Hello all!
I am trying to decide whether to apply this year or next year. I'm hoping for some feedback.
Considerations for Applying Next Year:
The main reason that I'm thinking about applying next year is that I would have to RUSH to get everything done to submit this year. Although I'm currently PTing around 165, I won't be taking my first LSAT until November. Realistically, I won't be able to get my applications submitted until mid-December. With that in mind, part of me wants to just wait and apply early next year with an application that I spent more time on.
HOWEVER...
I'm really worried that next year will be even more competitive than this year.
According to this Data from LSAC https://report.lsac.org/VolumeSummary.aspx applications are up 50.7% this year compared to last year. On top of that, it seems that the number of applicants scoring in the 165+ range is WAY up. I'm worried that if I wait another year, the competition will be much greater.
Anyway, I apologize if this is somewhat of a rant. Ultimately, I am really interested in what you guys think and would greatly appreciate any feedback.
P.S. Congrats to everyone who hit their target scores in October!
I'm in a very similar situation. I have a 174, but was pting an average of 176.4 with several 179s. Ultimately, I don't think I'm going to retake the test. Instead, I'm going to focus on writing the best personal statements I can.
As far as retaking goes, I've heard three T-14 deans say that they would question someone's judgment for retaking a 173+ score. Even Mike Spivey (law admissions consultant) said something similar.
In the end, it's up to you. But realistically, unless you're aiming for Harvard/Yale, you're going to be at or above the median for EVERY law school next year. I don't think a higher LSAT score is going to help you get in anywhere.