Maximizing Your Law School Application Strategy: Apply Early or Retake the LSAT?

If you've been following my blog, you already know the importance of strategic planning in the law school application process. One crucial decision you'll face is whether to apply early or retake the LSAT to improve your score. This decision can significantly impact your chances of success, scholarships, and school choice. In this article, we'll explore the factors to consider when making this crucial decision.

Factors to Consider

1. Your Timeline for Retaking

Timing plays a pivotal role in retaking the LSAT. It's essential to plan ahead. For instance, if you took the LSAT in June, consider retaking it in August or October. These dates allow you to submit your applications in November, still early in the cycle. Keep in mind that LSAC's Score Preview option now lets you see your score before deciding to keep it or cancel.

However, if your first LSAT attempt is in October, it's wise to register for the November test as a backup. This way, you can retake it if needed. Assess your study plan, consider hiring a tutor, and address any issues that affected your initial test performance.

2. Schools Differ on Timing

Not all law schools prioritize early applications. Applying early is more critical for T14 schools than lower-ranked ones. For example, Yale Law School follows a unique file reading process, so there's no advantage to applying early. Furthermore, some schools won't hold your application for future LSAT scores, potentially leading to premature denials.

It's crucial to contact each school you're applying to and understand their LSAT score policy. This will help you determine the best strategy for your application.

3. Merit Scholarships

Many law schools offer both need-based and merit-based aid. While applying early can increase your chances of receiving merit aid, improving your LSAT score can have an even more significant impact. Even a slight score increase can result in thousands of dollars in scholarships.

To make an informed decision, analyze historical scholarship data and inquire about each school's merit aid criteria. Scholarships may be based on factors other than LSAT scores, such as essays, recommendation letters, or community service experience.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, there is no one-size-fits-all rule when deciding between applying early with your current LSAT score or retaking the LSAT. It depends on your academic profile, the schools you're applying to, and their financial aid policies. To tailor your strategy, consider seeking expert guidance or consulting with a professional.

If you'd like to discuss your unique circumstances further, we’re here to help! Send us an email at hello@smontgomeryconsulting.com or look into our one-on-one consulting packages. I look forward to hearing from you!