4.0/163 advice Forum

[amacdon123]

Hey all,

So I just got my results from the June 2015 LSAT (my first), and I got a 163. I had been averaging 165 on PTs so I am disappointed, but I don't think I should retake. I studied an enormous amount for this exam, didn't feel "off" at all on test day, and I honestly just don't think I can do better.

Obviously my GPA is good (4.0), so I am wondering what types of schools I'll have a shot at. Other facts about me: I have completed three political internships, have been published, have won many academic prizes at my school, and (most importantly) have a glowing letter of recommendation from a member of Congress.

I feel as though it's just my LSAT score holding me back, which is incredibly frustrating when I've worked so hard to get that high. Any thoughts would be greatly appreciated.

[Hutz_and_Goodman]

You've got to retake, you owe it to yourself.

[A. Nony Mouse]

What is "an enormous amount"?

Does the member of Congress comment on your actual academic ability?

[Wild Card]

Enjoy Penn at sticker.

[amacdon123]

Hey thanks for the reply! I studied for a full year leading up to the test, studied every day, took about ten practice tests in the weeks leading up to the test. I bought a few books and found that Powerscore specifically helped me a lot. I definitely hit a plateau studying, scoring between 163-167. Best I ever got was a 169 on a PT.

I did a congressional internship, so the letter focuses on my work ethic, research skills, problem solving skills, etc. I wouldn't say it highlights my academic prowess since I wasn't really doing any classwork.

[BigZuck]

Hey thanks for the reply! I studied for a full year leading up to the test, studied every day, took about ten practice tests in the weeks leading up to the test. I bought a few books and found that Powerscore specifically helped me a lot. I definitely hit a plateau studying, scoring between 163-167. Best I ever got was a 169 on a PT.

I did a congressional internship, so the letter focuses on my work ethic, research skills, problem solving skills, etc. I wouldn't say it highlights my academic prowess since I wasn't really doing any classwork.

I'd focus on letters from professors that can speak to your academic performance.

I'd also hit up the lsat prep sub forum here, you really do need to retake the lsat (twice, if need be). Check out Noodley's guide for retakers.

[Tiago Splitter]

You once got a PT of 169, scored between 163-167 on PTs leading up to the test, and you're gonna shut it down after one take with a 163? Terrible decision. There is no penalty for retaking, so just go back in October knowing you've got a free roll.

[amacdon123]

Anyone face a similar issue with plateauing? I'm just not sure it's worth months of extra studying (not to mention the cost of the test) to score a 165 that averages to a 164.

[Tiago Splitter]

Anyone face a similar issue with plateauing? I'm just not sure it's worth months of extra studying (not to mention the cost of the test) to score a 165 that averages to a 164.

For God's sake no school averages. Any extra points are huge, even if due to nothing but blind luck. If you get up to 167 you have a shot for something close to full tuition at a couple T-14 schools. Instead you're gonna pay 300k to go to Penn. Come on now.

[doublehoohopeful]

Anyone face a similar issue with plateauing? I'm just not sure it's worth months of extra studying (not to mention the cost of the test) to score a 165 that averages to a 164.

Well, your alternative is to get slapped with $300k in loans.

Many people (including myself) have pushed through the mid 160s to a 170+ score, it is doable. Drilling is your friend.

[Mack.Hambleton]

A two point drop is normal. What you need to do is get your PT averages up to 170+ before you retake

Head to the LSAT prep forum for that. Figure out your weaknesses and work from there

[amacdon123]

Ok you all have a point about retaking to avoid sticker price. I guess I'm just dreading the idea of dragging this out longer. What books, if any, helped those of you who re-took and did better?

[PoopNpants]

A two point drop is normal. What you need to do is get your PT averages up to 170+ before you retake

Head to the LSAT prep forum for that. Figure out your weaknesses and work from there

This.

[SplitMyPants]

Anyone face a similar issue with plateauing? I'm just not sure it's worth months of extra studying (not to mention the cost of the test) to score a 165 that averages to a 164.

Ten PTs is an awfully small sample size to deduce that you have "plateaued." PT, then drill your weak sections, and then PT some more until you've exhausted all the PTs 38 and beyond under timed conditions, using 37 and earlier for dummy sections and drilling.

[landshoes]

Honestly, with your softs I'd consider going to try to get some work experience instead of going to law school. Or consider another graduate school. If you want to go into academia, maybe a PhD.

In 4 years, you could be graduating law school with a fuckton of debt, or you could have 4 years of great experience doing something you're obviously passionate about (government).

If at that point you feel like you need the JD you can think about it. But until then--why interrupt a promising career and take on 6 figure debt? Serious question. Why do that instead of working?

[zhenders]

Here to sing the retake song.

/song

[Indifference]

Went 163, 164, 177, over the course of a year and three takes.

Did it suck to keep getting those scores, and having to study over and over? Yeah.

Was it worth it? Yeah.

Study smarter, not harder. PTs alone won't help you break 170. That's what drilling is for. Figure out exactly where you drop the ball, and focus in on strengthening that section while keeping up with the others.

Retake. Profit.