When is a Low LSAT Score Too Low?
My most-read blog topics are those dealing with very low LSAT scores; there are a lot of you out there. So, what constitutes a “low” LSAT score? This is not a discussion for those of you who find yourselves disappointed with your 158s. Let’s aim this conversation at those of you below a 147 LSAT.
I get a lot of calls from people in this category. There are certain people whose chances will not be helped even with advice from a law school admission consultant. We are not, after all, miracle workers. If your LSAT score is in the 130s or low 140s, it’s very hard to find an ABA law school anywhere in the US that will offer you unrestricted acceptance (especially in the increasingly competitive environment of our c. It may be possible to gain acceptance to a conditional program at an ABA law school (especially with scores in the low to mid 140s) but even that has its problems. You may get yourself to Appalachia or somewhere to try the conditional course, and then they may only offer acceptance to 2 of the 100 participants. The problem is that once you are unsuccessful in gaining acceptance through a conditional admission program, other law schools will be hard pressed to find a reason to give you a chance at their own school, even with a slightly improved LSAT score.
If you haven’t exhausted your opportunities to take the LSAT, then take it again. However, you must prepare differently than you did before. And don’t rush the process; it’s too late for October. Wait until December. Make improving your score your focus; without it, the world’s best personal statement, most impressive resume, and illuminating letters of recommendation won’t make a bit of difference.
Those of you who know me know that I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but I will always give my honest opinion…..
Ann K. Levine, Esq., former director of law school admissions for two ABA law schools, is a law school admission consultant and owner of Law School Expert,
Hello Mrs. Levine, I have a question about prospective schools. I took the LSAT 3 times and my highest score was a measly 153 with a 2.83 Undergrad GPA. I’m unfortunately forced to stay in Washington DC because I have a family.
I know that I can’t realistically get into any T14 or Tier 1 school without curing cancer, so what schools should I apply to in the MD/DC/VA area? App fees are too expensive to give $80 or so to a school if I stand little chance of acceptance. Thank you for this blog.
Martin
Hi Marshall,
As your law school admission consultant, I can help you come up with a schools list and to make sure your materials are as strong as possible. If you are interested in these services, please take a look at my web site -www.lawschoolexpert.com
Happy New Year.
Erika asked me this question:
Can you please give me some insight. I took the LSAT twice over 2 years ago and received a 145 both times. I did not try nearly as hard and have now decided it was a huge mistake. I did however apply to some schools with this score. As you can guess I was denied. I am looking to take the test again and put everything into it. Does it look awful if I take the test again? And do I have a chance??
Thank you very much for your opinion.
Erika – yes, if you take the test again and redeem yourself, you will have a shot at law school. Most law schools keep old applications on file for just two years, so by the time you would apply they probably would not see your application materials even if they would see the scores. You would probably need an LSAT addendum to explain the increase, but the facts you’re presenting – by themselves – don’t scare me. (Of course, this depends upon the schools you plan to apply to but if your schools list is reasonable given your credentials then I don’t count you out.)
Hi There,
I took the LSAT twice and received a 143 the first time and a 147 the second. My undergrad GPA is a 3.2. I have applied to some law schools and am just wondering if there is a realistic chance of acceptance. Any feedback will help.
Thanks,
Danielle
Danielle, That’s a very open-ended question and you won’t get any predictions out of me : )
I have no idea where you applied. You’re just going to have to sit back and wait. But if the school’s 25th percentile is a 147 then you might have a shot if your application is strong. We’ll have to see what happens and then you can perhaps apply to different schools next year and/or retake the LSAT. But your 4 point jump is great – congratulations!
hello, i had a few questions regarding the lsat.
i recieved a 139 on first lsat and a 142 on second lsat, clearly i must do higher.
do i have a shoot of getting into thomas jefferson school of law? they are san diego based school and tier 4. i only wish to get into TJ and hope with my 3.0 from UCSD that i have a shoot.
i will have to take the lsat again in june, which will be my 3rd attempt and consequently my final attempt.
does my small increase from 139 to 142 help me in applying or would thay have liked to see huge improvement? i just cant seem to get the LSAT, it is killing me.
thanks
alex
Alex,
Thanks for your comment.
I do not think your improvement is going to make enough of a difference for you, even given your modest goals.
I would tell you to try to improve your score for June, but not to take the June exam unless you’re seeing significant improvements in your practice exam scores.
Good luck with this.
Ann
Mrs. Levine,
I received a 145 on my first take and a 147 on my second. I really studied my behind off (did perfect on the games and horrible on reading comp).
I also have a 3.62 gpa.
I live in NY and can go as far as Jersey… where can I get in with these numbers?
Also would applying night/part-time help?
-Kevin
Hi Kevin – I sent you an e-mail directly. Unfortunately I can’t give such specific advice within the confines of the blog. I do refer you to the LSAC admission calculator and the LSAC ABA Official Guide to Law Schools for information about the acceptance rates for people in your bracket at law schools in your area.
Dear Levnie,
I have taken the LSAT 5times (137, 141, 144, 145, 145). I am currently on a wait list at Hoftra in NY. I made the same list a year back but did not gain admission. My GPA is 3.28. I can honestly say that I was not well prepared the first 2times I took the test. Do you know of any schools in the NY/NJ area that might consider my scores? I have three years of Paralegal.
I am considering going for my Masters instead and possibly re-visiting the LSAT in another 5years. Do you think this is a wise idea? I seriously want to get into a law school. Thank you.
- tania
Tania, It’s AMAZING that you’re on the WL at Hofstra. Don’t give up – go talk to them and campaign your way in! Charm them! Impress them!
Good luck!
Hello Ms. Levine, maybe you can give me an advice. I am not a stellar scorer, my practice LSATs were in the following order:
)
142,146,151,145,152,145,149,146,146,150,152,144,144 and today’s score was again 149. Each time it’s a different section that either gives me a boost or nife in the back. So, as you see, I can only hope for the best on coming June 8th, since, sadly I have NO consistency at all on my scores.
I intend to apply for PART TIME programs only in Chicago schools – John Marshall, Loyola, DePaul and Kent. I can’t go anywhere at all, have a toddler and a baby on the way (I am a mom
My GPA I think is 3.18, but it’s not cumulative, it’s just from my graduating institution (LUC). Do I have a shot with at least John Marshall LS with my scores (maybe average) and my GPA, for PART TIME program, and if I write a good pers. statement?
You can reply to my email.
I would appreciate your comment very much.
Thank you
Nina.
Thanks for the comment! I just sent your response via email.
Hi, Ann
I have a cum GPA of 2.6 from undergrad i took the lsat three times and i scored the times I took it i was not ready 132, 129, 133 do i stand a chance going into law school, I have a passion and the drive to be an attorney. pleanse email me back if you can help me.
Sophia,
Thanks for your question. I want to answer this for everyone’s benefit because so many people in similar shoes have this question. I actually have a whole section in my book about Very Low LSAT scores, and -unfortunately- you qualify in that category. You are not going to be competitive for admission with these numbers and I would not take on a client with your numbers because chances of success are incredibly unlikely, especially in a competitive admission cycle. I can’t remember seeing anyone with your statistics get into law school. I feel badly telling you this, and I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but chances are that even if you made it to law school you would not make it though and if you made it through you would struggle with the bar exam.
The good news is that you said you were not ready for the LSAT. If you are really motivated, please prepare differently the next time you take it. Please find a private tutor who will work with you and who incorporates a style that you can relate to. Give it your best shot, and if under those conditions you improve your score then that’s great and if you don’t then you’ll know for sure this isn’t for you.
I wish you the best of luck.
