For decades, budding law students have had to stare down the Law School Admission Test, or LSAT, a rigorous test of abilities in logic, analytical reasoning and reading comprehension.
An American Bar Association panel that accredits law schools is considering whether to make standardized tests optional for admission, a move that would follow a trend seen in undergraduate admissions offices and give schools more flexibility in how they select law students.
ABA officials have said little so far about their current deliberations. But in earlier discussions former leaders have suggested that standardized tests might deter institutions from adopting innovative ways to evaluate candidates.