Make Law Schools Thirsty

A listener in this episode already did the hardest part of the admissions process: they earned a 176 LSAT score.

That’s the foundation of a strong application.

But once your numbers are in place, what else can you do to improve your admissions chances and scholarship offers?

Don’t Negotiate Against Yourself

The listener asked whether they should tell their top-choice school it was their dream school.

Nathan and Josh warned against that approach.

If a school thinks you’re guaranteed to attend, you lose leverage. Alongside admissions, schools are trying to determine how much scholarship money they actually need to offer you.

You want them thinking:

“We need to compete for this applicant.”

Not:

“They’ll come here anyway.”

Law schools want to offer you the smallest amount you'll actually accept. 

Your Numbers Still Matter Most

Nathan puts it bluntly:

“Your 176 is your application.”

That doesn’t mean the rest of your application is irrelevant. Personal statements, recommendation letters, and continued interest can all matter around the margins.

But your LSAT and GPA drive the process.

Everything else mostly helps confirm that you are serious, professional, and likely to succeed.

Show Interest Without Sounding Desperate

There are smart ways to show interest in a school.

Attend information sessions. Sign up for newsletters. Ask thoughtful questions. Talk to alumni or career services. Visit a class if possible.

These actions can help schools see you as a serious candidate without making it seem like they already “have” you.

The key is confidence.

You are evaluating them just as much as they are evaluating you.

Schools Care About Outcomes

Law schools do not only care about their class’s median LSAT and GPA.

They also care about employment outcomes, student career prospects, and future donations.

Along with LSAT and GPA medians, the U.S. News law school rankings are driven by other factors like employment outcomes and bar passage rates. Schools have a strong financial incentive to compete for applicants who are likely to improve those numbers because a higher ranking helps attract more students, prestige, and money.

That’s why showing genuine professional ambition can help. Schools want students who will succeed, represent the school well, and contribute to the alumni network down the line.

Price Matters More Than “Fit”

During his own admissions cycle, Josh told schools that price would be the biggest factor in his decision.

That’s often the right approach, especially when your LSAT score puts you above a school’s medians.

Schools know applicants have choices. If you signal that scholarship money matters, schools may become more competitive with their offers.

Focus on What Actually Moves the Needle

 Students often spend too much time trying to optimize admissions details.

The best way to boost your application is your LSAT score.

After that, focus on submitting polished application materials, showing reasonable interest, applying broadly, and negotiating confidently.

That combination gives you real leverage.