Good evening -
I believe my June LSAT results of 143 are too low for me to meet my goal of gaining acceptance into the dual MSW/JD program through Boston College. As an active student in the Boston College MSW program, my cumulative GPA is 3.670. While my undergraduate GPA is also a bit low, subsequent graduate work undertaken at an Ivy League school prior to joining BC was completed with a cumulative GPA of 3.30.
They say lawyers should never ask a question they don’t already know the answer to, so I thought I would practice and ask if you would recommend investing in a LSAT prep course to then retake the LSAT in the fall before applying; or would you recommend applying with my current standing with an addendum, and then if (most likely when) declined, retake the LSAT and then apply again?
Jane, It sounds like you didn’t take a prep course for the June LSAT so you MUST retake the LSAT with a prep course or tutor (or both). Don’t apply and waste time and money this year when you know what it’s going to take to reach your goals!
Good luck!
I received a 142 on my lsat , no idea why I scored so low. Bubbling issue??? My practice scores were in the low to mid 150s. My gpa is a 3.6! Do I have any chance at gaining admissions to a law school?
Sarah,
If you were consistently hitting in the low to mid 150s then you MUST retake the LSAT in September.
Good luck!
Ann
Dear Ms. Levine,
I graduated from a small private school with a BA in poli sci (3.23 gpa). Scored poorly on the LSAT even with a prep course (145 and 144), though I’ve never been a good standardized test taker. I’m not interested in top tier, perfectly satisfied with most 3rd tier and a handful of 4th. Do you think it’s worth a shot to apply to 10-15 school within this range? Thanks!
David,
I have a whole chapter in my book geared toward people with low LSAT scores, so that might be really helpful to you. I don’t know enough about you yet to know whether you’d be one of the few folks in that range who gets admitted. Certainly, the shot is with the fourth tier schools if they are picked carefully.
Thanks for reading the blog – good luck!
Ann
Ma’am,
I have 7 years of experience as an USAF officer. My records indicate exceptional performance having been ranked the #1 of 400 Captains on my base, in addition to winning distiguished/top graduate awards from every formalized training event I completed. I interned for a US Senator, have started 2 charity organizations, and have strong corporate work experience after my time in the military. While I have strong 3.3+ GPA undergraduate, I’m concerned about my 147 LSAT score. I’m looking at a few lawschools in the 15-25 range of rankings. Should I take the test again, or does stand a chance without re-testing? Thank you for time.
ALP
Hi Adam,
If you want to go to a top 25 school, you need to retake the LSAT. Absolutely.
Good luck, and please let me know how I can help.
Ann
Dear Ms. Levine,
I am a 24 year old teacher and am looking to go to law school. I have taken the LSAT once and scored a 149. I am planning on taking them again but due to a learning disability I am unsure if I will be able to improve my score (standardized tests were never my strong point). I have a 3.75 undergrad GPA and a 3.95 Grad GPA. Both of my GPA’s are in education. I have two questions; will my unrelated studies hurt the appearance of my GPA? And how much higher of an LSAT score do you think I would need in order to be accepted into a top 50 law school.
Thanks!
Hi Chris,
Thanks for writing. I think you’re smart to realize that your unrelated studies will cause some trepidation in review of your application; I work with people to help minimize these kinds of concerns and turn them into strengths. Your GPA information all sounds good, but I don’t know when or where you obtained these degrees. You are so young that I’m assuming you don’t have a ton of teaching experience. I think to be competitive at a Top 50 school, I’d like to see your LSAT raise at least 8-10 points, but it really just depends on where you hope you to apply because obviously there is a different threshold for different schools and different locations, part time versus full time, etc.
Please let me know if I can help you in any way.
Ann
Dear Ms. Levine,
I have read your responses, appreciated your direct feedback and thought to ask my own question. My son is expected to graduate from hunter college, CUNY with a history major. His LSAT score is 147. Although, he always did well in school, he has never been a great standardized test taker. Having taken a prep course with Testmaster he scored 147 on LSAT. He registered to retake the test but having been getting even lower scores on the practice, he sought to cancel the registration. Unfortunately, he was one day late and could no longer cancel the registration. what do you suggest is the best course of action here to avoid damaging his already slim change of getting into a school in a try state area (New York, NJ, Connecticut)? He is afraid of getting a score lower than 147 and does not want to take the test.
many thanks for your advice!
Nelli
Nelli,
Thanks for writing. One strategy might be to take the test in September anyway and cancel it as soon as it’s over. Not showing up just counts as a cancel, so he might as well practice taking the exam under test day conditions. Then, he should take a prep course or get a tutor (there are many options in the Tri-State area) and try to improve his score on the December test.
Please let me know if I can help in any way.
Ann
hello, i had one question im sure you will be able to help with.
my last LSAT was 142, i am now studying and preparing to take the dec lsat. at home study and i have a class starting Oct 4. besides having UCSD on my resume, i have little else. i was wondering if i interned at a law firm would this make a significant increase in my chances in getting into a law school? even tier 4 is ok with me. Or would i be better of not interning and spending my extra time purely studying for lsat. i plan to study 8 hrs/day, but if i have an internship, i would probably not get in as many hours. does the internship offset a potentially lower lsat score? thanks so much!
alex
I’m very glad you’re retaking the LSAT. While having something on your resume that shows you have an interest in law is beneficial, it’s not as beneficial as having a solid LSAT score. Internship does not offset the score, unfortunately. But this is a great question, and I’m so glad you asked it.
Ann
@Ann Levine
just to make sure, i didnt mean does the internship offset my score of 142. the question i meant to ask is if i didnt have an internship and dedicated all my time to lsat and scored a 152, or is it better to have an internship and score a 149? all hypothetical at this point, but i am just stressing this lsat so much, i figure i shouldnt spend any time filing papers for a law firm… what do you think? thank you so much for your very quick past response.
alex
The 152 is better than any filing you might be doing.
Ms. Levine,
I just received my second LSAT score back. I received a 147 the June 2009 test and a 146 for the September test. I have taken the Prineton Review prep course twice and the highest I have scored with them was a 160. The first time I took the LSAT I was a nervous wreck, the second time around I thought I did great, and I bombed it again. Do you think that I have a chance at getting in to law school at all? My UGPA is a 3.28, I work 25 hours per week for a law firm and I go to school full time. I plan on applying in December. I was thinking of using my personal statement as a way to explain why my scores weren’t up to par. What do you think? Thank you so much!
Arielle
Hello,
I just received my LSAT score for my second round of testing today…it was a 142. My first score was a 140. I am understandably concerned with this, as I am unsure whether I should take it a third time, or whether I should apply to law schools and hope my high GPA and references get me in. My cumulative GPA is 3.6, while my undergraduate (from the last two years of my BA) GPA is 3.89.
While I understand that it is very unlikely that I will score dramatically higher on my third LSAT attempt, I realize given the fact the first two times I relied on home studying and no prep course or tutors to prepare, that if I utilize those methods of study instead this time around I may have a better shot.
I have two questions:
Could it hurt me more by taking the test a third time around?
Given my GPA and two LSAT scores and without taking the LSAT again to I stand a realistic chance of gaining acceptance to any law school?
Thanks..
Hi Arielle,
I think – if you choose the right schools – you can get into law school. However, I do not believe the personal statement is the appropriate place to discuss LSAT scores. That’s better addressed in an addendum.
Ann
Elisabeth,
It would probably be worthwhile for you to try a prep course, but the December LSAT is only 5 weeks away and that’s not a lot of time to make serious headway on a test that you obviously struggle with.
I would urge you to evaluate whether you are willing to wait a year and put more of an investment into your LSAT preparation.
