10 Productive Things to Do While Waiting for Your LSAT Scores

The days following the completion of your LSAT can feel like an emotional rollercoaster. You may experience a variety of feelings, ranging from relief to anxiety, uncertainty, and even excitement. It’s natural to feel a sense of relief once the exam is over—after months of intense preparation, the pressure finally lifts. However, this relief is often tempered by feelings of anxiety. How did you perform? Did you answer all the questions you felt confident about? Did you have time to finish everything? The doubt that creeps in can feel overwhelming, especially as you wait for the results to be released.

For many LSAT test-takers, the waiting period is marked by sleepless nights, constant self-questioning, and an ongoing sense of uncertainty. The prospect of receiving a high score and securing a spot in your desired law school is a dream come true, but the thought of not performing well enough to move forward can feel disheartening.

The first thing to acknowledge in this situation is that you are not alone. Everyone experiences this anxiety to some degree, whether they have spent months preparing or only a few weeks. The anticipation of your LSAT score can be grueling, and while it’s easy to become fixated on the “what-ifs,” it’s important to channel that energy into productive activities that will benefit you in the long run.

Understanding What’s Next

After the test, what you choose to do during this waiting period can have a significant impact on your plans. If you feel confident in your performance, you may find yourself preparing to celebrate your success. If you’re unsure or think you may need a retake, now is the time to assess the situation and start planning for that possibility. How you spend this time depends heavily on whether you feel the need to retake the test or if you’re confident that your score is sufficient for the law schools you are aiming for.

If you are on the fence, it’s crucial to approach the situation strategically. Instead of merely waiting for your score with a sense of dread or restlessness, use this time to stay productive. Whether or not you eventually retake the test, there are ways to use this period of limbo in a manner that will strengthen your overall application and mindset.

If You Think a Retake Might Be in Your Future

For those who are uncertain about their performance, the possibility of a retake looms large. If you feel there’s a chance your score won’t meet your target, the best thing you can do is continue working on your LSAT preparation while waiting for the score release. A few more days of review and practice could make the difference. Even though it may feel like you’ve already put in a lot of effort, keep in mind that you don’t have to dive into full-scale study mode right away. A few hours each day spent reviewing weak areas or doing practice questions could maintain your momentum and ensure that you don’t lose your edge.

While it’s tempting to put things on hold until you receive your score, staying mentally sharp can provide an advantage. If you’re on the fence about whether you need a retake, maintaining your level of preparedness during the wait can serve as a buffer. That way, if the results show that you need to take the test again, you can hit the ground running instead of scrambling to get back into study mode.

It’s important to approach the waiting period with a balanced perspective. If you’re pretty confident your score will land within a satisfactory range, there’s no need to continue at full intensity. Instead, consider a lighter approach. Review practice tests, focus on refining specific areas where you felt unsure during the test, and give yourself space to relax. However, if you’re less confident and suspect that a retake is inevitable, then doubling down on preparation is wise. You might even consider scheduling a retake date in advance so you have a clear timeline in place.

If a Retake Seems Unlikely

On the other hand, if you’re relatively confident in your performance, don’t feel the need to panic. If you believe your score is likely to meet your target, it’s okay to take it easy while you wait. Avoiding burnout is important. Taking a break from studying can allow you to recharge mentally and emotionally. Keep in mind, the preparation process for the LSAT is intense and can lead to burnout if you push yourself too hard.

If you’re confident your efforts have paid off, don’t feel pressured to continue studying. However, make sure to remain aware of the impact of a potentially lower score. Even though it might seem like a relief to step away, knowing that you might have to revisit LSAT prep could feel like an emotional burden.

Developing the Right Mindset for the Wait

It’s vital to develop the right mindset during this waiting period. Embrace the uncertainty, but also understand that the outcome is largely out of your control for now. What you can control is how you choose to spend the time leading up to the score release. Instead of sitting idly by, use this time to evaluate other parts of your law school application. If you’re still working on your statement, revising it for clarity and depth, or finalizing your list of recommenders, then you can make the most of the waiting period by refining these aspects.

The waiting period can also be an opportunity to step back and assess your overall law school strategy. Do you need to expand your options by considering a wider range of schools? Are there additional steps you can take to boost your application? Consider reaching out to admissions counselors, attending law school fairs, or networking with other students and professionals in the legal field. Even if you’re unsure about your LSAT performance, you can still use the waiting period to gather information, make connections, and ensure your application is as strong as possible.

