Expert Insights

Wat Is the LNAT?

Published 19th September 2025 by Alastair

The Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) is an admissions test used by many UK universities to assess candidates applying for undergraduate law degrees.

It is not a test of legal knowledge. Instead, it evaluates the skills you will need to succeed as a law student: reasoning, interpretation, and the ability to construct a clear, logical argument.

Understanding what the LNAT involves and how it fits into your university application is the first step in preparing effectively. This guide explains the structure of the test, why it exists, and how universities use the results.

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Why Does the LNAT Exist?

Law is one of the most competitive courses in the UK. With so many applicants achieving top A level grades, admissions tutors need another way to differentiate between strong candidates.

The LNAT was introduced in 2004 to provide a standardised measure of aptitude. It allows universities to compare applicants fairly, regardless of their academic background or where they went to school. The test focuses on critical thinking and communication skills, which are essential for studying law but not always measured by traditional exams.

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The Structure of the LNAT

The LNAT lasts 2 hours and 15 minutes and is split into two sections:

Section A: Multiple-Choice Questions

Format: 42 multiple-choice questions based on 12 passages of text.
Timing: 95 minutes.
Skills tested: Critical reading, comprehension, and logical reasoning.
Scoring: This section is scored out of 42 and forms your official LNAT score.

Section B: Essay

Format: One essay chosen from three possible questions.
Timing: 40 minutes.
Skills tested: Ability to develop an argument, weigh evidence, and reach a conclusion.
Scoring: The essay is not given a numerical score but is sent directly to the universities you apply to for their review.

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Which Universities Require the LNAT?

Several UK universities use the LNAT as part of their admissions process, including:

University of Oxford
University of Cambridge
University of Bristol
Durham University
University of Glasgow
King’s College London
London School of Economics (LSE)
University College London (UCL)
SOAS, University of London

Some international institutions, such as IE University in Spain and Singapore University of Social Sciences, also require it.

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How to Register for the LNAT

Register online: Create an account on the official LNAT website.
Book a slot: The test is sat at Pearson VUE test centres, with locations worldwide.
Check deadlines:
- For Oxford and Cambridge, the LNAT must be completed by mid-October (usually 15 October), in line with UCAS deadlines.
- For other universities, the deadline is later, usually in January.

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How Universities Use LNAT Results

Your LNAT performance is considered alongside your academic record, UCAS application, and personal statement. Different universities may place different weight on each section:

Oxford, for example, places particular importance on Section A scores.
Other universities may focus more on the essay, as it reveals your ability to construct a legal-style argument.

The LNAT is never the only factor in an admissions decision, but it can be decisive when comparing equally strong candidates.

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LNAT at a Glance

Section	Format	Timing	Scoring
Section A	42 multiple-choice questions on 12 passages	95 minutes	Out of 42 (official LNAT score)
Section B	One essay chosen from three prompts	40 minutes	Reviewed by universities, not numerically scored

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Conclusion

The LNAT is a distinctive test that focuses on skills rather than knowledge. Its purpose is to help universities identify candidates who can think critically, read with precision, and argue persuasively.

By understanding the structure, purpose, and role of the LNAT in the application process, you can begin preparing with clarity and confidence. In future sections of this guide, we will explore preparation strategies for both the multiple-choice section and the essay, along with practical tips for registration, practice, and timing.

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Frequently Asked Questions about the LNAT

No. The LNAT tests skills such as reading, reasoning, and argumentation, not legal facts.

For Oxford and Cambridge, the test must be sat by 15 October. For other universities, the deadline is usually mid-January.

You can only take the LNAT once per admissions cycle.

There is no fixed pass mark. Each university uses LNAT scores differently, but a higher Section A score combined with a strong essay will strengthen your application.