My most-read blog topics are those dealing with very low LSAT scores; there are a lot of you out there. The original post is from 2008, and since it’s now 2024, I think it’s time for an update:
The LSAT is scored from 120-180, and an average score is about 150. Here is a current breakdown of percentiles of scores for 2024 (but note that these may shift after the August 2024 LSAT when logic games will no longer be part of the test):
People often ask me whether their scores are “too low” to attend law school. If your score is 150 or above, it’s not a particularly low score, depending on which law school you want to attend and how your GPA balances your LSAT for that school. Let’s focus this conversation for those of you below a 147 LSAT. In general, if you are in the mid-140’s or above, I have had success helping applicants fulfill their law school admission goals as long as people are flexible about where to attend and you’re willing to pay full price for law school. But once you get below that number, you’re fighting an uphill battle.
What a Low LSAT Score Means
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). And you’ll be paying full price if you get lucky enough to get into one of these questionable schools where the outcomes are far from guaranteed.
Conditional Acceptance Programs
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 into Nova Southeastern 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.
JDNext
If you do not perform well on standardized tests, you may want to consider being a guinea pig for the JDNext program. Beginning in 2024, many law schools have agreed to admit (or at least consider) candidates who participate in this course and complete its exam in lieu of a standardized test score. However, I anticipate that if you already have a low LSAT score, this is what the law schools will rely upon. JDNext may be worth looking into if you have not yet taken the LSAT.
Re-Taking the LSAT
Law schools use the highest of multiple LSAT scores. Law schools do not average LSAT scores. If you haven’t exhausted your opportunities to take the LSAT, then take it again. However, you must change how you prepare. And don’t rush the process; give yourself time to prepare and keep in mind that you can take the LSAT a limited number of times. Only retake the test if your practice exam scores are in a range where you would be happy with the outcome. 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. (This is why I often tell people with low LSAT scores to come back to me when they have a higher score; I don’t want you to waste your money!)
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 in the hopes that this helps you make good decisions about your future.
Should you Take the GRE?
Once you have an LSAT score on record, that’s what law schools will count in your application. However, you may choose to submit a GRE score in lieu of an LSAT score for most law schools. Check school requirements if you’re interested in submitting your GRE scores instead of an LSAT score.
If you’re concerned about your Low LSAT or Low GPA, you can contact me to schedule a consultation where we can discuss your options.
