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If you’re preparing for the LSAT, you may be asking yourself: Can you retake the LSAT, and if so, how many times does it actually make sense to do it? For many test takers, understanding LSAT retake limits and how long LSAT scores remain valid is a key part of planning for law school.
This guide breaks down what happens when you take the LSAT more than once, how multiple LSAT scores are viewed in the law school admissions process, and what to keep in mind if you’re aiming to improve your score on a future test date.
Read: LSAT Prep & Study Guide: Best Practices & Free Resources
What is LSAC's Official Retake Policy?
The Law School Admission Council (LSAC) sets clear limits on how many times you can take the LSAT to keep the testing process fair and consistent. According to LSAC’s official Limits on Repeating the Test policy:
- Reportable Score Period Limit- You can take the LSAT up to five times within the current reportable score period (about the past five testing years).
- Lifetime Limit- Across your lifetime, you are allowed to take the LSAT a total of seven times.
- Perfect Score Rule- If you earn a perfect score of 180 within the current reportable score period, you are not permitted to retake the LSAT again during that period.
- What Counts Toward These Limits- Canceled LSAT scores (including those canceled through the Score Preview option) do count toward your total attempt limits. Absences and withdrawals, however, do not count.
- COVID-19 Exception- LSAC made a specific exception for May, June, July, and August 2020 LSAT-Flex tests. They do not count toward these numeric limits.
These retake limits are important for planning your LSAT prep and scheduling your test dates strategically so you don’t exceed the allowable attempts.
How Are Multiple LSAT Scores Evaluated?
Law schools receive and can see all reportable LSAT scores from the past five testing years. However, for most admissions decisions, law schools focus primarily on your highest LSAT score, as this is the score used for evaluation and rankings.
How Law Schools Review Multiple LSAT Scores
Admissions committees typically look more closely at scores only when they notice:
- Large score drops between test attempts
- Significant score fluctuations over time
- Multiple retakes with little or no improvement
In these situations, the goal is not to penalize test takers, but to better understand the context behind the results.
Do Multiple LSAT Scores Hurt Your Application?
In most cases, no. Retaking the LSAT is common, and a stronger score on a later attempt often works in your favor. Law schools understand that many applicants improve with additional preparation or a better test-day experience.
Explaining Score Differences
Some law schools allow or encourage applicants to submit a short LSAT addendum explaining unusual score patterns. This can be helpful if a lower score was affected by factors such as illness, technical issues, or changes in preparation strategy. Providing a clear explanation can help admissions committees evaluate your application more accurately.
Bottom line: Several LSAT scores are normal, your highest score matters most, and strategic retakes are widely accepted in the law school admissions process.
Does Retaking the LSAT Improve Your Score?
Retaking the LSAT can lead to a higher score, but it’s not guaranteed. According to LSAC, many test takers improve on a retake, especially with additional practice and focused prep. On average, scores increase by about two to three points, though individual results vary.
Expert Tip: Before deciding to retake, consider whether you can realistically improve your performance through more practice, targeted prep, or coaching. A strategic approach can make a meaningful difference on test day.
What Are the Risks of Retaking the LSAT?
Retaking the LSAT can help improve your score, but it’s important to be aware of potential risks so you can plan strategically:
- Lower Scores on Retakes: Some test takers may score lower on a second or third attempt. This isn’t uncommon, and admissions committees typically consider the highest score, but large drops may invite questions.
- Canceled Scores: Canceling a score after an attempt is allowed, but many canceled scores can sometimes prompt schools to ask for context. Use cancellations wisely and only when necessary.
- Timing and Application Delays: If you retake the LSAT too close to your law school application deadlines, your new score may not be reported in time. Planning your retake schedule carefully ensures your scores reach schools when they’re needed.
Expert Tip: With careful planning, preparation, and timing, you can manage these risks and make a retake a positive step in your law school journey.
How to Retake the LSAT Strategically
When considering a retake, timing and preparation are key. Here’s how you can plan your LSAT retake:
When Should You Retake the LSAT?
Retaking the LSAT can be a smart move if your first score doesn’t reflect your full potential or falls short of your target LSAT score. Many test takers improve when they dedicate extra time to LSAT prep, including practice tests, focused study, and targeted strategies for weaker areas.
Signs a retake may be beneficial:
- Score below your target: If your first attempt is far from your goal, a well-prepared retake can help you reach your desired range.
- Opportunity to improve with prep: If you can dedicate additional time to study or address specific weaknesses, a retake may lead to a higher score.
Timing Your LSAT Retake
- Plan around application deadlines: Ensure your new score will be reported in time for law school applications.
- Leave enough prep time: Schedule your retake so you can fully prepare without rushing.
- Consider LSAT Flex rules: If you plan to take the LSAT Flex, understand the test format and timing requirements, as they can affect your retake strategy.
Note: A strategic retake that is planned with preparation, timing, and target scores in mind can strengthen your application and improve your confidence on test day.
How Law Schools Evaluate Multiple LSAT Scores
Most law schools prioritize your highest LSAT score when making admissions decisions. However, admissions committees might review numerous LSAT scores from the same testing year or from within the current reportable score period (i.e., the past five years). Some law schools may even ask for an explanation if they notice a lower score or score fluctuations.
