Quick answer: it can be worth it, if a few more points would lift you above your target school’s 75th percentile. Merit money often goes to students who raise a school’s numbers. A retake costs a registration fee and study time, but a bigger scholarship could be worth far more.
How Many More Scholarship Schools?
| Score change | Schools where you reach the 75th (before) | (after) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 to 153 | 3 | 11 |
| 155 to 158 | 23 | 58 |
| 158 to 161 | 58 | 98 |
| 160 to 163 | 87 | 120 |
| 163 to 166 | 120 | 145 |
| 165 to 168 | 137 | 162 |
| 168 to 171 | 162 | 177 |
| 170 to 173 | 172 | 185 |
Based on the 2025 ABA 509 numbers for all 196 schools.
How to Decide
- Pick your target schools and find their 75th percentile with the target score tool.
- Check your odds with the scholarship calculator.
- Compare your best score with your recent practice scores in the predictor.
- Ask if the timing works with your applications.
Should You Apply First or Retake First?
Many schools make offers on a rolling basis, so there can be a trade off between applying early and testing again. If you do retake after applying, tell the schools, as some may review your scholarship.
FAQ
How much is a retake worth?
It depends on the school. See how much a higher score can save.
Will a higher score raise an offer I already have?
Sometimes. Ask the school, since policies differ.
Do scholarships have conditions?
Some require a certain GPA in law school. Read the terms.