Ann
I have a 3.2 GPA, and my LSAT score was a 148. It was my 1st time taking the LSAT. I’m not 100% confident that my grade would change much if I tried to retake it. I am interested in a part-time evening law program in the Manhattan/Queens/Brooklyn area. Do you have any idea if speaking to a guidance or admissions counselor at the school I’m interested would help? I know that many schools are slightly more lenient on evening applicants when it comes to LSAT scores. So far, I’m not even sure if New York Law School would accept me. What would you do if you were me? Do you know of any other schools with evening divisions in my area that I might have a better chance of getting into?
Hello:
I am currently working as a tax accountant and my work around taxes has prompted me to attend law school. Given these facts/comments-do you think I should apply this year, given increased applicants due to economy, or should I wait another year? Any general advise I can get is appreciated.
1)I have taken practice exams, and score around 145-148.
2)I no some people will say its an excuse,but i dont test well and that is evident from my sat score of 940, yet a gpa of 3.4.
3)I would prefer to attend law school part time.
Harry,
I don’t think a year is going to make a huge difference in terms of competitiveness. The better reason to wait would be to give yourself more time to improve your LSAT score.
The 940/3.4 doesn’t really prove too much because a 3.4 for your undergraduate school might be the median – it’s more about out performing your numbers so if you had a 3.9 and the average entering SAT score at your school was a 1200 but you had a 940, then that shows standardized tests might not be indicative of performance for you generally.
Part time is a great way to attend law school, but it’s really going to be about whether you can achieve your potential on the LSAT in a short time frame.
Ann
hello, i have been studying for the last 2 1/2 months, for my lsat. original lsat scores were 139 and 142… now i am scoring in the range of 149 to 151 on 3 or 4 diagnostics.
i am a bit terrified because this is my last attempt at the lsat (3rd time) and worry of getting a 149 or lower…
with less than 2 weeks, i dont know what else i can improve on, does it seem possible i have a chance at Thomas jefferson or california western, or most any tier 4 schools in california?
4 letters of rec including one from a lawyer i am interning at.
thanks for all your advice,
alex
Hi Alex,
I can’t comment about your chances for admission on the blog format but if you’re pretty sure you can hit 149 then I think it’s a great outcome/improvement for you. Good luck!
Ann
Dear Mrs. Levine, I am currently a Senior Finance major at West Virginia University… I want to start out by saying that I am a TERRIBLE standardized test-taker… My current cumulative GPA is a 3.6 and I took the LSAT in September and received an unfortunate 145… I already took the Kaplan Prep Course and I am taking the December LSAT again this coming saturday… obviously this is my last chance for Fall 2010 admission for taking the test but I wanted to hear your opinion on my current situation… I want to stay relatively close to home here in West Virginia so I am applying to Duquesne, Dayton, Appalachian, West Virginia, and Mississippi College… What are my honest chances of getting in with these kinds of numbers… I excel in the classroom but standardized tests really stick it to me… I feel that I have a decently strong resume and some trusted recommendation letters… I am in the process of writing my personal statement but what I asking is… AM I GOING TO GET IN TO LAW SCHOOL?? (let’s say even if I don’t improve my score a lot saturday) Please email me at jmalfreg@mix.wvu.edu – Thank you so much, James
Hi Ann,
I’ve taken the LSAT twice thus far with a 141 the first round and 144 this last time. My GPA averages about 3.1 (I transferred from a semester to quarterly school) grew up with a disability that was fixed through corrective surgery and spend two years volunteer teaching in China. Now I want to take the LSAT again in February and think I can improve my score but I’m wondering if my background and 2 years of work at a very prominent internet company with an ! in the title might allow me to get into the part time program at Lewis and Clark College in Oregon. I hear admissions requirements are lower but I’m thinking not that low. Thanks!
Hi Scott. Retaking in February could be worthwhile if you could improve your score 5-8 points. However, it’s hard to do that in a month and it would be your last time eligible to take the test in a 2 year period, so only take it if you’re really going to be ready for it.
Good luck with everything, and let me know how I can help. Happy New Year!
Hi Ann,
I am in my final semester of college. I recently took the LSAT in February and my score was a 132. The thing is, I studied but at the same time I was handling schoolwork as well. I have an overall 3.4 GPA and am involved in national honor societies at my school and I have research experience, and other work experience. I am a recipient of many academic scholarships. I also have professors who speak very highly of me that have written letters of reccomendations for me. I am applying to two schools who have conditional admissions. Also, according to the LSAC, they converted my GPA to around a 3.5. Do I have a chance of getting into a law school with conditial admissions?
Continuation of first message….
Also, I have always had a history of not doing too well on standardized test.
Lana,
I think you are better off retaking the LSAT with significant preparation in June. Apply early for Fall 2011 and you will be much better off. But the most important thing is raising that score. You have the GPA and well rounded experiences, so you need the LSAT to put you in the ballpark.
Ann
hi,
I have taken the LSAT two times the first time was in sep.2009 and the next was in feb. 2010. I received a 133 the first time and a 147 the second time. The first time I took the test I was very nervous and at the time had a lot on my mind. When I retook the test I felt very confident because I did my best and took a preg coarse to prepare however when I saw that I only scored a 147 I wasnt sure what to think. I really want to go to law school, do you think my chances of getting in are fairly good?
* Correction- meant to say PREP Coarse
Benny,
People with 147s and decent GPAs and good applications do get into law school if you pick the right school. That’s actually a great score increase, so congratulations!
Ann
hello,
I was wondering if a Master degree counts for anything when law schools look over your application. I took the feb. LSAT and got a very low 143 my UGPA is 2.12 but I have a Masters degree in urban planning with a 3.5 GPA. I only applied to 4 tier schools because I’m very realistic. My first choice is John Marshall Chicago because I know they look for URMs and I am one. I also sent in four LORs, two from attorneys (one of which teaches at JM) one from a judge I’ve worked with in the past and another form my undergrad advisor who knows why my UGPA is low. I know I don’t have the greatest chances of getting in, which is why I’ve already registered to retake the LSAT but I’m hoping for the best. Will the Masters degree help at all?
Thanks,
Amy
Hi Amy,
A graduate degree is a subjective, rather than objective factor in the process. Your GPA doesn’t “count” in your index calculation, but you can refer to it when trying to show what you are capable of doing on a rigorous level, and of course letters of rec from graduate professors are persuasive. The attorney and judge letters may or may not be helpful – unless you did significant work for these individuals then these aren’t the right people to right you letters of rec. Your undergraduate advisor might be able to talk about your low GPA but that’s not a good LOR either – you need someone who can speak to your strengths and talk about what a great student you are. I have a number of upcoming webinars on explaining weaknesses and who should write LORs. If you’re interested in participating, you can sign up on my website.
Ann
Dear Ms. Levine:
I just received my second attempt LSAT score of 145. My first attempt was in June ’09, with a score of 147. My lowest practice exam score was 151, but my average was 159. I went to undergraduate school at an Ivy (but I graduated 10 years ago). I earned a 3.3 GPA as a two-sport athlete. I currently work full-time (for an attorney) and have two children, thus would be considered a non-traditional applicant.
I have a history of poor standardized test scores (SAT & GRE) and test anxiety, yet managed to succeed at a very competitive undergraduate institution. Unfortunately, I live in an area where there are NO prep courses available and NO private tutoring options either. I do not plan to enter law school for a few years, and since I have been out of school so long, I am trying to take things slow and plan ahead. I am wondering if it’s worth trying to retake the LSAT for a third time, given that my practice scores are so much higher. I’m not sure what I could do differently (other than study even MORE) to have enough of a gain to make a difference.
Would it be better to wait until right before I am ready to apply? Or should I keep up the momentum with studying and retake in June or September? I appreciate any advice you can give.
Thea,
Thanks for writing. There are great prep options and tutors available online and through Skype. I suggest looking into http://www.Inspirica.com for Skype tutoring (call the Boston office) and AtlasLSAT.com or Knewton.com for online (affordable) LSAT Prep courses.
