I have cerebral palsy with severe muscle spasticity and chronic pain, and during my undergraduate studies I did not always have the accommodations I needed. My condition significantly affected my concentration, stamina, and exam performance, and there were only about two semesters when my GPA better reflected my academic ability. My pain and muscle spasms also affected my LSAT preparation and performance, particularly my ability to concentrate, sustain focus, and work efficiently under timed conditions.

I want to be clear that I’m not saying this because I didn’t study hard enough. The pain and muscle spasms can be extremely distracting and physically exhausting, especially during exams and other timed assessments. I believe that even a very strong test-taker could struggle to perform at their normal level while experiencing that degree of pain. If my LSAT score does not fully reflect my abilities, I would want admissions committees to understand that my medical condition affected both my undergraduate GPA and my test performance.

At the same time, I have a strong personal story, meaningful professional and life experience, and a serious interest in practicing disability law. I also intend to demonstrate my abilities through my application materials, recommendations, work experience, and, if appropriate, an LSAT score earned with accommodations or a later improved score.

Would an explanation like this, supported by appropriate documentation, give the admissions committee enough context to understand how my pain and cerebral palsy affected both my academic record and LSAT performance, and allow them to evaluate my application more holistically?

Hi everyone,

I'm planning to apply to law school this cycle while also preparing for the LSAT. I have cerebral palsy with severe muscle spasms, so balancing my health with studying and the application process has been challenging.

Has anyone here applied to law school while managing a physical disability or chronic medical condition? I'd love to hear any advice about staying on track, managing the application process, or anything you wish you had known before applying.

Thank you!

Hi everyone,

I have cerebral palsy with severe muscle spasms, and I'm planning to take the LSAT this fall.

I'm wondering if anyone here has cerebral palsy or another condition with severe spasms. How do you manage studying on difficult days? Do you have any tips for staying consistent or preparing for the LSAT while dealing with chronic pain and muscle spasms?

I'd really appreciate any advice or experiences you're willing to share. Thank you!