Need some advice. Forum

[MrSam]

Hey everyone,

First off, here's a short timeline that pertains to my "LSAT journey":

Started studying via TestMasters (July 2015) --> Registered for the October test (August 2015) --> Changed my test day to December 2015 (September 2015) --> About 2 weeks away, and I am realizing that there is no way I am going to reach my target score (165+).

With that, it's too late to change my test day. My options now are to withdraw from the December test, or just take it and probably cancel my score if I don't feel great about my performance.
I'll likely go with the latter, that way I don't feel like I wasted $200+ on the test and at least I'll walk away with the "experience" of taking the full, 6-section test.

I am aiming for: UCLA, Northwestern, USC, UCI, and Iowa law (in order from most desired to least...although, I certainly wouldn't lose any sleep over only getting into Iowa).
My current stats: GPA - 3.94/3.95, LSAT average: 155 +3/-2 (if you factor in guessing on the questions that I didn't get to).
Target score: At least 165

Anyhow, here is what I need help with:

1) If I do end up canceling my score, and decide to retake in June (2016), would I be applying for the Fall 2017 semester (early decision)? I don't mind taking an additional year off, on top of the one I am already taking off. I was planning on doing volunteer work in another nation. If I take the extra year off and take the June 2016 exam, i'll have time to volunteer.

2) I do feel that 6 months is enough to make the jump from 155 to 165+. However, the LSAT just isn't my cup of tea. Give me any knowledge-based test, and I'll do well...standardized tests, not so much. Do you guys/gals think that 6 months is sufficient to make the jump?
If it matters, my first diagnostic score was an embarrassingly low 137. This was back in July 2015.

3) I received all of my LORs. However, two of my instructors mentioned that they wrote that I would be vying for a seat for the Fall 2016 semester. If I do end up applying in June, should I have them edit the LOR? Or, would schools just ignore the date? I can't imagine them being too happy to see an incorrect date in the LOR.

Thanks in advance!

[cbbinnyc]

1) Yes

2) 6 months is certainly enough if you use the time wisely. Yes, the LSAT is a standardized test, but it tests a pretty specific skill set that can be learned. Not everybody can get a 170+, but 165 is a very attainable goal.

3) Yes. Not sure why they would mention the year in their letters, but yes the letters should be up to date.

[maracuya]

You have your GPA for a reason, so you can definitely work your way up to a 165+ LSAT score. I highly highly recommend buying the LSAT Trainer by Mike Kim and/or signing up for a 7sage online course, depending on what your specific needs and study habits are. I moved from low 160s to the 170s with those resources and a LOT of hard work. I think there's an argument to be made for actually sitting for a real examination, especially if it's a sunk cost at this point, but you will be using up one of your three takes. If you're certain you will be retaking, I wouldn't do it. Be ready for June, and then retake in October if need-be. Having October as your third take could be really stressful.

As for your LORs, be honest with your profs about your changing plans and I'm sure they'll resubmit them without a specific mention of the year you're entering law school.

Also, I would caution you against most early decision programs. With a GPA like that and a high LSAT score which you 100% can earn by June, schools will be fighting for you. Don't commit to only one prematurely. Good luck!

[MrSam]

You have your GPA for a reason, so you can definitely work your way up to a 165+ LSAT score. I highly highly recommend buying the LSAT Trainer by Mike Kim and/or signing up for a 7sage online course, depending on what your specific needs and study habits are. I moved from low 160s to the 170s with those resources and a LOT of hard work. I think there's an argument to be made for actually sitting for a real examination, especially if it's a sunk cost at this point, but you will be using up one of your three takes. If you're certain you will be retaking, I wouldn't do it. Be ready for June, and then retake in October if need-be. Having October as your third take could be really stressful.

As for your LORs, be honest with your profs about your changing plans and I'm sure they'll resubmit them without a specific mention of the year you're entering law school.

Also, I would caution you against most early decision programs. With a GPA like that and a high LSAT score which you 100% can earn by June, schools will be fighting for you. Don't commit to only one prematurely. Good luck!

Thanks, maracuya! Your post just gave a little boost in motivation. It does make sense to cancel and take in June, that way I have 2 retakes at the ready. I'm just annoyed that I've spent so much money, only to cancel...I basically gave LSAC $200+ for no reason (my fault, I know).
Sorry about the confusion, I didn't mean "early decision" in the way that you mentioned. If I recall correctly, some schools give priority to those who submit their applications early on -since they're not vying for the final remaining seats. That's what I meant by early admissions...I probably should have said "early application." Anyhow, thanks a ton! I don't like the idea of waiting another 7 months to apply, plus waiting exactly 1 year to start L1, but I'm not willing to throw away my GPA and settle for less.

1) Yes

2) 6 months is certainly enough if you use the time wisely. Yes, the LSAT is a standardized test, but it tests a pretty specific skill set that can be learned. Not everybody can get a 170+, but 165 is a very attainable goal.

3) Yes. Not sure why they would mention the year in their letters, but yes the letters should be up to date.

Thanks for the advice. I'll get in touch with my instructors and ask that they leave out the date.