Reasons why some people consider retaking the LSAT
The LSAT assesses skills that are needed for success during the first year of law school. So if you’ve taken the LSAT once, or even more than once, and don’t believe your score accurately reflects your skills, you may be considering whether to retest. While retaking the LSAT is not for everyone, some individuals choose to retest because of a variety of factors. Here are some of the considerations we hear from test takers:
“My LSAT score isn’t commensurate with my ability.”
For those seeking different results, LSAC encourages candidates to explore the breadth of test prep, including free resources and practice tests, to strengthen their readiness for test day. Learn more about our authentic LSAT practice tests and prep materials.
“My test day experience wasn’t what I expected.”
Test day is not a day for surprises. It’s easy to get thrown by a situation that doesn’t align with preconceived notions. Some test takers believe their performance will improve once they know what to expect. Learn more about preparing for the LSAT.
“I had stress and hurdles to overcome on test day.”
Personal situations, illness, or challenging logistics on test day can all contribute to anxiety — and added stress does not generally support positive testing outcomes. Plan ahead and learn more about taking the LSAT.
About Your LSAT Score
How many times may I take the LSAT?
- Five times within the current reportable score period (i.e., since June 2018).
- A total of seven times over a lifetime.
For complete details, and to learn how to request an appeal, please visit Limits on Repeating the Test.
How likely is my LSAT score to improve if I retake the LSAT?
The majority of test takers increase their score on the second test. However, some test takers’ scores do not change, and some even experience a score decrease. Analyses indicate that, on average, test takers taking their second test in the same testing year increase their scores 2 to 3 points.
To help ensure every test taker has access to high-quality study resources, LSAC has partnered with Khan Academy to provide free personalized LSAT prep tools — including interactive lessons, timed practice tests, and more, at Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep®. LSAC also provides four full free PrepTests, or more than 75 full Official LSAT PrepTests® for just $115, through LSAC’s LawHub.
If you would like to retake the LSAT but are concerned that your score might drop, consider purchasing LSAT Score Preview. This option will give you six days to decide whether to keep or cancel your score after it’s been released to you. If you decide to cancel your score, it will not be added to your LSAC file and will not be released to law schools. You can purchase Score Preview before your test administration begins for $45, or for $75 during a specified period after you take the test. (Exact deadlines are available at LSAT Dates, Deadlines, and Score Release Dates.) Starting with the August 2022 LSAT administration, Score Preview is now available to all LSAT takers, regardless of how many times you’ve previously taken the test.
I did not study for my first LSAT administration. How should I prepare for a retake?
Like any assessment, you will do your best work on the LSAT if you are comfortable with the format and timing of the exam and familiar with the analytical reasoning, logical reasoning, and reading comprehension questions you will encounter in each section. There are many ways to prepare, including free online resources or paid test prep courses, so choose the approach that works best for you.
To help ensure every test taker has access to high-quality study resources, LSAC has partnered with Khan Academy to provide free personalized LSAT prep tools — including interactive lessons, timed practice tests, and more, at Khan Academy Official LSAT Prep®. LSAC also provides four full free PrepTests, or more than 75 full Official LSAT PrepTests® for just $115, through LSAC’s LawHub.
Is a retake included with my approved LSAC fee waiver?
Yes, an LSAC fee waiver covers up to two LSATs within the two-year fee waiver period.
For more information, visit Fee Waivers for the LSAT & Credential Assembly Service (CAS).
How do law schools’ admission committees consider multiple LSAT scores?
When you apply to a law school, the admission committee receives a copy of all your reportable LSAT scores. This includes all valid scores earned during the current testing year and the previous five testing years. (For more information, please review LSAT Scoring.) LSAC advises law schools that a candidate’s average LSAT score is the best predictor of their ability. However, some schools place more weight on a candidate’s highest score. Each school has its own approach to the admission process, so you should contact the schools you are interested in directly.
If I’m satisfied with my score, what should I do next?
Many candidates choose to apply to law school after taking the LSAT just one time. You may find LSAC’s UGPA/LSAT Search Tool useful as you narrow down potential schools. Our tool will give you some information about UGPA and LSAT ranges that typify admitted students, but law schools take into consideration additional factors to assess the whole candidate. We encourage you to contact the law schools in which you’re interested to best understand the factors that each school considers.
You can get started on your applications through your LSAC account.
LSAT Resources and Support
Prepare for test day success!
Regardless of the reason, a decision to retest should involve a commitment to reset. Different outcomes require a different approach. We strongly recommend that you alter, enhance, or expand your path to preparation. LSAC offers many tools to support that preparation journey.
Learn more about our authentic LSAT test prep, including practice tests.
If you’re satisfied with your score, take the next step…
Many candidates choose to apply to law school after taking the LSAT just one time. You may find LSAC’s UGPA/LSAT Search Tool useful as you narrow down potential schools. Our tool will give you some information about UGPA and LSAT ranges that typify admitted students, but law schools take into consideration additional factors to assess the whole candidate. We encourage you to contact the law schools in which you’re interested to best understand the factors that each school considers.
You can get started on your applications through your LSAC account.
Get started on your law school applications