For second-time test takers, LSAC reports scores will show all your attempts, but law schools will typically emphasize the highest score.
Law School Applications and Test Scores
If you're applying to law schools, it’s important to understand how your LSAT scores will impact your application. Here's how multiple LSAT scores are viewed:
- Most law schools only report the highest LSAT score to the American Bar Association (ABA), which influences rankings.
- If there’s a significant improvement between tests (e.g., a 10-point increase), some law schools might consider it a positive change, while others may question the cause of such a jump.
LSAT Retake Costs and Fee Waivers
Retaking the LSAT means you’ll need to budget for several LSAC fees that apply whether it’s your first attempt or a retake. Here is a list of costs you can expect when registering for the LSAT or retaking it:
- LSAT Registration Fee: The cost to register for each LSAT administration is $248. This fee applies every time you take the exam, including retakes.
- LSAT Score Preview Fee: Score Preview option costs $45 if purchased before the test date or up to $85 if purchased after testing.
- Credential Assembly Service (CAS) Subscription: Required for law school applications, the CAS subscription costs $215 and remains active for five years.
- CAS Report Fee: Each law school you apply to must receive a separate CAS report, which costs $45 per report.
Note: These fees are separate from the LSAT registration itself and will apply whether you’re retaking the LSAT or applying with your first score.
Fee Waivers That Can Lower Costs
LSAC offers a fee waiver program for financially under‑resourced test takers. If approved, the waiver can cover many of the costs listed above, including:
- Free LSAT registrations (up to two under Tier 1), including Score Preview for those registrations
- Free CAS subscription
- A limited number of CAS reports (typically up to six)
- A one‑year LawHub Advantage subscription with practice tests and prep materials, all included in the waived benefits.
These waivers are designed to help reduce barriers for applicants, but note that not all fees may be waived automatically. Some may require completing certain steps or meeting eligibility requirements.
LSAT Retake 5 Expert Tips
Here’s how test takers can strategically improve their performance on the LSAT.
Take Full-Length, Timed Practice Tests
Simulate test day conditions by completing full-length LSAT tests under timed conditions. Doing so helps build test-taking stamina, improves pacing, and familiarizes you with the pressures of the exam. Aim to complete at least 10–15 practice tests before your next test date, tracking your progress over time to identify patterns in your performance.
Focus on Weak Areas
Analyze your previous test scores to identify sections where you struggled most. Spending extra time on these weak areas allows you to target your preparation efficiently and maximize score improvements. Understanding your mistakes relative to other test takers can also help refine your strategies for similar questions on the next LSAT test administration.
Consider Structured LSAT Prep
Enrolling in an LSAT prep course or working with a private tutor can benefit test takers who want structured guidance. Professional instruction can help clarify difficult question types, provide personalized strategies, and ensure you are fully prepared to take the LSAT again within your numerical limits for test attempts.
Improve Test-Taking Stamina and Focus
The LSAT is a long and demanding exam. Train your focus and endurance by simulating the length and conditions of actual test administration. Practice completing only test sections under timed conditions to replicate the mental demands of test day, so you remain alert and effective throughout your full exam.
Plan Strategically Around Test Limits
Be mindful of LSAC test-taking limits and plan your retakes within allowed numerical limits. Choosing your next test date strategically ensures that you have enough preparation time and that your scores will arrive in time for law school applications.
The Bottom Line
Deciding whether to retake the LSAT depends on your test day performance, target law schools, and how much your LSAT prep can improve your score. Understanding the LSAC retake policy and planning your next test date strategically helps you make the most of your retake opportunity. With focused preparation and a clear plan, you can approach your retake confidently and give yourself the best chance to achieve your goals and reach your highest potential on test day.
Work with LSAT Test Prep Coaches
Retaking the LSAT? Work with an LSAT tutor to focus on your weak areas, refine your strategy, and improve your score. You can also join our free events and bootcamps to deepen your knowledge, practice with expert guidance, and gain actionable strategies for your next test day.
Looking for more guidance on the LSAT and law school admissions? Check out these articles:
- LSAT Practice & Diagnostic Test Lists (Free & Paid)
- GRE vs. LSAT for Law School – Pros & Cons, Difficulty Level, & Which is Right for You
- LSAT Study Schedules: 1, 3, & 6-Month Plans
- The Top 5 LSAT Courses in 2026
- LSAT Format & Structure: Section-by-Section (2026)
FAQs
How common is it to retake the LSAT?
- It's fairly common to retake the LSAT. Around 20-30% of test takers retake the exam, according to various reports.
Can you retake the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) after applying?
- Yes, you can retake the LSAT after applying to law schools. However, you must inform the schools about your new score before the final decision is made.
Is 172 a bad LSAT score?
- No, a 172 is an excellent LSAT score, placing you in the top 2% of all test-takers.
Can I retake the LSAT more than once?
- Yes, you can retake the LSAT up to seven times in your lifetime, with three attempts per testing year.
Does the LSAT score preview really help?
- The LSAT score preview can help you decide whether to retake the LSAT by letting you see your score before it's officially reported.
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