Your LSAT score is a crucial factor in determining where you
go to law school or if you go at all. In fact, at many schools,
your LSAT accounts for more than 50% of the admissions decision.
Admissions committees look at your LSAT score to determine if you
have the academic ability to succeed in law school.
An outstanding LSAT score won't necessarily get you into the
school of your choice, but a low score will probably keep you
out. If you scored poorly on the LSAT, consider taking it again.
Admissions committees usually focus on your most recent
score.
How to approach the LSAT
The LSAT is a standardized test; therefore, it has
standard ways of approaching it—question type strategies,
time-management techniques, etc. Understanding the format of the
exam and the ways you can use it to your advantage can
significantly increase your score. Because of the intensity of
the LSAT and the competitiveness of today's law school admissions
environment, we highly encourage you to prep formally for the
exam (obvious reasons aside). The structure that preparation
provides can help you build the skills, techniques, and
confidence to score your best.
The role of GPA in admissions
Your GPA is very important in the admissions decision.
However, remember that you are not judged by your GPA alone. Law
schools will analyze your progression, any patterns, and level of
difficulty of coursework. They seek to determine your
intellectual ability, drive, and motivation to succeed. Some
schools will assign weights to your undergraduate institution and
your coursework. It is also not unusual for admissions officers
to take the time to review course offerings at your college.
The law schools to which you apply will receive your
transcripts from LSDAS. So, if the application asks you for your
GPA, be honest. If you are displeased with your undergraduate
performance, you can address it later in your personal
statement.
