Law School Admissions

Should I Retake the LSAT for Scholarship Money?

By Andrew Collins / April 30, 2026

A retake can pay off if it lifts you above a school's 75th percentile. See how to work out if the extra points are worth it.

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

  1. Pick your target schools and find their 75th percentile with the target score tool.
  2. Check your odds with the scholarship calculator.
  3. Compare your best score with your recent practice scores in the predictor.
  4. 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.

Related LSAT Planning Tools