I think you need to try a prep course and these options may work for your schedule and location/situation. I think I would try for the October LSAT and if you don’t feel ready, then December. But you don’t want to stretch this out and spend years studying for this exam.
Good luck, and please let me know if I can help in any way. Ann
Ann
I got a 160 on the LSAT and have a 3.6 gpa majoring in Economics. What would you say my chances of getting into a school like the University of Iowa or Illinois are?
Pete,
As a matter of policy, I cannot give schools advice on the blog format. This is a service I provide to my clients only after reviewing their qualifications. I can’t answer just based on the numbers. For more information, see
Ann
Hi, I have a 142 LSAT score and I only took it once. I have a 3.6 GPA. I’ve applied several places in the IL/MO/IN area and so far I have gotten denied I’m waiting on Valpo but I don’t think it looks too good considering I got denied to SIU. Any thoughts on what I should do? Or what I should do next semester besides taking the LSAT again?
Thanks.
Hi Crystal,
Definitely prepping for the LSAT and working hard to improve each piece of your application. I recommend planning for the October LSAT so you have all summer to concentrate on it. Find a good prep course or tutor that really works for your learning style and schedule. Please let me know if I can help as you work to reapply for Fall 2011.
Ann
I’ll be graduating in May of this year. What else can I do to my application besides improving my score? In addition will my loan deferment stay deferred if I get into law school next year? I don’t know if I could afford to go to law school full time and have a job in which I would have to have to pay back my loans. This year both semesters were filled with 300 -400 level courses (21 credit hours each semester) and 2 internships. I thought my GPA would make my score look less crappy– did they take anything into consideration?
Hi Crystal,
I can’t answer financial aid questions – you need to call your lender to ask that.
Whether your recent courseload was taken into consideration depends upon when you applied, whether you called attention to this effectively, and how your grades were while you handled all of this while taking on two internships. But you sound really motivated and the situation is NOT hopeless.
Ann
I am a horrible standardized test taker and as no surprise to me did horrible on my LSAT. I got a 143 and then decided to retake it again after practicing and getting a tutor and still received a 143. However, I graduated with a major and a minor with a GPA of 3.75. I just don’t know what else to do or add to my application to appeal more to a law school. I applied for 2 here in Atlanta and got put on hold at one school and denied at another. I would just like any suggestions you could offer. Thanks!
Hi Ann,
I have taken the LSAT twice, in December and February, receiving a 144 the first time and 140 the second time. I have a cumulative GPA of 2.10 from FU in CT and I am very interested in going to law school. I currently work as a tax professional and a real estate agent, which has encouraged me to want to help people on a bigger scale. I am realistic about my situation, but I would like to know what chances do you think I have of being accepted to law schools in the tri-state area?
Thanks,
Sarah
Laura, visit the school where you were put on hold. Let them get to know you. You are under consideration – now is the time to pull out all the stops!
Sarah,
With the low GPA and low LSAT combined, this is going to be a very difficult road for you. I never like to tell anyone it’s impossible, but you’re going to have to find a way to show you can make it in an academically rigorous environment. Just having the will to go to law school isn’t enough; your numbers aren’t going to show a law school that the potential for success exists so you’re going to need to seek out a way to prove it. It might include a private LSAT tutor, getting a Masters degree, or any number of things (or all of them).
Good luck in this endeavor.
Ann
How could have I drawn attention to this in my application? I mentioned it in my personal statement saying something along the lines of having a lot on my plate and it being challenging but rewarding or something along those lines. I also mentioned being involved in extra curricular activities and my experiences through my 2 internships that have further shaped my interest in law school. I have been told by numerous people that law schools look at more than numbers and I feel like they all lied to me. I feel that these schools took one look at that 142 and said nope not her. If I don’t get into law school this year what can I do, specifically, to improve my application. I understand the reality that there are 100′s if not 1000′s of applicants that look just like me on paper. What should I do to set myself out side of the pack?
Hi Crystal,
I completely understand your frustration. This is an impossible question for me to answer without reviewing your current application materials. If you were to sign up to work with me for your Fall 2011 applications, I would start by reviewing everything you submitted this year so I can coach you through how we would present your case more effectively. I work with people one on one to decide the exact strategies that will help your application shine and maximize your chances of success. However, the 142 is also undoubtedly a big part of the problem and I would want to work with you to come up with a plan to improve your LSAT score as well.
For more information, you can check out the other tabs at the top of the blog. Sorry I’m unable to tell you what you can do differently without seeing what you’ve already done.
Ann
Hi, I didn’t study much (due to various circumstances) and got a 146, my GPA is 3.7, magna cum laude, double major ENG & PHL, receiving a national award in PHL, president of 3 clubs, excellent LOR’s, speak several languages, and have various other activities/events/skills in my resume. I’m also not originally from the US. My weakness is standardized tests, although I excel in my studies. My professors keep suggesting Yale and Columbia, since they do not know of this weakness and they don’t know my score, nor will they ever know…. I’m very, very ashamed of this.
I’m afraid that my top choice will reject me with the LSAT score that I have, it’s not a top 100 school but it’s a very good school, accepting 153 as its lowest score (according to its admissions site).
I’m going to study like a maniac and retake the test in June, but this will only be considered for the Fall 2011 admissions, and I’m petrified of losing an entire year. I know my chances are slim, I guess I’m just looking to get a some sort of a little boost in mood, since mine hasn’t been up lately. Thank you so much.
Dear Anonymous – I need you to repost your exact comment with a name so that readers can follow the thread of my response. Then I will hopefully provide the boost you need!
Ann,
Everytime I take a practice test, I score in the mid to upper 150′s. I recently took the LSAT and scored a 133. I don’t understand why there is such a drastic drop in numbers, and I don’t know what the appropraite way is now to study. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Ann,
Everytime I take a practice test, I score in the mid to upper 150′s. I recently took the LSAT and scored a 133. I don’t understand why there is such a drastic drop in numbers, and I don’t know what the appropriate way is now to study. Any suggestions?
Thanks!
Hi Sherri,
I think you would greatly benefit from an LSAT tutor who can analyze your performance. Here is a link to a previous post with great LSAT tutor resources. I hope it helps!
http://www.lawschoolexpert.com/blog/low-lsat/looking-for-an-lsat-tutor/
Ann
Hi Ann, re-posting as you asked : ) Thank you so much for your input, I appreciate it greatly.
I unfortunately didn’t have the opportunity for enough practice for the test (due to various circumstances) and got a 146, my GPA is 3.7, magna cum laude, double major ENG & PHL, receiving a national award in PHL, president of 3 clubs, excellent LOR’s, speak several languages, and have various other activities/events/skills in my resume. I’m also not originally from the US. My weakness is standardized tests, although I excel in my studies. My professors keep suggesting Yale and Columbia, since they do not know of this weakness and they don’t know my score, nor will they ever know…. I’m very, very ashamed of this.
I’m afraid that my top choice will reject me with the LSAT score that I have, it’s not a top 100 school but it’s a very good school, with 153 as its 25th percentile score (according to its admissions site).
Right now, I’m studying like a maniac for the next 2 months and retaking the test in June; but for most schools, this will only be considered for the Fall 2011 admissions. I’m petrified of losing an entire year. I don’t know what I would do in this missed year. Although I know my chances are slim with the score I have now, I guess I’m just looking to get some sort of a little boost in mood, since mine hasn’t been up lately. Thank you so much Ann!!! You’re doing an amazing thing here, I’m so glad I found this site.
