Applying to Law School Without the LSAT

Quick answer: yes, at some schools, but it is uncommon. The main options are the GRE, JD-Next and special programs at a school’s own university. 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. Each school sets its own rules, so check before you skip the LSAT.

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Your Options

Option	What it is	Keep in mind
GRE	A general graduate school test	Only some schools accept it
JD-Next	An online course followed by an exam	Approved does not always mean accepted
Direct programs	Some universities offer paths for their own students	Rules are specific to each school

Why Most People Still Take the LSAT

It keeps every ABA school open to you.
School medians and many scholarships are built around it.
It is the most common route by a wide margin.

When Skipping It Could Make Sense

You are set on schools that accept another test.
You have a strong GRE already.
You qualify for a specific direct program.

How to Check a School

Read its admissions page for the current year.
Ask if the other test affects scholarships.
Ask if it wants any LSAT scores you have.

FAQ

Can I go to law school without taking the LSAT?

Yes, at some schools, using another approved route.

Is any ABA school test optional?

Rules are changing, so check each school. Most still ask for a test score.

Is a test free route easier?

Not always, and it can narrow your choices.