You may be wondering how many times can you take the LSAT.
The answer is seven.
Actually, it is five times within five years and seven times overall. Thankfully, there are ways to reduce the likelihood that you’ll need to take it more than once. This starts with understanding the rules and implications of retaking this law school admission test.
I’ve explained all of this in this short read.
Key Takeaways
- LSAT Retake Limits: You can take this law school entrance exam five times within the current and past five testing years. For your lifetime, the limit is seven.
- Multiple Scores Consideration: Law schools may view all your LSAT scores, with some considering the highest score and others potentially averaging multiple scores.
- Strategic Retakes: Retaking the LSAT can be beneficial if your initial score is significantly lower than practice tests or if technical difficulties or anxiety affect your performance.
- Preparation and Costs: Effective preparation through practice tests and LSAT prep courses can improve your score, and fee waivers are available to help manage the costs of retaking the test.
LSAT Retake Limits
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) has set specific limits on how many times you can take the LSAT, which as of now are:
- Five times within the current and past five testing years.
- Seven times in a lifetime.
These limits ensure that test takers do not attempt the LSAT excessively within a short period, which could lead to diminishing returns and increased stress.
Important Considerations for LSAT Retakes
Tests taken prior to September 2019 are not counted toward the numerical limits set by the LSAC. The limits exclude absences and withdrawals but include canceled scores, including those canceled with the Score Preview option.
Additionally, test takers are not permitted to retake the LSAT if they have already scored a perfect 180 within the current reportable score period, which began in June 2018.
Understanding LSAT Scores
LSAT scores range from 120 to 180, with the average LSAT score typically around 150. Your LSAT score is a significant factor in law school admissions and is often considered alongside your GPA and other application components. Most law schools receive all your LSAT scores from LSAC, though many schools primarily consider your highest LSAT score.
Multiple LSAT Scores
Having multiple LSAT scores on your record can have various implications. While some law schools take the highest score, others may average multiple scores or consider them all. It is crucial to check each law school’s policy on multiple LSAT scores to understand how they will interpret your results.
When to Retake the LSAT
Deciding to retake the LSAT depends on several factors:
- First Score: If your first LSAT score is significantly lower than your practice test scores, it may be worth retaking the test.
- Practice Tests: If you consistently score higher on practice tests, a retake might result in a higher score.
- Unexpected Test Anxiety: If unexpected test anxiety or technical difficulties adversely affect your performance on test day, retaking the LSAT could be beneficial.
- Law School Admission Goals: Consider the average LSAT scores of the law schools you aim to attend. If your score is below their median, a retake could improve your chances of admission.
Preparing for a Retake
Effective preparation is key to improving your LSAT score. Here are some strategies:
- Identify Weaknesses: Analyze your previous LSAT results to identify areas where you need improvement.
- More Practice Tests: Taking more practice tests under timed conditions can help you get accustomed to the test format and improve your time management.
- LSAT Prep Courses: Enrolling in an LSAT prep course can provide structured study plans and expert guidance.
- Score Preview: Consider purchasing the score preview option, which allows you to see your score before deciding whether to keep it or cancel it.
Canceled LSAT Scores
You have the option to cancel your LSAT score within six days after the test date if you believe your performance was not reflective of your abilities. However, law schools will see that you canceled a score, which may require an addendum explaining the reason.
Conclusion
Understanding the rules and strategies for retaking the LSAT can significantly influence your law school admissions process. While there are limits on how many times you can take the LSAT, careful planning and preparation can help you achieve your desired score. Consider your first LSAT score, the policies of your target law schools, and the benefits of retaking the test to make an informed decision. With the right approach, you can maximize your chances of success and secure admission to your preferred law school.
FAQ
Taking the LSAT three times is within the acceptable limits set by the Law School Admission Council. Most law schools focus on your highest LSAT score rather than the number of attempts.
Most law schools consider your highest LSAT score, but some may look at all your scores. It’s important to check each law school’s policy on multiple LSAT scores to understand their approach.
Yes, the LSAC limits test takers to five attempts within the current and past five testing years and seven attempts in a lifetime.
Taking the LSAT four times is permissible within the LSAC’s limits. Ensure that each attempt is a strategic effort to improve your score, and consider the impact on your law school applications.
Yes, you can retake the LSAT if you cancel your score. Canceled scores do not count towards your attempt limits, but law schools will see that you canceled a score.
The current reportable score period for the LSAT includes scores from the past five testing years. Law schools receive all LSAT scores within this period when you apply.
