Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT)
The LNAT is a standardized, computer-based assessment used by a consortium of leading global universities to evaluate a candidate’s aptitude for undergraduate legal study. It does not measure legal knowledge; rather, it assesses verbal reasoning, information interpretation, and the ability to construct persuasive arguments.
I. Examination Structure
The LNAT is 2 hours and 15 minutes in duration and consists of two distinct components.
Component | Format | Duration | Scoring |
Section A | 42 Multiple Choice Questions (based on 12 passages) | 95 Minutes | Scored out of 42 (No negative marking) |
Section B | 1 Persuasive Essay (Selection of 1 from 3 topics) | 40 Minutes | Unscored by Pearson; evaluated by Universities |
II. Component Specifications
Section A: Verbal Reasoning
This section evaluates the candidate's ability to process complex prose and identify logical structures.
Content: 12 argumentative passages with 3 to 4 questions per passage.
Key Skills: Identifying central arguments, distinguishing fact from opinion, recognizing logical fallacies, and drawing subtle inferences.
Time Allocation: Approximately 8 minutes per passage.
Section B: Argumentative Writing
This section assesses communication skills and the ability to synthesize information into a coherent position.
Objective: Candidates must select one topic and write a balanced, evidence-based essay.
Evaluation Criteria: Clarity of thought, economy of expression, and the ability to reach a definitive conclusion through structured logic.
Length: Typically 500–600 words.
III. Institutional Requirements (2026 Cycle)
The following institutions require the LNAT for their undergraduate law admissions.
United Kingdom | International |
University of Oxford | IE University (Spain) |
University of Cambridge | Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS) |
London School of Economics (LSE) | O.P. Jindal Global Law School (India) |
University College London (UCL) | |
King’s College London (KCL) | |
Durham University | |
University of Bristol / Glasgow / Nottingham / SOAS |
IV. Mandatory Deadlines and Administrative Details
Candidates must register through the Pearson VUE portal. Testing dates are subject to availability at physical test centers.
Applicant Category | Final Testing Deadline |
Oxford and Cambridge Applicants | October 15, 2025 |
General UK University Applicants | January 20, 2026 |
Late International Applicants | June 30, 2026 |
Registration Fees:
Test Centers within the UK/EU: 75 GBP
Test Centers outside the EU: 120 GBP
V. Preparation Methodology
Critical Reading: Regular analysis of high-level editorials (e.g., The Economist or The Guardian) to improve speed and comprehension of dense material.
Logical Analysis: Practice identifying the "warrant" or underlying assumption in an argument to excel in Section A.
Essay Structuring: Adoption of a clear thesis-driven format for Section B, ensuring that the opposing viewpoint is acknowledged and logically refuted.
Simulation: Completion of timed practice tests on the official LNAT website to familiarize oneself with the on-screen interface.
Sources:
Official LNAT Consortium (lnat.ac.uk) Guidelines 2025-26.
Pearson VUE Test Delivery Specifications.
UCAS Admissions Cycle Data 2026.