Overview of LSAT Scoring

Students who complete the LSAT receive a total score based on the multiple-choice sections of the exam, excluding the experimental section. This total score is given on a scale of 120 to 180 in one-point increments, and all test questions have the same value. Total scores are scaled from raw scores to ensure fairness by accounting for minor differences in the difficulty level of the individual tests. The LSAT Argumentative Writing task is not scored, but copies of the essay are sent to law schools designated by the test taker along with their score reports. If the Writing task has not been completed, LSAT scores will not be sent to designated law programs. Visit the following pages for an introduction to LSAT scoring and more specific information on several LSAT scoring topics:

• LSAT Scoring System

  The LSAT scoring system features scaled scores, percentile rankings, and score bands. Visit this page for a comprehensive discussion of these score types, all of which appear on official LSAT score reports. Also included on this page are a rough classification scheme for LSAT score ranges, and an overview of the LSAT scoring procedure, which generally takes between three and four weeks.

• LSAT Score Confidentiality

  LSAC adheres to a relatively strict policy on score confidentiality. Visit this page to learn more about LSAC policies on personally identifiable student information, including LSAT scores, and how LSAC uses aggregate (non-personally identifiable) data. We also discuss related topics, including the state of relevant legislation, privacy and the Candidate Referral Service (CRS), and LSAC website privacy.

• Retaking the LSAT

  Visit this page for an overview of official LSAC retake policies, a discussion of the reasons for those policies, and a summary of published LSAT data on exam retakes. We then consider how retakes factor into score reporting and the law school admissions process, and conclude with advice on how to decide whether or not to retake the LSAT. 

• Limits on Retakes

  This page includes a discussion of several issues relevant to limits on LSAT retakes. Learn about limits on LSAT registration, fees for retaking the exam, the LSAT score validity period, and testing exclusions. This can help you choose if, and how many times, you should retake the LSAT by considering costs, average score gains, and other practical issues. Students with disabilities can find information on LSAT retakes and requests for accommodations.

• Canceling Scores

  LSAT scores may be either voluntarily canceled by the student or involuntarily canceled by LSAC. Visit this page to learn about the procedure for student score cancellation, the reasons for LSAC score cancellation, refund policies, how score cancellation affects score reporting, and all the issues to consider when deciding whether or not to cancel your LSAT scores.