Quick question about raising GPA

[akak179]

Hey guys,

Though I have been lurking for a while, this is my first post here at TLS.

I was wondering what anyones opinion would be on taking summer courses to try and boost my LSAC GPA. As of now I have a 2.90 (3.27 according to my undergrad). I have done the math, and taking 4 courses, assuming they are all A's, would boost me up above the 3.0 mark. Is it worth putting in this cash and effort? Also, I am taking the LSAT for the first time in June(and dont want to speculate as to what I may score) assuming I do well, is it worth it for me to wait until after my first semester grades next semester if they could boost me up to a 3.1? Or is more likely that the advantage I would get by applying extremely early would be more beneficial?

Thanks alot everyone, any commentary is appreciated!

[cinefile 17]

Focus on getting as high of a LSAT score as possible. A difference in five or so points on the LSAT would make more of a difference than even a .3 increase in your GPA. If you haven't gotten your practice average as high as it will possibly go (or near close to it), hold off on the LSAT, spend your summer focusing on that, and rock it in October.

Do you have good reason to believe you can get As in your four classes? The worst thing would be to spend all that time/money and only crank out a 3.5 (not raising your GPA much in the process). I think banking on the fact that you'll pull a 4.0 semester is kind of risky if you've never done so before or have not done so often [speaking from experience].

To answer your last question, apply as early as possible (assuming you've achieved the best LSAT score you're capable of). Then send in your new transcript after first semester (many schools that you are borderline-admit for will not have made a decision by then). Applying that late wont help your cycle, even with a slightly higher GPA.

[pu_golf88]

I took 22 credit hours last summer to boost my GPA, my first 4.0 in college. Take it for what it's worth.

[manbearwig]

I think that as important as LSAT scores are compared to GPA, it's a bit different if you're talking about raising your GPA above a 3.0.

Edit: I can't believe I used the wrong "your." And now it has been quoted and my error will live on forever. Oh well.

[09042014]

I think that as important as LSAT scores are compared to GPA, it's a bit different if you're talking about raising you're GPA above a 3.0.

Especially you are anticipating getting a 170+.

Do it.