Apply now and retake LSAT, or retake first then apply? Forum

[EnglandPrevails1]

Hi. Non-traditional applicant (age 32), LSAT 160, GPA 3.82, former doctor (MD)

I got a disappointing LSAT score. My Khan scores were consistently 169-170 and I was hoping for 165+ but I panicked on the logic games section and underperformed on the others somewhat. Anyway, I think with more practice I feel confident I can get to 165, perhaps more if lucky. My concern is waiting so late in the cycle to retake the test in late January.

So, more of a logistics question. Can I apply now and retake the LSAT, hoping for a better score? Will schools keep my application on file and get an update to my LSAT, or will they make a decision before they see a new score and decide accordingly? If I'm hoping to get a scholarship, will the higher score (if I get it) help?

Any help/advice would be much appreciated.

[cavalier1138]

If you apply and register for another LSAT, they usually put a hold on your application while waiting for your new score to come in. So if you have your apps ready to go, probably won't make much of a difference when you officially send them in. But absolutely retake.

[asapheebs]

So is it beneficial to say that we're taking another LSAT?

[cavalier1138]

So is it beneficial to say that we're taking another LSAT?

I'm not sure whether "beneficial" is the right word. If you register for another LSAT, it will basically put a hold on your applications. In general, that's probably good if you expect a score increase, but that's assuming you actually get the higher score.

That's why the most beneficial track is to not apply until you have the score you need.