Hi Camille,
Since you’re very concerned about going to law school as soon as possible, you’ll have to apply now. It’s not a great position to be in – applying late in a very competitive cycle with a low score – but it is what you have to work with so give it your best shot. Then you’ll probably find that you need to take the June LSAT and apply for Fall 2011. I think waiting for Fall 2011 is the better option because it will save you time, money and heartache. Plus, if you submit the best possible applications they won’t have hurried or lackluster applications from the previous year to compare them to.
I wish you all the best!
Ann
Hi Ann, I took my february 2010 Lsat and got a 138, which is horrible! I took the lsat prep course and registered for the test in December, became nervous and did not show up. When February came I did not study and just took the test. I am finishing up my master’s program and have applied to 4 law schools. I am so nervous because I feel as if I will not get in. I am 23 years old, African American, no children, no commitment. My focus is Law School. Should I re take the test and apply for Spring 2011? I applied to Uconn, Fordham, St. John’s, and the University of Miami. Do I stand a chance? My gpa is a 3.6. Another problem that I am having are my advisor’s lack of motivation for writing my letters of recommendations. I ask all the time and I get the same response “we’re working on it” I feel stuck and frustrated.
sorry I meant Fall 2011, I am aware that you only get accepted for the Fall semester
Shon, I think you’ll find you need to plan to take the October LSAT (June is coming up too fast) and you need to really prepare for it since it’s your last chance at the test (unless I’m misunderstanding your testing history). You will need to build a schools list around your LSAT score (whatever it ends up being upon re-take) and perhaps your advisor is trying to tell you he/she doesn’t really want to write you a letter. You may need to consider other avenues.
Hi Ann
I’m new to the blog but I need some advice. In Aug 2010 I will be graduating from a no-name college with a gpa in the 3.1 range. I have only taken the Lsat practice test with Kaplan and I scored a 134. What do you think should be my next course of action?
Evelyn,
Your next course of action? PREPARE FOR THE LSAT. Take a prep course, get a tutor, do what it takes. Then see where you are in a month. If you’re not hitting at least high 140s in 4 weeks of real prep, then postpone until October. But remember, they give you the diagnostic to scare you! It’s meant to show how much prep is needed before the real thing, so don’t get discouraged. Good luck, and welcome to the blog!
Ann
Hello,
I am glad I came across this website. I haven’t taken the LSAT but I have taken the practice LSAT. I don’t remember what my exact scores were but I think they have around a 143. I was wondering if it was possible to study hard enough and go from a 143 to a 160? I plan to study hard and focus on studying for at least 1 or 2 months before I take the real LSAT. My goal is to go to law school. I need to get into law school. I live in Texas and I can go to any law school in Texas. If you can help, or tell me what I need to do to get a 160+ I would greatly appreciate it. I have taken an LSAT prep class but I didn’t get it. Does one have to be naturally smart to get a 160+? I doubt myself, but I know many things are possible if you really put your mind to it. Thank you so much for this website.
Dear Ms. Levine,
The summer before I graduated from my bachelor’s program in 2007 (B.B.A. in Management with a minor in Legal Studies) I studied on my own for the LSAT and received a score of 143 (not so good).
Since graduating from my bachelor’s program I starting working as a full time legal secretary/paralegal in a litigation/real estate/estate law firm. While working full-time I attended Montclair State University in the evening full-time as a graduate student majoring in “Law and Governance.”
This September before graduating I spent only a month re-studying for the LSAT (and from a not so current book). I took the LSAT and received a score of 133 (awful). I decided based on my score that I had not chance in hell and did not apply to any law schools. I graduated my masters program with a 3.5 average. I was going to consider waiting 5 years before re-taking the LSAT as scores tend to become stale. What advice would you give me. Would any schools accept me based on those scores?
Francis,
I have a few thoughts about your comment:
First, I don’t believe in having a goal score because this is an aptitude test. Your goal should only be to get a score that best measures your aptitude. The only way to do that is to adequately prepare for the test.
This brings me to my second point – you haven’t adequately prepared for this test yet. If you “didn’t get” the material in a traditional prep course then you need to invest in a tutor.
Third, given your goals of where you hope to attend school, you should have options at any level so long as you raise your score approximately 10 points. This should be doable in 2 months of good prep for the test.
Fourth, one month of study is not enough. You may want to consider regrouping and taking the October exam.
I wish you all the best. Thanks for reading the blog.
Ann
Nicole,
You need to retake the LSAT with a prep program/tutor that works for you and for your schedule. You don’t have to wait 5 years so long as you improve your score because most schools take the highest score in the index formula. You would then submit an addendum to explain the lower scores.
I wish you all the best in this endeavor.
Ann
Ms. Levine
Thanks for this blog. I received a 147 and was accept to one school in VA beach but decided that I did not want to attend there. I am now on the waiting list for the Univ of Baltimore. I have been kind of down with the waiting progress but this article actually helped to let me know that I was not the only one who felt terrible about their score. If I’m not accepted, I’ll retake the exam in December after taking a prep course. I have no questions for you…just wanted to say thanks for the article.
Hello,
I am currently a senior hoping to graduate in December. I am a double major in History and Political Science and am graduating early. I have a deep interest to go to law school in Texas. I am a little nervous because on my first try of taking the LSAT I scored a 142. My GPA is a 3.9, I am actively involved in the community and school as well as contribute a huge majority of my free time to community service. I am planning to take the LSAT again in the fall. However, if I do not bring my LSAT up a lot can still get into a law school?
Dear Ms. Levin,
Help! Several years ago I took the LSAT and scored in the high 140s range. Since that time I went to work in several Fortune 500 companies like GE. I am also completing my M.A. from Dartmouth. I am registered to take the June LSAT. I have been studying and finding that I am not scoring well at all. Do I have a chance at a decent school in the New York City area? I am interested in the Fordham International Law Program.
My undergraduate GPA was about 3.7 (Cum Laude) and I have very strong grades at Dartmouth.
I have done well in both undergrad and grad school, I have been successful in my career. But, I just can’t seem to do well on the LSAT.
It is really discouraging!
Any advice would be much appreciated.
Best,
Jane
I have a GPA of around a 2.7 from University of Mo-Columbia, I only took the LSAT once I got a 138, I paid a lot of money for the Princeton Review , I really don’t want to taket the LSAT again but am thinking about re taking it in October and apply for the Fall 2011 semester. Is there any schools that you know of would accept me now and if so what schools? I graduated from college in December 2006 in Social Work. I have wanted to be a lawyer since I was 7. I
Hi Matthew,
Let’s see how the new LSAT score comes out before I give you a concrete answer, but your GPA and experiences should count for a lot if your application materials play to your strengths.
I wish you all the best!
Hi Jane,
If you are not improving your score by now, then (1) move your LSAT date to October and (2) find a new, improved way to prepare. Since you’re in NY, check out Steve Schwartz’s LSAT blog http://lsatblog.blogspot.com/ and AtlasLSAT.com.
Be sure to tell them I sent you!
Ann
Ashley, You MUST retake the LSAT. If Princeton Review didn’t work for you, then get a private tutor. Remember that it’s not about the money you paid, it’s about selecting a program that works with your learning style and aptitude. Good luck!
Dear Ms. Levine:
I was supposed to take the lsat on October 2009 but because of a personal matter I was unable to go. I never called to re-schedule the test. Will that hurt me in the future? Right now I’m taking an lsat prep class and in my first practice test I scored 136, then 139, and the latest score about 2 weeks ago was 145. I am studying almost 6 to 8 hours a day. My main concern is the timing, I never get to answer all the questions; always missing 6 or 5. I’m not sure if I should take the test on October or wait until December. Any advice will be very helpful!
Thank you!
Olga,
A “no show” is not the end of the world. I’m much more concerned about your current LSAT prep. You have plenty of time with the October LSAT but please intervene and get a tutor before you keep repeating your mistakes. Good luck!
