3.4, 170, Any chances at T14? Forum

[thisiswater]

As it says, my LSAC GPA is a 3.41, and my LSAT is 166/170. Mediocre softs, some work experience, okay LoRs, and I can probably crank out a decent essay or two.
Current plan is to apply to:
Texas (I'm a texas resident)
SMU
Tulane
Vandy

I'm debating Duke, Georgetown, UVA, Cornell, basically the 8-14 of the T14. And probably I need to fill in a few more true matches for my numbers.

I am hoping to get most of the application stuff done before the end of July. I leave on the July 29th and won't be back in the states until the end of September so I really want to be ready to apply as soon as I get back. That's still going to get me much of the benefit of applying early right?

Okay, I guess I'm looking for thoughts on my chances of getting in/$$$$ at these schools, plus other good choices for places to apply.

[beachbum]

Apply MVP through WUSTL, and throw in a couple safeties that match up with your regional preferences. FWIW, your best bet into the T14 is with an ED, which would make all of MVPDNG fair game. Otherwise, prepare to ride a lot of WLs.

On your short list, you'll probably get into Vandy (do the interview), and you have a decent shot at Texas. The other two are safeties.

<--- 170/3.4x, accepted to Duke (ED), Vandy, W&M. Waitlisted at UVA, ND, Illinois, Minn.

[TheFactor]

Start by removing SMU and Tulane from consideration.

Then do this.

Apply MVP through WUSTL, and throw in a couple safeties that match up with your regional preferences. FWIW, your best bet into the T14 is with an ED, which would make all of MVPDNG fair game. Otherwise, prepare to ride a lot of WLs.

On your short list, you'll probably get into Vandy (do the interview), and you have a decent shot at Texas. The other two are safeties

Getting your apps in by September will be plenty early enough by the way.

[Anomaly]

luck.

[thisiswater]

Thanks everyone.

I can do add more T14 schools for sure. I don't know why I had it in my head that I had no chance at Michigan and Penn but UVA was a possibility. So, I'l add those plus the others, but I'm not sure I'm willing to do an ED. The debt level scares me, especially because I am not sure I want BigLaw. I guess research into LARP is in my future.

Start by removing SMU and Tulane from consideration.

I'm from the Dallas area, and I went to TUlane for 2 years of my UG before I transferred due to a family thing. I like both cities which is why I was thinking of those for safeties. Not a good idea though in your opinion?


ALSO, another question. I could take the October LSAT. I've never actually studied for it in the past, so probably I could grab a few more points, maybe up to a 174 or so. Would this make a real difference with my GPA, or would it be better to just let it go and see what I get?

[descartesb4thehorse]

Thanks everyone.

I can do add more T14 schools for sure. I don't know why I had it in my head that I had no chance at Michigan and Penn but UVA was a possibility. So, I'l add those plus , the others, but I'm not sure I'm willing to do an ED.The Debt level scares me, especially because I am not sure I want BigLaw. I guess research into LARP is in my future.

Start by removing SMU and Tulane from consideration.

I'm from the Dallas area, and I went to TUlane for 2 years of my UG before I transferred due to a family thing. I like both cities which is why I was thinking of those for safeties. Not a good idea though in your opinion?


ALSO, another question. I could take the October LSAT. I've never actually studied for it in the past, so probably I could grab a few more points, maybe up to a 174 or so. Would this make a real difference with my GPA, or would it be better to just let it go and see what I get?

It'll definitely make a difference. If you don't want to wonder "what if" and/or retake/reapply next year, I suggest studying (if you'll have the time with your lengthy trip). Each point over 170 up to and including 174 will alter your cycle.

ETA: Then again, make sure you're going to improve. 166/170/168(or below) could hurt you more than 171 can help. 172 should be your aim, and I'd suggest a cancel if you walk out thinking you're at 170 or below.

[thisiswater]

It'll definitely make a difference. If you don't want to wonder "what if" and/or retake/reapply next year, I suggest studying (if you'll have the time with your lengthy trip). Each point over 170 up to and including 174 will alter your cycle.

ETA: Then again, make sure you're going to improve. 166/170/168(or below) could hurt you more than 171 can help. 172 should be your aim, and I'd suggest a cancel if you walk out thinking you're at 170 or below.

I'm going to be living in one place for most of the second month of the trip so I think I could study. Playing around with LawSchoolPredictor showed me how much even a few points might change up my cycle, so I think a retake may be my new plan.

[TheFactor]

Start by removing SMU and Tulane from consideration.

I'm from the Dallas area, and I went to TUlane for 2 years of my UG before I transferred due to a family thing. I like both cities which is why I was thinking of those for safeties. Not a good idea though in your opinion?

Your numbers are too good for Tulane and SMU. Anything in T14 + Vandy/UT will be >/= to Tulane for New Orleans, and given your ties, you'll have no problem getting back to Dallas from a T14. I would only consider SMU if I got a full ride (tuition + expenses) and was dead-set on working in Dallas.