Retaking LSAT harm Your law school chances

You’ve likely grappled with the ever-present question: how many times can I take the LSAT? Brace yourselves, because the rules of engagement are changing. The Law School Admission Council (LSAC), the administrator of the LSAT, is reintroducing limits on how many times you can take the test, both per year and over your lifetime.

LSAC estimates this policy tweak will impact a minuscule fraction of test-takers—less than 1%. So, if you’re diligently prepping and strategically targeting your attempts, chances are this won’t be a game-changer for you.

That said, it’s crucial to stay informed, and in this blog post, with valuable insights from Yocket, we will discuss the new regulations and provide the latest updates to ensure your LSAT journey remains laser-focused and successful.

How Many Times Can You Take the LSAT?

At LSAC, they are dedicated to ensuring equal opportunity and upholding the LSAT’s high standards. To achieve this, they are implementing a new test-taking limits policy starting with the August 2023 administration. This change affects a very small portion of test-takers—less than 1%—but plays a crucial role in maintaining the fairness and integrity of the LSAT.

So, what does this mean for you? Starting in August 2023, you’ll be able to take the LSAT:

• Five times within the current reportable score period. This window covers scores from June 2018 onward, meaning you have flexibility within this timeframe.
• Seven times total over your lifetime. This ensures everyone has ample opportunity to achieve their best LSAT score while safeguarding the test’s long-term value.

Impact of Taking the LSAT Multiple Times on Law School Admissions

The number of times you should take the LSAT is a personal decision that depends on various factors. There’s no one-size-fits-all answer, and aiming for multiple attempts shouldn’t discourage you.

• Consider your target score for the schools you’re interested in. Research the average LSAT scores of admitted students at your target programs to get a sense of what’s competitive. If you’re significantly below your target score on your first attempt, retaking the LSAT exam might be beneficial.

• Evaluate your study habits and test-taking strategies. Do you believe you can significantly improve your score with dedicated effort? If so, retaking might be worthwhile.

Taking the LSAT multiple times isn’t necessarily a negative mark on your application. Law schools understand that the test can be challenging, and they often look at an applicant’s overall score improvement and dedication to improvement. Focus on demonstrating consistent progress and a commitment to learning from each attempt.

Read Also: When to Take the LSAT in 2024

Exemption to the Test-Taking Limit Policy

Think the test-taking limit shouldn’t apply to you? You might be eligible for an exemption, but before you hit “send” on that email, let’s make sure your case shines.

• The heart of your appeal is a compelling explanation of the “significant and extenuating” circumstances that warrant an extra chance. Be specific and detailed. Did a medical issue disrupt your previous attempts? Did unexpected changes throw off your study schedule? Paint a clear picture of the challenges that hindered your performance.

• Don’t just tell your story; back it up. Attach relevant documents like medical records, employment verification, or anything that strengthens your case. The more evidence you provide, the more likely it is to resonate with the appeals panel.

• It might sound obvious, but include all the essential details in your email:

1. Your name and LSAC account number
2. Desired test date. (Let them know which upcoming exam you’d like to take.)

Note: 

1. Please be aware that even if your appeal is granted, it’s only valid for the next test you register for (not necessarily the specific date mentioned in your appeal).
2. Even if your appeal is granted for one specific instance (e.g., taking the test a sixth time in five years), the overall lifetime limit of seven attempts still applies. 
3. Submit your appeal five business days before the registration deadline for your desired LSAT test date. 
4. Appeals are reviewed carefully, and the LSAC’s decision is final within five business days of submission. No further appeals are allowed.
5. If your appeal is successful, you must register for the test by phone with an LSAC representative.

Read Also: How Hard is the LSAT & Strategies to Simplify It

From the Desk of Yocket

It’s crucial to understand your starting point. A thorough diagnostic assessment can reveal your strengths and weaknesses, allowing you to tailor your preparation accordingly. This initial step lays the groundwork for efficient learning and targeted improvement. Simply taking the test again without addressing underlying gaps won’t yield significant results.

Next, consider the impact of improvement. A substantial score increase, say 10 points or more, can significantly shift your trajectory. It demonstrates dedication, learning agility, and the potential for further academic success in law school. However, marginal gains might not justify the investment of time and resources.

While the official LSAC policy sets a lifetime cap of seven attempts and five within a reporting period, the true optimal strategy hinges on a personalized approach that prioritizes your growth and maximizes your potential.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. How many times can I take the LSAT within a certain period?

Within the current reportable score period (since June 2018), you can take the LSAT a maximum of five times.

2. What if I need to take the LSAT more than seven times or five times within the reportable period?

You can appeal to LSAC for an exemption to the test-taking limits. However, these exemptions are rarely granted. LSAC estimates that this policy will only affect a small percentage of test-takers (less than 1%).

3. What is the “current reportable score period”?

The LSAC reports your LSAT scores for a period of five years. So, the current reportable score period includes all LSAT scores from June 2018 to the present.