LSAT Basics

When it comes to LSAT scores, one point can mean the difference between the law school of your dreams and the law school of your nightmares.

LSAT scores are given on a scale of 120 to 180. A 180 LSAT score is the LSAT score you would get if you answered every question correctly (definitely possible), while a 120 LSAT score is the LSAT score you would get if you answered every question incorrectly (almost impossible). A 180 LSAT score usually earns you a ticket to the law school of your choice; the 120 LSAT score is a rarity.

The average LSAT score is 150 and is good enough to get into a large number of law schools. An LSAT score in the 170s typically falls in the 99th percentile and qualifies students for higher-tiered law schools.

Test-takers typically receive their LSAT scores three weeks after LSAT test day. The Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) releases LSAT scores online in random chunks throughout the day. Test-takers can cancel their LSAT the day of the exam or during the six days that follow LSAT test day. If there is no cancellation, LSAC will release your LSAT score to you and the schools you to which you are applying.

For those who are inexperienced with the LSAT, taking an actual exam before any sort of study gives you a baseline LSAT score that you can then use to set a target LSAT score. You can then build your entire approach to LSAT prep around the goal of earning that targeted LSAT score.

You can take a free practice LSAT, score it, and get explanations for all of the questions right here in our free LSAT help area.