Prometric Downtown Chicago Test Center - October LSAT

Downtown Chicago (N. LaSalle St.) Prometric Center: October LSAT Experience & Tips

For anyone scheduled to take the LSAT at the downtown Chicago Prometric center on N. LaSalle Street, here is a quick breakdown of my experience this past Saturday. While the actual exam portion was highly organized, the initial check-in was quite hectic. I strongly recommend arriving at least 45 minutes early, if not sooner. If you cut it closer than that, the long check-in queue can add a lot of unnecessary stress right before your test. My slot was on a weekend, so it was likely more crowded than a typical weekday, but it is definitely something to keep in mind. Also, be aware that the 10-minute break between sections 2 and 3 flies by much faster than you would think, so watch the clock closely when stepping out to use the restroom or access your locker.

The actual testing room was great. The chairs were comfortable, the temperature was pleasant, the computer system ran smoothly, and I wasn't nearly as distracted by people coming and going as I thought I would be. However, I highly recommend bringing your own non-wired, foam earplugs (I got mine from CVS) because the over-ear headphones provided by the center are not great.

As a naturally anxious person, my nerves made it tough to focus on the first 2–3 questions. To handle this, I flagged those questions right away and moved on, which allowed me to easily return to them later once I had settled into a rhythm. I also found great benefits from practicing box-breathing between sections to reset my heart rate. For the break, make sure to pack a quick snack. Another poster recently mentioned that our brains run on sugar and the LSAT is incredibly draining, so I brought chocolate chip granola bars for a quick energy boost. Also, remember to peel the labels off your plastic water bottle before you arrive. I saw a few people get called out for this at check-in, and it’s just another minor, avoidable stressor you don't want to deal with.

Finally, don't be afraid to make a little bit of quiet small talk with other test-takers while you wait in line. Everyone is nervous, and cracking a quick joke or sharing a kind word really helped ease my own anxiety. We are all in the same boat, and it is easy to forget that. Trust your preparation—the fact that you are reading this shows you already care more than the average test-taker, and you should be incredibly proud of that. Good luck!