So, you’ve taken the LSAT, and now you’re facing the big question: should you retake the LSAT? This is a crucial decision that can significantly impact your chances of admission to law school and scholarship opportunities. In this article, we’ll break down the key factors to consider when deciding whether to retake the LSAT and provide proven strategies to improve your LSAT score and ace your law school application in 2025.

Why Consider an LSAT Retake?

Many factors can lead someone to consider an LSAT retake. It’s vital to assess your situation honestly and determine if a retake is the right path for you. Always keep in mind that the LSAT is a means to an end, your path to law school and becoming a practicing attorney.

  • Disconnect Between Perceived and Actual Performance: Test-day nerves can create a disconnect between perceived and actual results. Many test-takers walk out of the exam feeling unsure, with some even thinking their score could be anywhere from a perfect 180 to a much lower 150. This feeling is normal. LSAT performance can feel like a blur, making it difficult to gauge how well you did.

  • Aiming for a Higher Score: Law schools primarily look at your highest LSAT score. If you believe you didn’t put your best foot forward or want to improve your chances of admission and maximize your scholarship opportunities, an LSAT retake is a smart option.

  • Score Preview: If you are a first-time test taker, consider using Score Preview if available. This allows you to see your score and make an informed decision about whether to cancel, rather than canceling blindly.

Student thinking of retaking the LSAT

Key Factors to Consider Before You Retake the LSAT

Before you jump into retaking the LSAT, consider these essential factors:

  • Timeline and Deadlines: Be mindful of law school application deadlines. Strategically schedule your retake to allow ample time for studying and score reporting.

  • Back-to-Back Scheduling: Many students opt to schedule their LSAT retake close to their first attempt to maintain momentum. This approach can provide a “backup” score while keeping the test fresh in your mind. If your first score meets your expectations, you can always cancel the second attempt. Some test-takers find that having a second test scheduled actually reduces anxiety and improves performance. Knowing there is another opportunity just around the corner can allow you to relax, take a breath, and perform better.

  • The Cost vs. Benefit: The LSAT registration fee may seem like a significant expense, but when considered in the context of law school tuition and potential scholarships, it is a small investment. A higher LSAT score can translate into substantial financial aid, saving you tens of thousands of dollars in tuition. While the cost of retaking the test is not negligible, it is important to weigh it against the long-term financial benefits.

  • Fee Waiver Programs: If the cost is a concern, explore LSAC’s fee waiver program, which can cover the cost of the test.

  • ABA 509 Reports: Before retaking the LSAT, research law schools’ ABA 509 reports to gain insight into their employment outcomes, statistics for incoming classes, and average debt levels for students. These reports provide valuable context for LSAT preparation by showing the scores needed to be competitive at different schools. Unfortunately, many applicants overlook this resource, even though it is a powerful tool for making informed decisions about law school admissions and financial planning. By reviewing these reports, you can set realistic goals and better understand how your LSAT score will impact your law school options.

Who Should Definitely Consider an LSAT Retake?

Here are scenarios where retaking the LSAT is highly recommended:

  • Limited Score Increase: If your LSAT score has increased by fewer than 10 points from your initial LSAT diagnostic test, there is likely room for further improvement. Many students see significant gains with continued structured preparation, especially if they focus on refining their test-taking strategies and addressing weaknesses.

  • Underperforming on Test Day: Test-day anxiety, lack of sleep, or unexpected distractions can lead to a score that does not reflect your true potential. If your official LSAT score was significantly lower than your LSAT practice test average, a retake is a smart move. Scheduling your retake soon after your first attempt allows you to capitalize on the experience while the test material and format are still fresh in your mind. Many test-takers find that familiarity with the test-day environment helps reduce anxiety and leads to better performance on a second attempt.

  • Person Holding White Scroll

    Believing You Can Improve: If you feel that additional preparation could help you score even a few points higher, it is often worth retaking the exam. Those extra points can make a substantial difference in admissions decisions and merit-based financial aid offers. Even a small improvement could mean the difference between getting into a reach school or receiving a significant scholarship offer.

  • Potential Scholarship Increase: A higher LSAT score does not just impact admissions—it can also directly translate into financial benefits. Research suggests that each additional LSAT point is worth approximately $10,000 in scholarship money. Considering the overall cost of law school, even a modest score increase could lead to significant savings.

LSAT Retake Strategies: Proven Ways to Improve Your Score

If you’ve decided to retake the LSAT, here’s how to maximize your chances of success and achieve a higher LSAT score:

  • Reflect and Adapt: Analyze your previous performance to identify areas for improvement. Determine what strategies worked and what didn’t.

  • Adjust Your Study Plan: Focus on your weaknesses and refine your approach. Consider different study materials or techniques.

  • Practice Like It’s Game Day: Simulate test conditions during your practice sessions to build endurance and manage test-day anxiety.

  • Address Timing Issues: If you struggled with timing, practice pacing yourself and answering questions efficiently.

  • Maintain Consistency: Establish a consistent study schedule to stay in the zone and avoid losing momentum, especially in the retake process.

  • Have a Target and a Backup: Setting a clear test date gives you a concrete goal to work toward, but it is also wise to have a fallback option. Having both a primary and backup test date provides flexibility while keeping you on track. Many successful test-takers plan for a target date while allowing themselves the option of a later test if they need additional preparation time.

Maximizing Your LSAT Score: Mindset and Preparation Tips

Retaking the LSAT requires more than just studying; it’s about cultivating the right mindset and implementing effective preparation strategies. Here are some tips to help you maximize your score:

  • Stay Positive: Maintain a positive attitude and believe in your ability to improve your LSAT Score.

  • Manage Test-Day Anxiety: Develop strategies for managing anxiety and staying calm under pressure.

  • Continuous Studying: Maintain momentum by scheduling consistent study blocks.

  • Plan Ahead: Consider plan A, B, and C target test dates to stay organized and focused.

  • Adapt with Extra Time: If you qualify for extra time, be sure to practice with longer study blocks to build endurance.

“If you’ve only studied for two months, you can get more points. Another two months is going to get you. It may not get you the same as the first two months, but it will get you a few.”

Conclusion: Is an LSAT Retake Right for You?

Deciding whether to retake the LSAT is a personal choice, but understanding the factors involved can help. Evaluate your performance and consider the potential benefits for law school admissions and scholarships to improve your chances of achieving your desired score.

Odyssey Test Prep offers personalized LSAT preparation and law school admissions consulting to assist you throughout the application process. With private tutoring, strategic advice on personal statements, and insights on selecting law schools, Odyssey provides the support you need. A higher LSAT score and a strong application can enhance your chances of admission and securing scholarships.