11 Universities that Require the LNAT in the UK

Applying for law school in the United Kingdom is highly competitive, and for many top institutions, excellent grades alone are not enough. Some universities use an additional test called the Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) to evaluate applicants’ critical thinking, logical reasoning, and essay writing skills. If you are planning to study law, knowing the universities that require LNAT in the UK is essential to avoid surprises during your application process.

This guide explains what LNAT is, why it matters, and provides a detailed list of all UK universities that require LNAT in 2025. We will also compare LNAT vs. non-LNAT universities and give you tips on preparing for this important exam.

What is the LNAT?

The Law National Aptitude Test (LNAT) is a computer-based admissions test created to help universities select the best candidates for undergraduate law degrees. Unlike traditional exams that test factual knowledge, LNAT assesses skills such as:

• Reading comprehension – Ability to understand complex texts.

• Logical reasoning – Evaluating arguments and identifying flaws.

• Critical thinking – Weighing evidence and reaching balanced conclusions.

• Essay writing – Expressing structured arguments in clear English.

The test is divided into two parts:

1. Multiple-choice section (95 minutes): You answer questions based on 12 argumentative passages.

2. Essay section (40 minutes): You write an essay on one of three topics provided.

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Since LNAT is skills-based, no prior legal knowledge is required. However, preparation helps sharpen reasoning and writing skills.

Why Do Universities Require LNAT?

The number of applicants to UK law schools is very high. Many students apply with similar academic achievements, especially top A-level or IB grades. To distinguish between strong applicants, some universities use the LNAT because it:

• Provides an additional measure of aptitude.

• Helps admissions tutors evaluate candidates beyond exam grades.

• Predicts success in rigorous law degrees.

• Allows universities to shortlist students fairly in a competitive pool.

Therefore, if you want to apply to certain prestigious universities that require LNAT in the UK, sitting for this exam is unavoidable.

List of Universities That Require the LNAT in the UK

Below is a detailed breakdown of the UK universities that require LNAT in 2025, with insights into how each institution uses the test in its admissions process.

1. University of Oxford

The University of Oxford is world-renowned for its Law (Jurisprudence) programme, consistently ranked among the best globally. Every applicant is required to sit the LNAT as part of the admissions process. Oxford uses the LNAT results alongside academic grades, personal statements, and interviews to evaluate applicants. The test plays a crucial role in helping the admissions committee identify candidates who demonstrate sharp analytical thinking, problem-solving ability, and strong written communication skills. Without a strong LNAT score, gaining admission into Oxford Law is nearly impossible.

2. University College London (UCL)

At UCL Faculty of Laws, all undergraduate law applicants must sit the LNAT. The university considers both sections of the test, giving particular attention to the essay since it highlights the applicant’s ability to argue logically and coherently. UCL receives thousands of applications each year, many from high-achieving students. LNAT helps admissions tutors distinguish truly exceptional candidates from the crowd. A competitive LNAT score, combined with strong academic results, significantly improves your chances of securing an offer at UCL.

3. King’s College London (KCL)

King’s College London (KCL) requires the LNAT for all applicants to its LLB Law programme. As one of the largest and most respected law schools in the UK, KCL uses LNAT as a filtering tool to ensure that only those with strong reasoning skills progress to the next stage of consideration. Admissions tutors carefully review the essay section to assess clarity of expression, depth of reasoning, and originality of thought. A well-written essay can make your application stand out even if your grades are similar to other candidates.

4. London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE)

The London School of Economics (LSE) is one of the most competitive institutions for law. LNAT is mandatory for all law applicants, and the school uses it as an essential part of the selection process. LSE values analytical ability, critical thinking, and clear argumentation — all skills measured in the LNAT. The multiple-choice section is particularly important since it demonstrates the ability to interpret complex texts and evaluate arguments effectively. With high competition for places, excelling in LNAT can strengthen your application considerably.

5. Durham University

Durham University’s Law School is widely respected and requires the LNAT for all undergraduate law courses. The LNAT score is used to assess intellectual potential beyond A-levels or IB grades. Admissions tutors look closely at the essay to determine whether applicants can communicate persuasively in writing, a vital skill for studying law. Since Durham attracts a large number of academically strong applicants, a strong LNAT performance often tips the balance in deciding who gets an offer. Early preparation is essential for success.

6. University of Bristol

At the University of Bristol, the LNAT is compulsory for all applicants to undergraduate law degrees. Bristol is one of the leading research universities in the UK, and its law school values students who demonstrate critical thinking and strong communication. LNAT helps tutors differentiate between equally qualified candidates. The essay section is especially relevant because it mirrors the kind of structured argument students must master during their law studies. Strong LNAT scores, combined with good academic records, give applicants a clear advantage.

7. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham requires LNAT as part of its admissions process for undergraduate law. Nottingham’s law school is highly regarded, particularly for its international law specialisations. Because applications often exceed available places, LNAT is an essential selection tool. The university considers both the multiple-choice score and the essay, assessing applicants on their ability to process information critically and argue effectively. Applicants with well-developed reasoning skills and strong LNAT results stand a much better chance of securing a spot at Nottingham.

8. SOAS, University of London

SOAS University of London also mandates the LNAT for entry into its undergraduate law programmes. Known for its focus on international and comparative law, SOAS seeks students with strong analytical abilities and global perspectives. The LNAT essay is given considerable attention because it reflects the applicant’s ability to engage with complex topics and communicate persuasively. A well-argued essay can significantly influence admissions decisions, especially for students applying from diverse academic backgrounds. LNAT, therefore, plays a central role in SOAS’s admissions strategy.

9. University of Glasgow

At the University of Glasgow, the LNAT is required for applicants to both Scots Law and Common Law degrees. The law school at Glasgow is one of the oldest in the UK and has a reputation for producing skilled legal professionals. The LNAT is used to evaluate skills that are essential in legal practice, such as critical analysis, logical reasoning, and persuasive writing. Given the high demand for places, especially in Common Law, LNAT results often determine whether an applicant progresses to the offer stage.

10. University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield requires the LNAT for undergraduate law applicants. Sheffield’s School of Law emphasises a balance between academic achievement and practical skills. LNAT helps admissions tutors identify candidates who are not only academically capable but also demonstrate the intellectual curiosity and reasoning needed to succeed in legal studies. Both the multiple-choice and essay sections are considered in the evaluation. A strong LNAT performance can compensate for slightly weaker grades, making it a key component of Sheffield’s admissions process.

11. University of Exeter

Finally, the University of Exeter also requires LNAT for undergraduate law programmes. Exeter Law School is well-respected for its teaching and research, and competition for places is intense. The LNAT enables admissions tutors to distinguish between equally qualified candidates by assessing their critical thinking and argumentative writing skills. The essay section is often a decisive factor in admissions decisions. Strong LNAT preparation is therefore crucial for applicants who want to secure a place at Exeter’s competitive law school.

Universities That Do Not Require the LNAT

Not all UK universities demand the LNAT. Many excellent institutions rely solely on academic results, personal statements, and interviews. Examples include:

• University of Cambridge (uses its own law assessment, not LNAT).

• University of Manchester.

• University of Leeds.

• University of Southampton.

• University of Liverpool.

• University of Kent.

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If you are concerned about the LNAT, these options may be better suited, though they are still highly competitive.

LNAT vs. Non-LNAT Universities: Which Should You Choose?

When deciding between LNAT and non-LNAT universities, consider the following factors:

• Competitiveness: LNAT universities tend to be more prestigious and selective.

• Application strategy: Sitting for the LNAT gives you access to more universities, increasing your options.

• Preparation load: LNAT requires extra study time, but the skills gained also help in law school.

• Career prospects: Graduating from a top LNAT university (like Oxford, LSE, or UCL) can boost career opportunities in law firms and international organisations.

Many students apply to a mix of LNAT and non-LNAT universities to balance their chances.

How to Prepare for LNAT

Since LNAT is skills-based, preparation should focus on improving reading comprehension and essay writing. Here are practical tips:

1. Practice past papers – Familiarise yourself with question styles.

2. Read widely – Newspapers, opinion articles, and legal commentary improve critical reading.

3. Work on time management – The exam is time-pressured, so practice under timed conditions.

4. Develop essay planning skills – Learn to structure arguments logically.

5. Take mock tests – Helps reduce anxiety and build exam stamina.

There are also online LNAT preparation courses, practice books, and official resources from lnat.ac.uk.

Final Thoughts

If you want to study law at some of the UK’s most prestigious institutions, understanding the universities that require LNAT in the UK is vital. Schools such as Oxford, UCL, KCL, LSE, and Durham all use LNAT as a critical part of their admissions process. While it adds an extra challenge, it also gives you a chance to showcase reasoning and writing skills that go beyond grades.

Applicants should prepare early, practice consistently, and consider applying to a mix of LNAT and non-LNAT universities to maximise their chances of securing a place.

In short, the LNAT may feel demanding, but excelling in it can open the doors to some of the best law schools in the UK.