Do Law Schools Prefer the LSAT or GRE?

Quick answer: the numbers point to the LSAT. In the ABA’s fall 2025 data, 523 of about 41,840 first-year enrollees used the GRE, at 92 schools, and 127 used JD-Next, at 30 schools. Schools that accept both may say they have no preference, but the LSAT is clearly the main route, and every ABA school accepts it.

What the ABA Data Shows

That is a little over 1% of enrollees with the GRE. This counts students reported with those tests in the ABA’s 2025 data.

Why Schools May Lean Toward the LSAT

• It is built for law school, and it is widely used.
• Their LSAT medians are public, and they are watched closely.
• Scores are easy to compare between applicants.

How to Find a School’s View

1. Read its admissions page.
2. Look at how it treats GRE applicants for scholarships.
3. Email admissions and ask.
4. Check its LSAT numbers.

FAQ

Does it hurt to apply with the GRE?

Not at schools that truly accept it, but fewer people do it, so ask how it is viewed.

Which schools use the GRE the most?

In fall 2025, Harvard and Columbia each reported 37 GRE enrollees.

Should I switch from the LSAT to the GRE?

Only if your schools accept it and you do much better on it. See LSAT or GRE.

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