GPA Addendum for Improved Grades

When applying to top law schools, presenting your academic history in the best possible light is crucial. A common question applicants face is whether to write a GPA addendum to highlight an upward trend in their grades. Here’s when a GPA addendum can help, what to focus on, and why your LSAT score matters more.

When a GPA Addendum Makes Sense

We recently heard from an LSAT Demon Daily listener with a 3.73 GPA and a 172 LSAT score. They wondered if pointing out the upward trend in their GPA—two 4.0 semesters and one 4.08 semester—would help or hurt their application.

A brief addendum highlighting improved grades can be beneficial. Admissions committees appreciate upward trends, as they suggest that your recent performance better reflects your potential. Keep the addendum short and positive. Avoid making excuses for earlier grades. Instead, focus on the improvement and let your upward trajectory speak for itself. 

For example, you might write: “In my final semesters, I earned two 4.0s and a 4.08, which I believe reflects my academic growth and current capabilities.”

Don’t Overemphasize Your GPA

While an addendum can help clarify your academic story, it’s important not to overdo it. In this case, a 3.73 GPA is solid, but it’s below the 25th percentile for most T14 law schools. Admissions committees will already consider your GPA in context, so obsessing over it or coming across as defensive may work against you.

Your goal is to briefly highlight your academic strengths without dwelling on the past. If your GPA doesn’t quite meet a school’s standards, other parts of your application—like your LSAT score—will carry more weight.

Focus on What Matters Most: Your LSAT Score

While a GPA addendum may provide a slight boost, it’s unlikely to impact your chances at top law schools significantly. A higher LSAT score, however, can make a real difference. For example, a 172 is a good score, but it’s near the median for many T14 schools. Raising that score even slightly could push your application from competitive to stand out. Since law schools care deeply about LSAT scores for rankings and admissions, retaking the test is often the most effective way to improve your chances.

If you believe you can score higher—based on practice tests and your comfort with the material—retaking the LSAT is worth considering. A score in the mid-170s could open doors to schools that might otherwise feel out of reach.

Broaden Your School List

While top law schools are competitive, don’t overlook strong programs outside the T14. Schools ranked just below the T14 often offer excellent opportunities, including substantial scholarships. Applying to a broader range of schools ensures you’ll have options, especially if your LSAT score or GPA is slightly below the median at top schools. Having multiple offers also gives you leverage to negotiate for better financial aid packages.

Final Thoughts

A GPA addendum can help highlight an upward trend in your grades, but it shouldn’t be the centerpiece of your application. Keep it concise, positive, and focused on your academic growth. If you’re serious about improving your chances at T14 schools, focus on raising your LSAT score. Even a slight increase can have a significant impact on your admissions prospects and scholarship opportunities. At the same time, apply broadly to ensure you have strong options. 

With a balanced strategy, you’ll maximize your chances of getting into a law school that aligns with your goals.