Is is too late to apply in late January/early February 2020?

[csreyesdorna]

Hello,

I just took the October 2019 LSAT, but I have already registered for the January 2020 exam -- I know that if I worked harder on my timing, and on the Logic Games portion, then I could get a better score. My plan is to have all application materials ready before I take the January LSAT (or before I get the score), so that I can send all applications as soon as the score is released. However, I worry this might be too late in the admissions cycle? Please advise?

[Dave Killoran]

Hello,

I just took the October 2019 LSAT, but I have already registered for the January 2020 exam -- I know that if I worked harder on my timing, and on the Logic Games portion, then I could get a better score. My plan is to have all application materials ready before I take the January LSAT (or before I get the score), so that I can send all applications as soon as the score is released. However, I worry this might be too late in the admissions cycle? Please advise?

Hi C,

Thanks for the question! We talk a lot about this very point, and there is widespread agreement that it is better to apply later with a higher LSAT score, as opposed to earlier with a lower LSAT score. The reason is that LSAT scores are black and white metrics that are reported to the ABA (and USNews) whereas application dates are not. An early applciation date is simply a preference on the school's part, but it doesn't play a role in numbers or rankings,. Hence, the higher LSAT score takes precedence every time

If it helps, I've heard that from many deans and admissions consultants, aside from myself and our PowerScore consultants.

Thanks!

[csreyesdorna]

Thanks so much, Dave. Follow up comment/question -> I took the PowerScore in person course back in July here in DC, but got so busy with work, etc that wasn't able to take it until now. I still have my course books and am going to buy some of your digital LSAT testing materials. Based on yesterday, I have to improve on my timing and on the Logic Games... do you think I have enough time to study for the January exam? I have a scheduled study plan of 18-20 hours per week.

[csreyesdorna]

Hello,

I just took the October 2019 LSAT, but I have already registered for the January 2020 exam -- I know that if I worked harder on my timing, and on the Logic Games portion, then I could get a better score. My plan is to have all application materials ready before I take the January LSAT (or before I get the score), so that I can send all applications as soon as the score is released. However, I worry this might be too late in the admissions cycle? Please advise?

Hi C,

Thanks for the question! We talk a lot about this very point, and there is widespread agreement that it is better to apply later with a higher LSAT score, as opposed to earlier with a lower LSAT score. The reason is that LSAT scores are black and white metrics that are reported to the ABA (and USNews) whereas application dates are not. An early applciation date is simply a preference on the school's part, but it doesn't play a role in numbers or rankings,. Hence, the higher LSAT score takes precedence every time

If it helps, I've heard that from many deans and admissions consultants, aside from myself and our PowerScore consultants.

Thanks!

Thanks so much, Dave. Follow up comment/question -> I took the PowerScore in person course back in July here in DC, but got so busy with work, etc that wasn't able to take it until now. I still have my course books and am going to buy some of your digital LSAT testing materials. Based on yesterday, I have to improve on my timing and on the Logic Games... do you think I have enough time to study for the January exam? I have a scheduled study plan of 18-20 hours per week.

[Dave Killoran]

Thanks so much, Dave. Follow up comment/question -> I took the PowerScore in person course back in July here in DC, but got so busy with work, etc that wasn't able to take it until now. I still have my course books and am going to buy some of your digital LSAT testing materials. Based on yesterday, I have to improve on my timing and on the Logic Games... do you think I have enough time to study for the January exam? I have a scheduled study plan of 18-20 hours per week.

Yes, definitely! You've got about 2.5 months, which is plenty of time with your planned weekly schedule. Just keep studying steadily and you will be ok!

[Isaiah4110]

Hi Dave,

I have the same question.

HLS’ deadline is 2/3/20 and Stanford is 2/1/2020. Given that the January LSAT is scheduled for 1/13 and that it usually takes three weeks for the score release, it would mean that January test takers will sure to miss the Stanford deadline and be on the cusp for HLS. Is it still possible to apply if you have the rest of your applications completed? Also, HLS says apply by February 3, but it also says applications will close on February 28th. Do you happen to know the difference?

Any input will be great appreciated! Thank you!

[Dave Killoran]

Hi Dave,

I have the same question.

HLS’ deadline is 2/3/20 and Stanford is 2/1/2020. Given that the January LSAT is scheduled for 1/13 and that it usually takes three weeks for the score release, it would mean that January test takers will sure to miss the Stanford deadline and be on the cusp for HLS. Is it still possible to apply if you have the rest of your applications completed? Also, HLS says apply by February 3, but it also says applications will close on February 28th. Do you happen to know the difference?

Any input will be great appreciated! Thank you!

The tradition here is that they will accept those January scores. This used to happen with the February LSAT, and they still accepted it back then

It's also wholly fluid—schools tend to lengthen the application window as it suits them and if they want more applicants. It's not nearly as rigid as they make it seem. That said, "apply by" means start your app; "closes" typically means that you need all your info in to them, including LSAT scores.

As always, though, if something is unclear, then call the school! they are the ones who know the most about their individual policies!

Thanks!

[Isaiah4110]

Thank you!