Your Numbers Matter Most

When applying to law school, your LSAT score and undergraduate GPA are the two most important factors. These numbers act as a benchmark, often determining whether admissions committees consider the rest of your application. Here’s what you need to know about prioritizing your LSAT and GPA and how other elements of your application can add value.

LSAT and GPA Come First

While personal stories, work experience, and unique perspectives can add depth to your application, law schools typically evaluate LSAT and GPA first. If these numbers don’t meet a school’s standards, other accomplishments may not ever be reviewed or carry enough weight to make up the difference—especially at top-ranked institutions.

For highly competitive schools, even slight gaps in your academic metrics can become significant obstacles. That’s why maximizing these numbers should be your top priority before focusing on other aspects of your application.

Should You Explain Gaps in Education?

If your undergraduate education was interrupted, you may need to address it in your application. Many schools include a section asking about educational gaps. However, the way you discuss it is often more consequential than the topic itself. Keep your explanation brief and professional—stick to the facts and avoid narration or overexplaining. Going into unnecessary details can raise more questions than it answers. In all cases, highlight your ability to persevere and overcome issues instead of focusing on the challenges themselves. 

LSAT Score Impact

A strong LSAT score and competitive GPA can lead to significant scholarships, even at highly-ranked schools. For any school you’re thinking about applying to, it's important to review their ABA-mandated 509 report. A law school’s 509 Report provides essential data, including admissions statistics, LSAT and GPA medians, tuition costs, and scholarship distributions. 

Reviewing this report helps you make informed decisions by understanding a school’s academic outcomes, financial expectations, and overall competitiveness. To see how your LSAT score and GPA affect your scholarship opportunities and to review current law school 509 reports, go to lsatdemon.com/scholarships. 

Professional Experience and Certifications

Professional experience and certifications, such as a CFA, can enhance your application, especially if they align with your intended area of law. These credentials demonstrate career focus and maturity, but they’re unlikely to outweigh a weaker LSAT or GPA at highly competitive schools. Still, relevant experience in fields like finance, education, or nonprofit work can give you an edge at schools where your academic metrics already make you competitive.

Retaking the LSAT

If your LSAT score is close to competitive but not quite there, retaking the test can be a smart move. Law schools (US) only consider your highest score, so even a slight improvement can increase your chances of admission and scholarships. Your practice test performance should determine whether you decide to retake the LSAT. If your practice scores suggest potential for improvement, retaking the LSAT could unlock more opportunities.

Broaden Your Application Strategy

Applying to a wide range of schools is an effective way to maximize your options and compare financial aid offers. Don’t focus solely on rankings or prestige. Schools ranked slightly lower often provide comparable education and more generous financial aid. A balanced approach—applying to reach, target, and safety schools—gives you the best chance to secure favorable scholarship packages and find the right fit.

Final Takeaways

Successful law school applicants focus on clear goals, prioritize academic metrics, and apply strategically to a range of schools. By centering your efforts on strong LSAT and GPA scores, gaining practical experience, and taking a broad application approach, you can position yourself for both academic success and financial flexibility.