Self-study
I took the June LSAT and, due to repeated proctor interruptions, I underperformed relative to my PT average and ended up with a 169.
I'm happy that the score wasn't as low as I feared, but since I had been consistently scoring 170+ on my recent PTs, I've decided to retake in August.
The problem is that I'm also applying in the upcoming cycle and originally planned for June to be my final LSAT. My plan was to focus on application materials from July, but now I need to keep studying for the LSAT as well.
For those who retook the LSAT while preparing applications, how did you balance the two? Did you focus almost entirely on the LSAT until test day, or did you work on personal statements and other application materials at the same time?
For context, I'm studying full-time right now and hope to submit my applications in this October. Also I'm an international applicant so might need stronger PS (not sure).
Any advice on timelines, scheduling, or time management would be greatly appreciated!! Thank you!
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13 comments
Hi there,
I really get overwhelmed after studying depending on how much work I do. I have learned to take breaks between prep tests and continue drafting my essays in between. This helps a lot because I get to touch base on all the materials from time to time and noting is left undone; it's like I'm constantly working on my application. Constantly being reminded if what I need to do and that way I hope to meet my deadline and submit my application with ease when I'm finally ready. I plan to apply in February '27. and as for the lsat, I may take my first test in October and then take it again in January.
@StephanieElissaint This sounds like a good idea. Can I ask you how many times you take PTs a week?
@ahsley I would advise no more than one because I definitely burnt myself out doing 2 a week!
@businessgoose Thank you!! I've been doing PTs every two or three days, so I'm not used to taking one only once a week. But I should probably start doing that, considering I have to work on my applications now!
@ahsley just as the commentator below indicated; It is not a good idea to take more than one test a week and as of right now, I'm doing untimed PTs plus wrong answer reviews... Once I complete the reviews, I will be taking a couple more untimed PTs until I feel ready to start timed PTs.
@StephanieElissaint Sounds good! Thanks for sharing :)
Hello! I am also an international student. I took June lsat but I am sure I will need to retake it. Maybe we can adjust lsat studying days and study less on some days to write essays. I have the same concerns as you
@Mail_Jabrayilov Go international applicants! Hope we nail the retake and have strong essays ready :)
@ahsley We will!!
I'm not quite in the same boat, but I'm in the same harbor lol. I'm taking the exam for the first time in August, but I've also scheduled for September because I just have a feeling that the first time won't be my best time. My plan is to take a week off after the August exam to lay the groundwork for my essays and materials, then get back to studying for September's exam. After September's exam, I'm all in on material preparation. I've been loosely brainstorming whenever inspiration strikes of course, but yeah - I won't really focus on essays until I've made sure my LSAT is as high as I can get it!
@monmon Same here! Fingers crossed we don't have to test again in September. I'm sooo over this test and just want to get into the actual essays/application portion
@monmon I think taking the test at least two times is a smart idea. Hope you the best!
@mitch.s Lol I'm so over this test as well. Wish it was already done!!!