Quick answer: a reverse splitter has a GPA above a school’s numbers and an LSAT below them. A strong GPA helps, but a score below the school’s range can still be hard to overcome. Often the best move is a retake, since your GPA is already set and your LSAT can still change.
What a Reverse Splitter Looks Like
A 3.9 and a 158 is a reverse splitter at a school with a 3.7 median GPA and a 165 median LSAT. You can see what this means across schools by entering your numbers in the admissions calculator.
LSAT or GPA: Which Helps More?
Look at our LSAT and GPA chart. Moving up 5 LSAT points tends to open more schools than a small GPA gain, and at this stage only the LSAT can really move.
How to Apply as a Reverse Splitter
- Consider a retake if your practice scores are higher.
- Apply to schools where your LSAT is near the 25th percentile or above.
- Aim to show strong work and clear goals.
- Use your personal statement to show your strengths.
- Apply early where you can.
What Not to Do
- Rely on your GPA alone.
- Skip a retake only because you dislike the test, if your practice scores are clearly higher.
- Write an addendum saying you are “a bad test taker” with no evidence.
FAQ
Do law schools like reverse splitters?
It varies. A high GPA helps, but a low LSAT can hurt a school’s median.
Should I write an addendum?
Only if there is real evidence, such as past low test scores alongside strong grades.
What about the GRE?
Only if your schools accept it. See LSAT or GRE.