Hi! I am going to take the lSAT in June for the first time. I have been studying on atnd off from since February. I am in my senior year in college and I will be graduation next year with a BA in Criminal Justice with Honors. My GPA is currently 3.8 but I can raise it to at least 3.9 by the time I leave school. I am super active on and offcampus.I have I have two questions: one, Do you think if I have a low LSAT score, all my other things (such as being an honors student, volunteer work, extra currics, and gpa) will make up for it and I will get into an Columbia Law School? (that’s my first choice-not because it’s an ivy bt because i love their program). and Two: what advice can you give me in the “less than three weeks” i have left to prepare for this exam? I honestly don’t feel i am ready one bit
Tiffany,
How low an LSAT score are we talking about? Where do you go to school? What have you been doing to prepare? What is your aptitude on this exam (based on previous standardized test performance)? How significant are the extracurricular activities and volunteer work? Did you write a thesis? There is so much I would need to know to answer this question wisely. Let me just answer it with these two points:
1. Listen to my podcast – Last Minute Tips for LSAT Takers
2. Do the best YOU can on the test. Once you feel you’ve done YOUR best then look at schools. Your GPA is great and shows dedication and seriousness of purpose. But until we know what your score is, we can’t even begin to talk about schools.
Good luck!
Hey I just took the Lsat in December.. ill be honest I didnt Study for it at all and scored a 140… i have a 3.45 GPA and am a black male. Im Kicking myself for not studying but i still have 2 more attempts at the test. This time i plan on Taking a course and studying very very hard. What advice do you have for someone like me?
Hi Ron,
You definitely learned a lesson that a lot of people learn – you’re not the only one. Definitely take a course and take a lot of practice tests and see if your average scores improve. Once you start to hit a consistent score pattern, you should feel good about taking the test again. If you’re struggling with anything in particular, seek help from a good tutor. You will need an addendum to explain the first score, but you can’t think about that until we know your next score so for now just study.
Good luck!
Hi Ms. Levine
I’ve taken the LSAT three times already, 139, 146 and 147 but that is not even the worst of my problems. I did horribly in college (because i never studied or did any actual work) and my gpa is a ridiculous 2.1 cumulative. Since then, I began work as a paralegal, fell in love with it and want to take the next step. I absolutely appreciate your candor and i need to know if i have a shot at law school. I’ve been told that i should do my masters (even though the schools calculate the index based on your gpa and lsat score) and gain more work experience, i’ve been told to wait 5 years and retake. The bottom line is i cannot change my undergraduate gpa, but what are my options when my lsat score is a 147? I suppose it is also important to note that i live in Jamaica and my transcript could probably benefit from an evaluation/translation.
Hi Ann,
I was wondering if you would happen to have any advice about LSAT scores with regards to Canadian law schools (University of British Columbia and The University of Victoria, specifically)? I have found your blog incredibly interesting, but I am not sure if my situation, which is similar to some of the stories posted, would fit with your advice. Would you be able to refer me to any Canadian-specific online resources?
Just so you know my situation, I am nearing the end of my Honours degree in English Literature with a Minor in Political Science and have a 3.95 GPA – this all from a top 5 Canadian university. I have a fairly full resume, including work experience in a law firm and with the federal government, and an upcoming legislative internship. I’ve taken the LSAT once before, and scored 153. I will be away for 2 months this summer, but would like to retake the LSAT in either October or December of this year. However, I will be also be writing my Honours thesis for its December due date, so things might be a bit stressful and I’m afraid I won’t be able to score any higher than my previous attempt. I could leave it as late as February, but would rather not. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated! And thanks for writing such a helpful blog!
Hi,
I am a recent graduate with a BA in History and a GPA of 3.5. I had a internship at a Law Firm back when I was in school. I have 8 years of experience in Sales. I am 24 years old. I volunteer on regular basis. Had a 4 year scholarship. Well, much involved in the community. I have been studying for Lsat since feb 2010. I am about to take my lsat for the first time in June 2010. My practice scores are 136, 140, 143, 145, 142, 136 and 138. I am very nervous about whats happening to my score and why its going down even though I have studied well and continuously practicing. What do you think I should focus on? I would like to attend M.cooley in Mi.
thank you
Ollie,
You have an uphill battle – I think you know that. I assume you’re a recent graduate? If your transcripts need to be evaluated then definitely take care of that first so that you know what your LSAC Academic Summary GPA will be. The 146 and 147 trend is positive – if you bring diversity and a strong application, there are schools where you may have a chance.
Hi Katie,
I think taking the LSAT while doing your Honors Thesis is a mistake – you’ll be setting yourself up for failure. I’d almost rather see you finish your thesis and prepare for the February LSAT, or just go ahead now and apply to schools where you have a shot with your 153. Your grades are fantastic. However, if you’re applying to Canadian law schools, there aren’t too many that will take a 153 so you might have no choice. It might be worth waiting to apply until after you graduate, take the Sept. 2011 LSAT and apply for the Fall 2012 cycle. Just some options to consider.
WJK, I don’t think you’re ready to take the LSAT. I’m not sure why Cooley is where you’re shooting for…. I think I would wait and study for the October LSAT instead and try to get practice scores up higher (like low 150s) because most people score lower on test day than on practice exams, and your practice scores indicate that might be in the 130s.
While you can take the June LSAT and just plan to retake in October, it can feel pretty demoralizing to come back with a score like that – it’s hard to come back from that, both emotionally and results wise.
Ann
I am unsure if these boards are active or not, but its worth a shot! Ann, I am scheduled to take my first LSAT this coming Monday. To say I am nervous is an understatement.
My preliminary practice test to determine if law school was merely a pipe dream from a year ago was 160. I have taken probably about 20 practice tests since then, and I only scored a 160 twice. My scores ranged from 152 to 160 with 156 being the mode.
I tried to take the tests in non-ideal situations, with my children running amuck in the house.
My problem is i feel unprepared for the test. I have tried to improve my scores with various workbooks from the used bookstore, mainly Kaplan books and logic games workbooks. It is the logic games section which consistently my downfall.
I would love a mid 160 score which would enable me to apply with a bit of confidence to Univ Texas, but I will be happy with a mid 150 and possible admission to St. Mary’s in San Antonio.
I would appreciate advice whether to go ahead and take the test, or possibly try different study tactics (pay an outrageous sum for a prep course) and take the test in October for Early admission cycle in Nov.
I appreciate any response, perhaps I just need a sympathetic ear to vent to who knows how stressful this one test can be. I thought proverbial wisdom has taught us not to put all our eggs in one basket, but it sure seems the LSAT is just that – a large egg basket. Or, perhaps at this point, I’m the basket(case). Thanks!
Jason,
Thanks for writing. Yes, take the LSAT. You’ve studied consistently and your scores are consistent. Take the test. If it doesn’t come back 154-157 then you can try to retake in October using a prep course – hopefully an affordable one.
good luck!
Hi! I got a dilemma that I need some help/guidance with. I am currently am a rising junior at the University of Maryland and majoring in Biochemistry. At first I thought that I wanted to go to Medical school and do something related in the medical field. The past two summers I have been interning at a Law Firm and have realized that I have developed a passion for law. The only issue is that I am struggling in Biochemistry with like a 2.3 at the moment and things aren’t getting much better. I was wondering do you think that switching to major like Economics; would help the GPA aspect because I know I will not be a competitive applicant with sub 3.0 GPA. I feel that changing my major will give me a semi fresh start allow me to start raising my GPA. I have plans to start preparing for the LSAT but I am just wondering what is the best way to position myself in order to be competitive in the application process.
Winston, If it’s not too late to change your major, I would do it. The upward trend in your grades would be very persuasive. Good luck!
