The LSAT is scored on a 120-180 scale using a two-step process: your raw score (number of questions answered correctly) is converted to a scaled score through a statistical process called equating, then your scaled score is ranked as a percentile among all test-takers from the previous three years. This calculator uses the official LSAC equating conversion and three-year percentile averages (2021-2024) to work out your scaled score and percentile. It also compares your scaled score against published T14 and T25 law school median benchmarks so you can figure out where you stand relative to your target programmes.

How LSAT Scoring Works

The LSAT does not penalise wrong answers, so your raw score is simply the number of questions you answer correctly. Most LSAT administrations contain 99 to 102 scored questions across three sections (two Logical Reasoning, one Analytical Reasoning, and one Reading Comprehension), though the exact count varies. The equating process adjusts for difficulty variation across test versions, so a scaled score of 165 on one version represents the same level of performance as a 165 on any other. Given that, raw score counts are not directly comparable between test dates, but scaled scores are. The LSAC score interpretation guide explains the full equating methodology and how percentile bands are calculated.

What Is a Good LSAT Score?

A score of 150 is near the 32nd percentile, which is around average for all test-takers. A score of 160 places you at the 74th percentile and is broadly competitive for a wide range of ABA-accredited law schools. To figure out whether your score is competitive for a specific programme, compare it to that school's 25th to 75th percentile range, which is published each year in the ABA 509 disclosure data. On top of that, law schools use a combination of LSAT and GPA in their admissions models, so a high GPA can partially offset a lower LSAT and vice versa.

For T14 law schools, scores below 165 are generally below median for most programmes. Yale, Harvard, and Stanford carry medians of 174 or above, while Georgetown and UCLA typically require 166 or above to be in the competitive pool. That said, applicants with lower LSAT scores and exceptional GPA, work experience, or diversity factors do receive offers at T14 schools, particularly in the upper band of the below-median range. Our GRE Score Calculator provides equivalent percentile benchmarks if you are also considering programmes that accept the GRE in addition to the LSAT.

Should You Retake the LSAT?

LSAC data shows that approximately 40% of candidates who retake the LSAT improve their score, and the median improvement across all retakers is 2 to 3 points. Retaking is worth considering if your score is more than 4 points below the median of your target schools and if a detailed error analysis reveals systematic weaknesses that additional preparation could address. As a result, the decision to retake should be based on a specific target score, not simply a desire for a higher number. Before committing to a retake, narrow down your weakest section using a full error log of your most recent sitting, then carry out targeted section preparation against that specific area. LSAC allows candidates to take the LSAT up to five times in a five-year period and a maximum of three times in one testing year. Most law schools consider your highest score through their standard admissions process, though all scores remain visible on your record.

The LSAC score use policy confirms that while all scores are reported, most ABA-accredited law schools use the highest score for ranking purposes. To build up a complete application profile, our GPA Calculator lets you combine your LSAT score analysis with your undergraduate GPA to carry out a full two-number admissions assessment.

How Law Schools Use LSAT Scores

Law school admissions offices use LSAT scores as one input in a holistic review, but the score carries significant weight because US News rankings and other ranking systems use median LSAT as a key metric. A school's published median LSAT represents the 50th percentile of their enrolled class, meaning half of enrolled students scored above it and half scored below. Applicants above the 75th percentile for a given school are in a strong position from a numbers standpoint. Given that scholarships are often tied to the numbers profile, candidates above the 75th percentile LSAT for a school frequently receive merit-based offers. With that in mind, applying to schools where your LSAT is above median is often a better scholarship strategy than applying only to reach schools where you are below median.