Hi Michael!
Thanks for the post! A few thoughts here:
michaelamazz wrote: ↑Thu Dec 02, 2021 1:22 pmHi, I just received my November test results and am not sure if I should retest in January. I got a 163 but have scored in the 165-169, scoring a 169 the week before my Nov. test. So I know I can do better than a 163.
If you're confident you can get your score up in January, then go for it! We consistently advise that applying with a higher score is almost always preferable to applying earlier with a lower score.
I want to retake it in January and submit applications to schools in the meantime, but do not want to hold off on having them reviewed until early February when the score is released.
Yes, you can do this! You can submit your application now with your November score and notify schools that you registered for a retake in Jan. It depends on the school whether they render a decision with your initial score or hold your application until the new score is received. Thus, also request the action you prefer: either ask schools to review immediately with the score on record or hold until your new LSAT score arrives.
As to how you can let schools know you’re retaking and requesting they hold off until new scores are in–there are a number of possibilities. Some schools have an area on the application form to note that information. Or, they may give you specific instructions on how to do it. For others, you need to email them to alert them of the retake. In any case, make sure they are notified in some fashion!
Is February too late for comfort? I was aiming to apply to schools with a median 164-166 LSAT, and receiving scholarship money is important to me.
February is not too late to apply. But even if you apply now and have schools review/accept you with your first score, you’ll want them to review your file again if you improve your score in case you qualify for any additional financial aid.
I hope this helps! Thanks!