Dear Ann,
Thought I would ask if you have ever come across a tutor for LSAT in the DC area who has experience with dyslexia. GPA 3.78 Work experience on the Hill but no luck finding anyone who gets the issues in prepping for test with this particular issue. Any recommendations?
Hi Stephanie, try Advantage Testing but be warned that they can be very pricey. Be sure to ask about pricing options. I also highly recommend INspirica.com but they aren’t located in DC. They might do skype tutoring in DC or have a tutor or two in the area. Tell them I sent you.
Dear Ann,
I graduated from UC-Santa Barbara in September of 2009 with a B.A. in History. My cumulative GPA was 2.92. I took the LSATs last year in December but was not confident in my score so I decided to cancel it. I took the the LSATs again this past June and got a 149. I know that, with my qualifications, I likely won’t be admitted into the top-tier schools. However, I was wondering what are my chances getting into law school period. I’m from the San Francisco area so Golden Gate University would be among my top choices.
Hi Jeffrey,
I don’t give school specific advice in the blog format, but yes- I think you’re looking at the right school in the Bay Area. You have a shot at getting into law school – but I’d have to know more – grade trend, how you were doing on practice LSATs, resume, etc. That’s why I can’t answer those kinds of questions in this format. You should think about whether retaking the LSAT would pay off for you, but even if you think it won’t then I think you have potential to succeed.
Ann
PS. I’m in Santa Barbara!
Dear Ann, I am 33yo with polisci major & minor in legal thought. Former US Marine with post-military GPA of 3.75(last 3 yrs of college) & overall 3.3 due to a misstep or two in mid-90′s. Legislative internship, strong letters, and personal statement. Problem:2 cncld LSATs & 1 very bad 144 in June. Tier 3/4 possible?
David,
This year, I didn’t take any clients with a 144. The year before I did, and they are now 2Ls at California Western and Western New England. But they both had good GPAs and life experience (like you). However, I would definitely feel better if we could get your LSAT up 3-4 points. It would make a big difference in the outcome. The two examples I mentioned were before the recession started (before the big upswing in apps).
Ann
Hi Ann,
I have taken the LSAT twice.. First score was a horrible 138. This june’s score was a 149. I was usually scoring in the low to mid 150′s on practice tests. My current GPA is a 3.6 at Umass Boston(majors:psychology/philosophy, as well as working on certificate in philosophy and law program). I was wondering the chance of getting into New England/Western New England with those numbers? I know the lsat score is low but i know i can prove myself in law school if given the chance. Any thoughts/suggestions. Thank you
Lo, Congrats on the fantastic improvement! Yes, you’re looking at the right schools. Just create amazingly strong applications and I feel good about your chances!
Ann
I scored a 149 on a practice LSAT and I have 2.7 ugpa. I’m an African American male and wanted to know if certain schools offer a boost to underrepresented minorities?
Thank you
Mike – Yes. (easiest question of the day! : )
Hi Ann,
my friend took the LSAT last year and got a 148 and took the June one this year but unfortunately scored a 146. I don’t know what happened because she was scoring 152-154 on practice tests. GPA is low as well. Any chances of getting into law school such as Thomas Jefferson? What advice do you suggest?
Sabrina,
Your friend can try – she shouldn’t retake the LSAT because it looks like she is within a certain scoreband, and Thomas Jefferson should take the highest score. She may or may not need an LSAT addendum depending on the circumstances. How low is the GPA? If its a 2.5 and there’s nothing else really remarkable about her candidacy, it may not work out in her favor….. Before I can give advice about candidacy for a specific school, I need a lot more information – I need to see transcripts and resume, inquire about diversity, etc.
But, the good news is that it’s not completely hopeless.
Hi, Ann
I took a LSAT and scored 153. I am from a China and intend to apply a law school in Canada. Is there any hope for me.
Anne He, please see: http://www.lawschoolbound.com for help with Canadian law school applications. Good luck!
Hi,
I took the LSAT three times and average out at 140. My GPA is a 4.0 and I applied to 12 law schools and got accepted into 2, Thomas Cooley and Florida Coastal. I was wonderding if I will have a good shot at transferring out ( maybe University of Michigan) of either school into a Tier 1 school, with excellent grades? or am I stuck in the 4th tier because I am almost sure that those bad LSAT scores will come back to haunt me.
Thanks
Victoria – congrats on getting two acceptances!!!!
It’s very hard to transfer from those 2 schools – for many reasons. At THomas Cooley, many are academically dismissed and are just fighting for the chance to get back into any law school.
In terms of U of Michigan, you have to remember that everyone at the Top 25 schools are trying to transfer into the Top 10…. You’re not going to realistically be able to transfer from either of those schools to University of Michigan. You may be able to transfer to a T3 or another T4, but only if your grades are really strong. It’s not your LSAT that will haunt you – when you transfer it’s all about the caliber of your law school and your academic performance there.
[...] a great question. The most popular blog post I ever did on my LawSchoolExpert.com blog addresses this very question, very low LSAT scores and [...]
Hey Ann
I received a 143 on my Lsat and have a G.P.A of 3.5 what are my chances at 2nd and 3rd tier schools? Thanks for your input!
Jan,
You need to try to retake the LSAT. I noticed you also commented on the post about the Atlas LSAT workshop. Why don’t you give a new prep method a try and see if you’re able to raise your score?
Ann
I will be a senior at Emory University this fall. I just took the LSAT for the first time in June, scoring a 156, about consistent with my practice scores, but still slightly disappointing for my goal of low-mid 160s. I also have a cumulative GPA of 3.15. Is there any weight given to my application by coming from a top 20 college with a GPA on the lower-end? Also, does it look strange to employers to graduate from a significantly lower-ranked law school after graduating from a top-tier university? I am starting to wonder if I would have been better off attending a state university to get a higher GPA.
Thank you!
Amanda, going to Emory is a good thing. Really. And there’s nothing you can do about it now. I believe in worrying about the things within your control and not worrying about the things outside of your control. The LSAT is within your control, but if you practiced sufficiently and your 156 was in line with practice exams, then you’re probably not a great candidate to retake the LSAT. Just wanting a mid-160s score isn’t really relevant; this is why having a goal score doesn’t really work.
I would start preparing your schools list and application materials based on your current credentials and see how you do.
Ann
hi
me again lol
i took the lsat and got a score in the low 130s
the entire exam was way too stressful for me
the entire provess really….
i am not retaking the test
so where should i apply to in NY?
owever i wanted to give u a little background..
GPA: 3.885(I can get it up to 3.9 by the time i graduate)
Graduate: June 2011
Honors student
I’m getting scholarships
Heavily involved on and off campus
Interned at a police department
I do volunteer work for fun =)
positive role model
made the Presidents List every semester I.ve been at college
Getting my degreee in Bachelors of Criminal Justice (with Honors)
here’s my story:
My Journey Through The LSAT
For the most part, I pretty much aspired to be an attorney since my high school days. When I moved to New York, I focused intensely on my schoolwork, in efforts to achieve high marks. However, I did not realize that I miscalculated one entire year. I thought I had more time than I actually did which unfortunately, took a toll on my preparation for law school. When I sat down to review all my undergraduate work and finally prepare for the transition to grad school in December, I realized I wasted a lot of time and I had to get things moving quickly if I wanted to achieve my dream. I took the first step by deciding to take the June 2010 LSATs. However, because of finances, I also made the decision to study on my own (huge risk) and to purchase some materials. I eventually was able to buy a Princeton Review LSAT book in February. I began the preparations and the journey to what would be a memorable experience.