Stay Focused, But Stay Relaxed

Ultimately, it’s about balance. You don’t want to become overly anxious, but you also don’t want to sit idle and waste valuable time. You can stay productive without overwhelming yourself. Finding a balance between continued LSAT prep and working on other parts of your law school journey is key. Use the waiting period to your advantage and ensure that, regardless of the outcome, you’re in a good position to move forward.

In summary, the time after taking your LSAT doesn’t have to be a period of wasted potential. It’s an opportunity to refine your application, continue preparing for the next steps, and ensure that when your scores do come in, you are ready to act accordingly. Whether you’re preparing for a retake or awaiting a satisfying score, staying productive and focused will give you a sense of control over the situation and help you stay on track toward your law school goals.

Making the Most of the Waiting Period—Strategies for Staying Productive

Once the LSAT is behind you, the next challenge is managing the time before your scores are released. The emotional rollercoaster may continue, but it’s important to maintain your focus and channel your energy into activities that will benefit your law school journey. The waiting period is a valuable opportunity to make progress in areas outside of test preparation, while still keeping your eye on your potential next steps.

Time to Assess and Refine Your Application

One of the best ways to spend your time while waiting for LSAT scores is to focus on your law school application. If you’ve already submitted your application but are awaiting the LSAT score to finalize it, now is the perfect time to ensure that every other element of your application is ready. You should continue refining the non-test aspects of your application, such as your statement, letters of recommendation, and resume.

A personal statement can always be improved, no matter how confident you are in your original draft. This is your chance to reflect on your experiences and what makes you a unique candidate for law school. Use the waiting time to revise your statement, perhaps asking a mentor or advisor to review it for clarity, grammar, and impact. Consider whether it fully represents your passion for law and your goals for the future.

In addition to the personal statement, securing strong letters of recommendation is crucial. While you may already have a few individuals in mind, now is the time to approach them formally and give them plenty of time to write thoughtful, personalized letters. Think carefully about who can best speak to your skills, accomplishments, and character. If you haven’t already done so, reach out to professors, employers, or mentors who can write compelling recommendations on your behalf.

Don’t forget about your resume, either. Make sure it reflects your most current achievements and activities. Law schools typically prefer applicants who demonstrate leadership, initiative, and community involvement. If you’ve participated in internships, volunteering, or other activities that are relevant to your application, ensure these experiences are properly highlighted on your resume.

Organize Your Application Materials

If you haven’t already, take this time to double-check that you have all the necessary materials for your law school applications. Review the specific requirements of the schools you’re applying to and ensure that you haven’t missed any forms or documents. Many law schools require transcripts, standardized test scores, and additional essays or supplemental materials.

If you’ve been focusing heavily on preparing for the LSAT, it’s easy to overlook these other details. Now is the time to review each law school’s application portal and make sure you’re not missing any important information or deadlines. Consider setting up a checklist for each school to keep track of what’s required and what’s already been submitted.

Exploring New Learning Opportunities

Even though you’re waiting for your LSAT score, this is also a perfect time to explore new learning opportunities. Law school is a demanding academic environment, and it’s important to continuously improve your critical thinking and analytical skills. There are many online courses and resources available to help you stay mentally engaged while not overloading yourself with additional LSAT prep.

Consider taking a course in a subject that interests you and could benefit your future legal studies. For example, subjects like philosophy, political science, economics, or even logic and argumentation can improve your reasoning and writing abilities. These subjects are often relevant to law school curricula, and strengthening your foundation in them now will help you in your future studies.

Additionally, reading books related to law or the legal field can help you get a jump-start on your law school education. Explore materials that discuss the legal process, landmark cases, or the experiences of practicing lawyers. This will not only help you become familiar with legal concepts but also provide you with insights that could make your transition to law school smoother.

Network and Connect with Law Professionals

Networking during the waiting period can also be an invaluable way to use your time. While you may feel like everything depends on your LSAT score, building connections with individuals in the legal field can help you in more ways than one. Whether you’re preparing for law school or considering a gap year, networking can open doors and provide useful perspectives on what it’s like to be in the legal profession.

Consider reaching out to law school alumni, current students, or professionals in the field. This can give you a better understanding of what law school entails, the career paths available, and what skills you need to develop in the future.

If possible, try to attend networking events, conferences, or workshops related to the legal profession. Many law firms or legal organizations host events for prospective law students, and these can be great opportunities to learn more about the industry, meet others with similar goals, and gain insight into what law schools expect from their applicants.

