Self-paced
I would like to get insight into a dilemma I'm currently having. To preface, I'm horrible at standardized tests. In November of 2025 I took the LSAT after self-studying and got a 149. Then hired Kaplan, and took the LSAT again in April 2026, and scored a 156. More context: I get massive test anxiety and constantly rethink my answers on the test, even with the tips from Kaplan.
I was originally planning on applying for Fall 2027 law school, but I'm not too sure if my score can get me into the right school I'd like. Right now, I'm looking to go into big law of some sort, and I know many of the bigger firms recruit from bigger law schools. I also don't know how much scholarship I would get if I applied to a school above the median of my score (so, schools with a 157-159 median), and what my chances are at schools above my median. My undergrad GPA was a 3.82, which is in line with schools' medians LSAT around 164. My master's degree I got a 3.70, but I have heard schools only look at undergrad GPA. I am currently working in a big law firm right now, and can be here for 1-2 years, but I'd like to go to law school sooner than later and get this degree.
I haven't looked at LSAT stuff since my test in April, so if I were to retake it, I would probably take it in October? I also just don't know how much my score can go up from the 156. Will schools see the original jump from 149-156 and see that as a good thing alongside my GPA? Does that boost my chances at a law school with a slightly higher median? Or should I just hire an admissions consultant to really make other parts of my application shine (i.e. the essays)? Moral of the story, I don't really want to take this test again, but if I have to, I will. I just want to make sure the score actually goes up rather than down.
Willing to hear all opinions!!
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1 comments
Hi @Lawlover1234, I can't speak much but I am in similar shoes of yours. I too was planning on applying this fall, but my LSAT score might say otherwise. The law school application numbers have been increasing, more people are applying, and schools are really prioritising those with a high LSAT score (check LSD, any 7sage admissions podcast, LSAT demon podcast, etc.). So, my game plan has become--if I don't get a score that I know I have a better chance in (mid 160s or higher) then I won't apply. I just don't think it's worth the application cost and time to brink on the hope that current LSAT score will bring miracles in front of the admissions committee. Also, with this game plan, I think that I won't register a test in advance, but will just keep practicing and will take the test when I see my scores near that score I want. I know that's probably not you want to hear, but law school admissions seem to be getting more competitive each year and it might be best played if you apply with the best cards and confidence.
I think it depends on where you want to go too, but if it's big law, then maybe studying for the LSAT and retaking in the future might be a good idea. Ofc, this is all my thoughts, but feel free to grab what you like from it. Good luck!