Test-day logistics - Remote-proctoring vs in-person rules

Learning Outcomes

After reading this article, you will be able to compare the remote-proctoring and in-person LSAT test procedures, identify essential requirements for each format, and apply best practices for permitted items, room set-up, and exam conduct. This knowledge ensures you meet LSAT rules, avoid exam-day disqualification, and manage test-day logistics efficiently.

LSAT Syllabus

For the LSAT, you are required to understand and apply procedural rules for both remote-proctored and in-person testing. In preparation, focus your revision on:

• the similarities and differences between remote-proctoring and in-person LSAT formats
• required check-in procedures and ID rules for both formats
• test-day permitted items and prohibited materials
• exam environment set-up and conduct under remote supervision
• protocols for dealing with technical or environmental issues during the test

Test Your Knowledge

Attempt these questions before reading this article. If you find some difficult or cannot remember the answers, remember to look more closely at that area during your revision.

1. Which one of these items is never permitted in the remote-proctored LSAT environment?
   1. Plain paper
   2. Cellphone
   3. Non-digital watch
   4. Unlabeled water bottle
2. What must you show the proctor to start your LSAT, regardless of format?
   1. Social media profile
   2. Official photo ID
   3. College transcript
   4. Printed admission ticket only
3. In remote-proctoring, which of the following can lead to invalidation of your LSAT?
   1. Pet enters the room during the exam
   2. You briefly adjust your chair
   3. You leave the camera’s view without permission
   4. You use a scrap sheet for diagramming

4. True or false: For in-person LSATs, digital timers, calculators, and all electronics are strictly prohibited in the test room.

Introduction

Efficient test-day preparation requires a clear understanding of LSAT administrative rules for both remote-proctoring and in-person settings. Procedures differ in key ways, but both demand compliance to avoid invalidation. This article highlights critical rules, required documentation, item restrictions, and common pitfalls for each format.

Comparing Remote-Proctoring and In-Person Test-Day Rules

The LSAT is now offered through both remote-proctored and in-person formats. You may choose based on preference or location, but must strictly follow the format-specific instructions issued by the LSAC.

Check-In Process and Identification

Remote-proctored and in-person LSATs both require:

• Early check-in at your assigned time slot (for remote, log in at least 10–15 minutes early)
• Presentation of a valid, government-issued photo ID that exactly matches your LSAC registration details

For in-person exams, you must also provide your official admission ticket and may be required to sign test center logs.

Permitted and Prohibited Items

In-person testing:
You are restricted to a limited list of personal items—usually only:

• printed admission ticket
• valid ID
• essential non-electronic items (e.g., analog wristwatch)
• one-gallon clear resealable plastic bag with approved contents (e.g., pencils, eraser, tissues, non-digital watch, snack for break)

Key Term: test-day permitted items
Items that you are explicitly allowed to bring into the LSAT test room, as published by the LSAC. Any items not on the LSAC’s approved list are forbidden and may be confiscated.

Key Term: prohibited items
Any objects banned from the test room under LSAT rules, commonly including electronic devices, calculators, digital watches, hats, bags, and study materials.

In-person, any breach such as carrying a phone, calculator, or bag into the exam area can lead to dismissal or score cancellation.

Remote-proctoring:
Permitted items are slightly broader; however, no other persons, pets, or unauthorized digital devices may be present in the test space (other than your test laptop/PC, standard mouse, keyboard, and any medically necessary devices). You may need:

• 5 blank sheets of scratch paper
• one or more writing utensils (no stylus)
• valid ID
• non-digital watch, silent timer (if allowed)
• foam earplugs
• a clear, unlabeled water bottle
• any approved comfort items (as stated by the LSAC)

Electronic devices (phones, tablets, smartwatches) must be turned off and out of reach. You may not access other software/apps on your computer during the test.

Room Set-Up and Surveillance

For remote-proctoring:

• Complete a full 360° room scan with your webcam before starting
• Ensure your desk is clear except for allowed items
• Remain fully visible in-center of camera view throughout
• Any interruption (entry by another person, leaving view without proctor approval) can result in score cancellation

For in-person:

• Remain seated and silent unless otherwise instructed during breaks
• All materials must be visible on your desk; nothing on your lap or under your chair
• Proctors may check pockets, bags, or clear your workspace at any time

Key Term: remote-proctoring
An exam delivery system where you test from your own space, monitored by video and human proctors over the internet, using specified equipment and procedures.

Key Term: in-person test center
An official, staffed LSAT administration site with a controlled, standardized environment and on-site supervisors.

Worked Example 1.1

A candidate sits the remote LSAT in a private home office. Midway through the section, a family member opens the door to ask a question. The test-taker gestures "not now" and continues working. Is this a procedural breach?

Answer:
Yes. Any unapproved entry (person, pet) into the remote testing space during the exam is a violation of LSAT protocol and can result in score invalidation.

Dealing with Technical Difficulties or Irregularities

Remote:
If you lose connection or experience a disruption, stay seated and await proctor instructions. Do not attempt to resolve tech issues until you are told to do so. All activity is recorded. Repeated technical interruptions may delay or void your assessment.

In-person:
If you become unwell, have a materials issue, or notice a disturbance, quietly raise your hand and alert the proctor. Do not leave your seat without permission.

Revision Tip

Create a simple checklist the night before your exam, listing only permitted items. Set up your test space well in advance of your test day (for remote) or pack your bag according to the LSAC list for in-person. Do not rely on memory for compliance.

Exam Warning

For remote-proctoring, failure to comply with camera positioning, room scans, or instructions from proctors can result in automatic invalidation without appeal.

Summary

Key Point Checklist

This article has covered the following key knowledge points:

• The check-in, ID, and permitted item procedures differ for remote-proctoring vs in-person LSATs
• Electronic devices are always prohibited during active exam time—even for remote-proctoring
• You must maintain continuous, uninterrupted visibility for remote monitoring and strictly control your exam room
• Proctors (remote or in-person) have authority to intervene or end your test for rule breaches
• Being familiar with all procedural requirements in advance prevents exam disruption or cancellation

Key Terms and Concepts

• test-day permitted items
• prohibited items
• remote-proctoring
• in-person test center