Multiple LSAT scores, 13 point discrepancy... Thoughts? Forum

[fragged]

I just wanted to get everyone's input on what I should do regarding schools requesting addendum explaining the large discrepancy in my scores:

December 2009 - Cancelled
February 2010 - 151
June 2010 - 164

- I cancelled December 2009 because I felt I did not hit my potential, and I know it was due to test anxiety
- I took it in February 2010 and completely bombed AGAIN due to test anxiety
- I finally got angry and figured out how to overcome my test anxiety, took it in June 2010 and got a 164.

Since they are essentially asking me to come up with an excuse why I did poorly on the previous exam, is there any reason I should/shouldn't be honest? Is it better to tell them the truth, or should I just tell them I was sick?

I really don't like to BS, but I also don't want the admissions committees to doubt that my 164 represents my true potential.

Any thoughts?

Thanks in advance.

[TTTGrad]

Take it a third time. If your score is closer or better than 164, the 151 will seem like a fluke. If you don't take it a third time, the admissions committee will question whether the 164 was a fluke.

[capitalacq]

Take it a third time. If your score is closer or better than 164, the 151 will seem like a fluke. If you don't take it a third time, the admissions committee will question whether the 164 was a fluke.

this has to be a flame.. ignore it


fragged, just be honest. say that while you prepared for the test, you underestimated the effects of anxiety. You scored way below your potential and began to practice under testing conditions to eliminate that anxiety. you retook it in june and got a score that more accurately reflects your potential

[fragged]

Thanks capitalacq - I would question whether someone can go from a 151 to a 164 based off of a fluke.

[Lisa7n99]

I say, if the school looks at all scores, submit an addendum. I took it 3 times, did miserably the first two, latest score was 13 points higher. I'm headed to a very good school in the fall, partly I believe because I wrote an effective explanation. I'd be happy to share the addendum if you wanted to see it.

oh crap, didn't read close enough that the school in question requires one.....either way, be honest. illustrate why the second administration was different than the first. did you prepare differently? were you working a lot? did you have family obligations? you can do that without sounding whiny.

[goawaybee]

I really don't like to BS.

Their job is to stare at apps.

151--->164 results in individual took it seriously and worked to improve score. Hard working/determined. something like 20+ points better raw score. kind of tough for that to be a fluke. I wouldn't BS, You were sick, mental instability or physical illness, migraine, didn't take meds. give them what they want. Whip something up and feed em. Good work on the increase. I am sure you feel good about that.

[bankruptedcasino]

I agree with everyone here. Emphasize the fact that you worked hard and diligently to prepare for your third test and state confidently that you believe a 164 is indicative of your abilities to succeed in law school.

Adcomms will discard a lower LSAT score when a.) you're 7+ points higher than your previous admission and b.) you write an effective addendum.

[fragged]

Good work on the increase. I am sure you feel good about that.

After scoring 163-167 on all my practice tests, then blowing 2 real tests in a row, a 164 on the 3rd and final time I am allowed to take it feels pretty good.