LSAT Score Guide

While the number of questions in each test varies slightly, you can expect to see anything from 99-102 multiple-choice questions. Your LSAT score is based on the number of questions answered correctly; this is your “raw score”. Each question is granted the same weightage, and you will not be penalised for any incorrect answers. To allow for a fairer consideration of your scores, your raw score will be converted to a scaled score ranging from 120-180. An average LSAT test taker will achieve a scale score of 150.

The scaled score deviates from a traditional bell curve as the scale is set before students sit for the test. Scaling benefits test-takers as it helps to account for the discrepancies and variances between different papers. For example, on a more challenging test, you might be allowed 11 incorrect answers and still achieve a scaled score of 170. Conversely, on an easier test, you would only be allowed 9 incorrect answers for the same scaled score.

In addition, you will also receive your percentile ranking. This depicts your performance in relation to every test taker from the previous three testing years. The higher your percentile ranking, the better your comparative performance.

The final component included in the score report is your score band. Since LSAT scores are only estimates of your actual ability in the skills tested, your true proficiency may be slightly higher or slightly lower than that reflected by your official LSAT score. The score band includes a range of scores slightly higher and lower than the score received, within which your actual skill ability is found. For the LSAT, your score band is roughly 3 points above and 3 points below your scaled score with a 68% level of confidence. Should you sit for the test multiple times, your score band is recalculated based on previous performances, creating a typically narrower band.

The LSAT now offers a score preview exclusively for first-time test takers. For a nominal fee, first-time test takers can decide to cancel or keep their test scores, but they must make their decision within the first 6 calendar days upon receiving their results. This practice was introduced to curb test anxiety for new test-takers, which is why score preview is only applicable for your first try.

Should you wish, you can also request a score audit after receiving your LSAT scores. Do note that you will be charged for this, and the process can take up to several weeks to be completed. However, the initial test response data is reviewed before official results are released, so score audits rarely result in a score change.