2022, the average score for candidates accepted onto an Oxford law course was 27.03 for multiple choice questions and 63.52 for the LNAT Essay section.

LNAT Score Trends

Understanding LNAT scoring also means grasping the historical trends and averages. Let’s explore the data and trends that shape the LNAT landscape:

In the 2022/23 academic year, the average LNAT score was 24.2 out of 42, equivalent to 57.6%. This marked a significant increase compared to previous years, but a decrease from the previous year’s average which was 28.2 or 67.6%

This is a chart showing Average LNAT Score Percentage Over the Years:

What’s A Good LNAT Score?

Defining the difficulty of the LNAT can be elusive, but it’s undoubtedly challenging. Since there’s no official pass score, universities take a holistic approach in assessing LNAT results. Here’s how to approach your LNAT score:

Aim for a score that surpasses the national average and aligns with the historical averages of successful applicants to your chosen universities.

Typically, a score of 27 or above places you in a favourable position. However, admission is not solely determined by your LNAT score but by your overall application.

What constitutes a low LNAT score? It’s a question that often plagues applicants. Let’s demystify the notion of a low score:

A low score can be defined as falling below the national average, which was 24 or less in 2023.

However, if your score significantly lags behind the average scores of successful applicants to your chosen LNAT universities, the university may deem it a low score.

It’s worth noting that while the lowest score accepted at Oxford was 14, this is an exception rather than the rule.

When Are LNAT Results Released?

Timing plays a crucial role in the LNAT journey. Knowing when to expect your results can help you plan your next steps:

If you take the LNAT on or before 26 January, anticipate receiving your results by mid-February.

If you take the exam after 26 January, you’ll have to wait until mid-August for your results.

Keep in mind that you won’t know your score when you apply to your shortlisted universities, so plan your application strategy wisely.

LNAT Score Validity

One aspect often overlooked by applicants is the shelf life of LNAT scores. Here’s a critical piece of information:

Your LNAT score is only valid for the year in which you took the exam. It does not carry over to the following year. If you’re reapplying to LNAT universities, you’ll need to book and take the test again through the Pearson VUE website.

Boost Your LNAT Results

Elevating your LNAT score from good to exceptional requires a multifaceted approach that combines thorough preparation with resourceful strategies. Here are some innovative steps to boost your LNAT results:

1. LNAT Guides and Practice Tests -This will not only familiarise you with the test format but also provide you with valuable resources to ace the test on the day of. 
2. Case Study Analysis – Enhance your critical thinking skills by delving into real-world legal case studies. Analysing legal scenarios will sharpen your ability to reason and evaluate complex issues, invaluable for LNAT’s multiple-choice section.
3. Creative Writing Workshops – To excel in the essay section, consider attending creative writing workshops. These workshops nurture your storytelling and argumentative abilities, ensuring your essays stand out.
4. Diverse Reading Lists – Broaden your knowledge base by exploring diverse reading lists beyond traditional legal texts. Incorporate literature, philosophy, and contemporary debates into your reading regimen to develop a well-rounded perspective.
5. Mock LNAT Interviews – Prepare for university interviews by participating in mock LNAT interviews. These simulations provide firsthand experience and feedback, boosting your confidence and interview performance.