LSAT Addendum for Score Increase

[Zarie Blackburn]

We recently received the following question from a student. An LSAT Expert will respond below. Thanks!

I have a question about my LSAT score. I have some bad previous scores on the record, which is January 2020 146—>May 2020 150—>October 2020 154—> November 2020 172. I have a huge increase from October to November which makes me worried that will law school admissions will think my November score is suspicious? My October test has tech issues and was interrupted by Proctor U during the exam but I didn’t cancel because at least it will better than 150, which is my previous score. Usually my PT range is around 165. In November, I think I did very well and questions I got are all standard. Is it enough just add an Addendum to explain this situation? Or do I need to retake in January to prove that my score is not just an accident, but I think it might be late to apply and lost scholarship opportunities. I will be very appreciated if you reply! Thank you so much !

[KelseyWoods]

Hi!

A 26 point increase from your first LSAT to your last is a pretty significant (and awesome!) increase that will merit a brief, explanatory addendum. But you don't need to take the test again to prove the 172 is legitimate. The LSAT has a lot of security protocols in place and LSAC would have flagged your test if they thought it was suspicious. Law schools are going to want to take your higher score. So just give them an explanation to make it easier for them. The key is to keep this addendum brief and don't make it a list of complaints/excuses as to why your other scores were lower. Use this as an opportunity to subtly showcase your persistence in the face of obstacles, dedication to pursuing law school, and ability to learn and grow (but don't get too flowery--keep it succinct and to the point). Clearly explain why your earlier scores were not reflective of your ability, why you thought you could do better on another test, and how you prepared. Remember that you are explaining a positive (a great LSAT score!) so be careful not to make it into something that sounds negative (e.g., focusing too much on how unprepared you were the first time, overly complaining about tech issues with the Flex, etc.).

A few resources that you may find helpful:
https://blog.powerscore.com/lsat/whats- ... h-addenda/
https://forum.powerscore.com/lsat/viewtopic.php?t=8315

Hope this helps! Good luck!

Best,
Kelsey