An LSAT score addendum is a short note you add to your law school application to explain something about your LSAT scores. Most often it explains a big jump between two scores or a score that was hurt by a real problem on test day.
An addendum can help when you have a good reason. It can also hurt if it sounds like an excuse. This guide shows when to write one, when to skip it, and gives example addenda you can adapt.
When You Should Write an LSAT Addendum
- A big score increase. For example, 151 the first time and 163 the second. You can explain what changed and why the higher score shows your real ability.
- A real problem on test day. Illness, a family emergency, a remote testing tech failure, or another documented event.
- A school asks for it. Some applications ask you to explain multiple scores or a cancelled score. Always answer if asked.
- A history of standardized test scores that do not match your grades, backed by real evidence such as a learning disability diagnosis.
When You Should Not Write One
- Your score is just lower than you hoped. A low score alone is not a reason for an addendum.
- “I am a bad test taker.” This can make readers worry about the bar exam, which is also a timed test.
- Small differences. A move from 158 to 160 is normal variation and does not need explaining.
- The school only looks at your highest score and does not ask about the others. Many schools report and weigh your highest score. See do law schools average LSAT scores.
How to Write an LSAT Score Addendum
- Keep it short. One paragraph, about 100 to 250 words. It is not a second personal statement.
- State the facts. Name the test dates and scores.
- Explain the cause in one or two sentences. No drama, no long story.
- Show what changed. More prep time, a new study method, the problem being solved.
- Point to the higher score as the best measure of your ability.
- Do not blame others and do not apologize over and over.
LSAT Addendum Examples
Example 1: Score Increase After Better Prep
I took the LSAT in June 2026 and scored 152. At the time, I was working full time and studied for about six weeks. After that test, I built a five-month study plan, took 14 full practice tests, and reviewed every missed question. In January 2027 I scored 163. I believe my January score better reflects my reading and reasoning skills, and the work habits I will bring to law school.
Example 2: Illness on Test Day
My first LSAT score of 148 in October 2026 was affected by a high fever that started the night before the exam. I had already passed the date change deadline and chose to sit for the test. My practice test average at the time was 159. When I retook the LSAT in January 2027, I scored 160, which is consistent with my preparation. I ask that you consider my January score as the more accurate measure of my ability.
Example 3: Remote Testing Problem
During my November 2026 LSAT, my internet connection failed twice during the third section, and I lost about ten minutes of testing time. I reported the problem to LSAC the same day. My score of 150 was well below my practice average of 158. I retook the test in a quiet test center in February 2027 and scored 159. I believe this second score shows my true ability.
Change the details to fit your own story. Never make up facts. Schools can ask for proof, and LSAC records test day reports.
LSAT Score Increase Addendum Tips
A big score jump (sometimes called a score jump addendum) is the most common reason to write one. Focus on what you did differently, not on why the first test went badly. Admissions readers like to see growth. A clear plan, more practice tests, and better review habits are good things to mention. Our guide on whether to retake the LSAT and our LSAT retake statistics show how often scores go up.
Where to Put Your Addendum
Most applications have an “Addendum” or “Additional Information” upload. Use a separate document with a clear title such as “LSAT Addendum.” If the school asks a direct question about your scores, answer it there instead.
LSAT Addendum FAQ
Do I need an addendum for a cancelled score?
Usually no. Schools see that you cancelled but not the score. Only explain it if the school asks. See should I cancel my LSAT score.
Can an addendum hurt my application?
Yes, if it is long, full of excuses, or explains something that did not need explaining. When in doubt, keep it short or skip it.
Should I write an addendum for three or more LSAT scores?
If the scores vary a lot, a short note can help readers see the pattern. If they are close together, an addendum is not needed. See taking the LSAT three times.
Planning a retake? Use our free LSAT score calculator to see how a higher score changes your percentile and school options.