Taking LSAT 4 times Forum

[musyoobo]

Really need some advice. I took the LSAT 3 times already and all 3 were extremely disappointing. I usually score 161~166 on the prep tests, but my test scores came out as 153 154 155. I honestly don't know what the problem is because I took about 63 prep tests and never scored below 160. I am planning to retake the LSAT for the 4th time after taking a couple months to reevaluate what I did wrong. I was wondering if there is a disadvantage during application if I were to score around 164(my average score from prep tests) or higher? I read somewhere that if there is a huge discrepancy among scores after the 3rd test, admission might think that the test taker just got lucky. Would an addendum help?

[antelope]

It seems like test anxiety might be affecting you. You should try to work on this first before giving it another shot. If your score in practice's consistent in the mid 160s, you should retake, but make sure you review what you're struggling with. Review answers if you took a disclosed test, maybe there's a section you need to focus on/types of questions

Schools only care about your highest score. However, when you reach 4+ takes, I think a brief addendum mentioning how you focused on preparing/wanted to reach your best score would be enough, the score shows your progress and, if substantial, the better. A higher score won't affect you negatively

But do take a hard look on factors that could be affecting your focus and sections/type of questions too. It won't be helpful to score the same, that just might show you are just taking the test because you can, and not show proper preparation to improve.

Best of luck, op, you got this!

[exdeanrod]

I wouldn't worry about admissions being concerned with a fourth take. I have a friend who got into a t13 with a generous scholarship, and he took it four times. Schools really only care about your highest score because that is where their incentive lies (i.e. if they had to report all of your scores, they would care, but they only have to record your highest take when calculating your classes' LSAT percentile)

[lsatmadness]

My first diagnostic was in the 140s. I took the LSAT 5 times, only breaking 170 on the last attempt. Don't give up if that's what you want.

REDACTED

Good luck!