I listened to the advice of my professors as well as searched for tips and tricks of the LSAT. Understanding the material was way harder than I could ever imagine because you literally had to rearrange your thinking to understand and grasp the concepts. Many times, I opened the book with high hopes of conquering the material, only to close it several minutes later with tears in my eyes and a mindset of defeat. This is the first time in my life I have ever experienced what an anxiety attack is. Learning about it in my psychology classes was one thing, but actually being the victim of several was a heavy burden. Studying for the test took a toll on my self-esteem as well as my schoolwork. Around the time I was prepping, I was not able to give ample time to my studies. Therefore, I ended the Winter 2010 semester pretty badly and started off the Spring semester pretty rocky. This experience by itself was horrific in itself but unfortunately, outside factors and personal unfavorable situations landed me in a state of depression. I though the worst was over when Sunday, June 6th, 2010 rolled around. Simply because I faced the fact that there was nothing more I could learn at that point for it was the day before the test. I was joyful and actually looking forward to the test, more so, the end of the test. However, just like life is unexpected, so was the day of my test.
June 7th, 2010. This was probably one of the most exhausting and painful days of my life. My classmate and friend, Jessica Orozco, took the test with me. There were so many complications with the test on that day. When I arrived on site, (by the way, when I visited the testing site a few days earlier, they showed me the wrong building) the proctor was so rude and aggressive towards me. I was about 2 hours early. I’m thankful to God I did because I had to use that time to figure out multiple issues and calm my emotions down. Firstly, I had to figure out where the correct location of my site was supposed to be. The address on my ticket did not match up to the actual location of the June 2010 LSAT examination. Even though it was one building away, I was still uneasy. When I found the correct floor, the proctor would not let me come in because of my bag. On the directions, it said that I was to have a clear plastic bag filled with certain items that I would be allowed to take into the testing site. I had that bag. However, I was coming from Westchester all the way to Manhattan to the Metropolitan Pavilion. I kindly asked the man if I could put it in the corner. In a rough aggressive voice he said, “No, go find some place to put it. I don’t know where you can put it.” He then turned his back and went on his merry way. I almost burst into tears because I just traveled for about an hour and if I went back home there was no way I would be able to make it in time. I called several people and I finally decided to suck it up and ask one of the people in the offices to hold my bag. I would have to put my utmost faith in God to guard my stuff since I did not know who these people were. I found someone about 20 minutes before the test who I believe was my angel that day. I was fingerprinted and sent into the test.
According to all the advice I had received about the LSAT I was supposed to spend my morning warming up my brain with some practice problems. I was not even able to do that because I was completely stressed out. This was certainly NOT a good way to start a test that I paid over a hundred dollars for. When Jessica finally arrived (because I warned her of everything that I went through beforehand so she could take the necessary precautions), she motioned to me that there were bags in the corner of the room! I marched up to the proctor and asked him why I was supposed to leave my stuff with a random person and he was allowing other students after me to keep their bags in the corner of the testing room. He did not have an answer but told me if I wanted, I have one minute to run up 3 flights of stairs, retrieve my things, and make it back down for the test. If I was not back before the test began, I was going to be shut out of it. I did not want to risk it, even though the woman with my stuff was only going to be there until 5pm (and this test stretched until approximately 6pm). I cursed the man under my breath and went to sit back down. Another proctor came after me and we made a deal that during my 15-minute break I would go retrieve my belongings and come back for the test. It was a better deal. I took it. I prayed and started my test. With all the practicing I did, I reached my one and only goal – which was to fill in every bubble (there are no lost points for guesses or wrong answers). I burnt out emotionally, physically, and mentally by the second section.
After the third section, I finally went to retrieve my bag. I took the ancient elevator up to the sixth floor. Now, I had to figure out how to get someone to open the door, since it was closed…..my luck! I finally decided to take the phone located outside the door and just ask for help. I was able to get inside, thank my angel of the day, and return to the testing site. The decision making process was at work yet again. This time I was faced with using the last seven minutes of my break to either eat my lunch and then rush to the bathroom or rush to the bathroom and then eat my lunch. I ended up choosing neither option. The line to the women’s bathroom was about 15 girls long, while the line to the men’s bathroom was four people long. I wish I could have exchanged bodies at the moment. I decided to eat my lunch on the bathroom line. I was the only one to do so but desperate times call for desperate measures. I ended up using the men’s bathroom and returning to my lemonade, which I drank in thirty seconds flat. I was ready to call it quits but decided against it. I would toughen up and finish the rest of the test. I went back to work on a test that became foreign to me. Unfortunately, I felt that the writing sample was the part of the test I did the best on and of course was the part of the test that was unscored. The test ended and while I was disappointed with myself, I was happy to have fought this dragon. I walked out of there with a little smile on my face. I realized that I was stronger than I thought and could endure more than I imagined. That was a good thought to end the day with.
Epilogue
I received my LSAT test results and they were nothing close to my targeted goal. I did poorly on the test. However, I have always wondered if law was the right field for me. The experience opened my eyes to what my heart was trying to tell me all along. I should not pursue a career that I “think” I should go into. Rather, I should go into a career that I love passionately. My newfound truth has helped me to abide by the following quote by a very smart man:
“If you choose a job you love, you will never have to work a day in your life”
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Now i was wondering if law really is for me
i was looking into pursuing my masters in public administration at binghamton university
all i know is that i want to work with the community
kinda why i wanted to go into law so i could do public service
still debating whether or not to apply to law school
but i’m DEFINATELY NOT retaking the LSATS
that’s for sure
…..so what do you think? lol
Tiffany,
If you cannot retake the LSAT, you will not make it through law school and you will not pass the bar. That might be harsh truth, but that’s how you need to approach this challenge; how we approach challenges in life dictates our success.
I wish you all the best.
Ann,
I took a practice LSAT and my preliminary score is a 137. I realize this is horrible. I have hired a tutor to personally aide me in improving this score. The question that I have is in my potential for improvement on this score. I have a 3.93 GPA at Stony Brook University. I was a sergeant in the United States Marine Corps and was awarded several medals/commendations. Will these accomplishments/GPA offset my LSAT score when applying? (realizing that I will need to improve drastically). Do you think that a tutor can help me make these drastic improvements by the December test? In any event, thanks for any advice you might provide.
Angelo
Angelo,
You have PLENTY of time to significantly raise your score before December. Plenty of time. Hiring a tutor is a great step in the right direction. Keep me posted on your progress – your GPA and accomplishments are fantastic but you still have a lot of time to bring your LSAT where it needs to be.
My C Average GPA is horrible due to being in the military while getting my double major and minor. I was pulled out multiple times for a deployment to Iraq, Hurricane duty, military schools, and worked a student job (36 hr/week) while attending school full time. I understand I wont be working while attending law school and I can financially manage that now. My LSAT was a 149 on the first try but I know I can do much better on the games section which I had studied for and slacked before the test. I was getting a 152-155 on the practice tests. What are some schools that will rank my LSAT score higher than my GPA and might give me some leeway due to my military service?
Brent,
Every school will place more emphasis on your LSAT and military service. Every school that accepts people with your LSAT score regularly, that is. You just have to create the materials that entice them to do so.
Ann
I took the lsat in June and got a 153. I graduated from the University of Chicago with a 3.56 gpa while working 20-30 hours a week to pay tuition and cover my expenses, and I’m really intersted in public service law. My resume is packed full of work experience in nonprofits and working on different social issues. I’m planning on taking the LSAT again in december. My dream school is UCLA but I’m not sure if thats realistic. I’m definitely applying to lower ranked schools as well but I’m wondering if its even worth applying and if I stand a chance at getting in at UCLA with a higher score. How much of an improvement would I have to make on the upcoming December test for this to be a reality and would it be possible?? I would really appreciate some light on this issue so that I’m not setting myself up for the impossible.
Hi Susan,
I’m pretty sure we talked yesterday and I answered your question then, but let me know if there’s anything further you’d like to discuss!