What Is a Good LSAT Score?

If you want to get into a good law school - the kind that gains you entry into top-tier law firms - you'll need a great LSAT score. A perfect score is 180. A score of 160 or up is considered competitive.

That might seem really high. However, that top score can give you the edge you need to become the next Elle Woods ("Legally Blonde") or Jack McCoy ("Law & Order").

But just what is the point of LSAT, and is it really that important to securing your spot in a respected law school? We explain how LSAT scoring works and reveal how the LSAT impacts law school admissions.

LSAT score percentiles

Any American Bar Association (ABA) accredited law school requires the LSAT as part of its admissions process. The test is administered by the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC) and is designed to measure essential reading, logic, and writing skills that will help you succeed in law school.

When you get your LSAT results, you'll have a raw score, scaled score, and percentile score - we'll get into how those differ below. The one that's usually the most meaningful is the percentile score.

The percentile score shows how well you did compared to other test takers over the past three years. This is your chance to size up the competition! In general, a scaled score of 151 will put you in the 50th percentile, meaning you've done better than 50% of test takers.

Here's an overview of LSAT score ranges and the approximate percentiles they correspond to (this can vary depending on the year):

So, if you want to score in the 99th percentile you basically need a perfect score. No pressure, right?

What's the average LSAT score?

Nobody wants to be average. Of course, you want to do better than the baseline on your LSAT. But just what's average for this test, anyway? For first-time test takers, the average score is usually around 151.

What happens if you aren't happy with your score? You can cancel it and try again. But be aware: Second- and third-time test takers don't do much better. In fact, third-time test takers tend to have the lowest scores. Our tip? Prepare for the first try and ace it!

How is the LSAT scored?

The LSAT consists of three scored multiple-choice sections, each 35 minutes long, plus one unscored writing sample and one unscored experimental section (more on the unscored parts in the next section). The three scored sections are: 

• Reading comprehension (26-28 questions): The reading comprehension section is worth about 36% of your total score. You'll be presented with written passages to analyze in terms of point of view, purpose, and structure. There are also paired passages where you have to compare and contrast two similar texts. 
• Logical reasoning (22-24 questions): The logical reasoning section is worth about 31% of your score. You'll be presented with a single passage and asked to make deductions relating to its statements, conditions, and rules.
• Analytical reasoning (24-26 questions): The analytical reasoning section is worth about 33% of your total score. It evaluates your ability to analyze relationships. You'll be given short passages and asked questions about them.

In total, the LSAT consists of about 100 questions. How are they scored?

First, there's the raw score. This just refers to how many questions you got right. You don't get points deducted for incorrect answers. Then, there's the scaled score. The raw score is converted to a scaled score using a conversion chart, which is adjusted for each LSAT testing year.

You'll also be given a percentile score with your results.

How does the LSAT unscored writing sample impact you?

Just for good measure, we'll tell you about the unscored parts of the test, too. They can still impact law school admissions decisions.

The (unscored) experimental section consists of 22 to 28 questions and likewise is 35 minutes long. Here's the catch: You won't know which section is the experimental one. So, you might see two logic games sections, but you won't know which one is the experimental versus the real one.

Finally, there's the 35-minute writing section. You'll be asked to write an essay, which you'll be given eight days before your actual test day. This doesn't contribute to your score, but it's sent to law schools, so don't take it lightly!

An admissions officer will read your writing sample. You don't want it to be riddled with logical issues or typos. Make sure to give just as much attention to this piece of the LSAT as the rest.

Consider this: Say your LSAT score is 175. Amazing, right? You're sure to get into an awesome school like Yale. Here's the thing: The median LSAT score for admitted students to Yale in 2023 was 175. Suddenly, your score isn't so special. That's why you have to pay attention to every part of the law school application process. A well-written essay might be what puts you above other applicants.

How important are LSAT scores for law school admissions?

Yes, your law school application process involves WAY more than one standardized test. You'll need to submit your undergraduate transcripts, write personal statements, and highlight extracurriculars - there's a lot to do. In the midst of all that, does this one law school admission test really matter that much?

We hate to burst your bubble, but yeah. It does. In fact, LSAT test scores are the best determinant of how well a student will do in law school - so schools take them seriously. They don't want half of their student body flunking out, so they're going to prioritize those who show promise. In case you haven't started studying for the LSAT yet, this is your sign to get to it!

Hint: An LSAT prep course with practice tests can help you get the high LSAT score you need to get into your dream law school.

What LSAT scores do you need for top law schools?

So, what LSAT score do you need to be a competitive applicant at one of the nation's top law schools? Here's an overview of what makes for a good score on the LSAT exam for some of the most elite names in the country. These numbers look at the median score for the 2023 application cycle.

If you see your dream school on that list, you've got some studying to do. That said, while the LSAT is important, it's not the bottom line. Your undergraduate GPA is also a major factor. Other things do matter, like work experience and references - just not as much.

Discover how College Rover helps you find the best school for you

Whether you dream of becoming a compassionate public defender or want to be a ruthless litigator who's in it for the money, to become an attorney you need to ace the LSAT. A high score can help you get into a great school and set you up for future success.

That begs the question: Just what is a great school? Sure, there are the big names listed above. But there are other awesome law schools to consider. If you don't have the highest LSAT score of the bunch, there are still plenty of possibilities.

College Rover can help you find the law school that fits your unique needs. Scope out schools, comparing everything from acceptance rates to location details. College Rover also has other resources to help you in the admissions process, like tips for writing your personal statement.

Find out how College Rover can help you achieve your dreams of law school.