Preparing for the Possibility of a Retake

While waiting for your LSAT scores, it’s also important to prepare yourself mentally for the possibility of a retake. Even if you are confident in your performance, it’s still a good idea to consider your options. If you find that your score doesn’t meet your expectations, you may need to retake the test.

Although it can be disappointing to think about retaking the LSAT, remember that this is a common part of the application process. Many applicants do not achieve their target score on their first attempt, and retaking the LSAT is an opportunity to improve their performance. If you think a retake is in your future, don’t wait until your scores are released before you start thinking about it.

Begin by evaluating the areas where you struggled most during the test. Was it time management, reading comprehension, logical reasoning, or a specific section that tripped you up? By identifying your weaknesses, you can begin to focus your efforts on improving those skills in preparation for your next test. Review the materials you used in your initial preparation, and consider whether you need to adjust your study strategy. This proactive approach will ensure that you are prepared to tackle the test again if necessary.

If you are unsure about how to approach a retake, many LSAT prep courses offer support, guidance, and study plans tailored to individual needs. Even without a formal course, there are many online resources and study groups available to help you stay focused and motivated as you prepare for a potential retake.

Take Care of Your Well-being

Lastly, don’t forget to take care of yourself. The waiting period can be stressful, but it’s important to maintain balance in your life. Taking breaks, practicing relaxation techniques, and ensuring you’re getting enough sleep and exercise will help you stay grounded and focused during this time. The mental and emotional strain of waiting for your LSAT scores can be intense, but finding time for self-care will help you navigate the process with greater ease.

Remember, law school is a long journey, and there will be many more challenges ahead. How you manage this waiting period will influence your mindset as you move forward. Whether you’re preparing for a retake or simply waiting for the next phase of your application process to unfold, use this time wisely and take advantage of every opportunity to improve. The actions you take now, even while waiting, will ultimately make you stronger and more prepared for what comes next in your legal career.

 Strategic Preparation for a Potential Retake

While waiting for your LSAT scores, it is crucial to consider the possibility of a retake. Whether your scores exceed your expectations or fall short, the reality is that many applicants retake the LSAT to improve their scores and boost their chances of admission to their preferred law schools. If you suspect that a retake may be in your future, it’s a good idea to begin preparing for it, even before your scores are officially released. By proactively approaching your study plan, you can minimize stress and maximize your performance when you sit for the exam again.

Reflecting on Your Performance

One of the most productive ways to spend your waiting period is to reflect on your performance during the LSAT. After taking the test, you likely had a sense of which sections went well and which ones were more challenging. Whether you felt confident throughout the exam or struggled with certain areas, now is the time to evaluate your experience.

Think back to each section: the Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning (Logic Games), and Reading Comprehension. Which one gave you the most trouble? Was there a specific type of question that you found more difficult to answer? Did you struggle with time management? Identifying the areas where you struggled will help you tailor your study plan for a potential retake. Focus on the sections that caused you the most trouble, whether it was due to content knowledge or test-taking strategies.

For example, if you found yourself running out of time in the Logical Reasoning section, it may indicate that you need to work on your pacing. On the other hand, if you had difficulty with the Logic Games, this could suggest that you need to improve your analytical thinking and diagramming techniques.

Once you’ve identified the areas that need improvement, set specific goals for what you want to work on during the waiting period. Take time to review your previous practice tests or LSAT prep materials to pinpoint exactly where you struggled. This self-assessment is critical for creating a focused and efficient study plan for the next few months.

Breaking Down the Areas of Focus

When preparing for a potential LSAT retake, it’s essential to break down each section of the test into smaller, manageable components. By approaching your weaknesses in this way, you’ll be able to improve your understanding and performance gradually, without feeling overwhelmed.

Logical Reasoning – This section evaluates your ability to understand, analyze, and evaluate arguments. If you struggled here, it could be due to misunderstanding the logic behind the questions or misinterpreting the argument. To improve, practice identifying the main conclusion and evidence within the argument. Make sure you understand how different types of logical fallacies and argument structures work, as they are commonly tested on the LSAT. Targeted practice on the specific types of questions (e.g., strengthening, weakening, inference) can help you improve your accuracy and speed.

Analytical Reasoning (Logic Games) – This section requires strong problem-solving skills, as it tests your ability to understand and solve complex logic puzzles. If you found the Logic Games difficult, it may be due to an unfamiliarity with the specific logic structures or challenges in setting up the games. To improve, spend time studying different types of logic games (e.g., sequencing, grouping, matching) and practicing with timed drills. The key to mastering this section is understanding the logic behind each puzzle and practicing your diagramming and reasoning skills. The more you practice, the faster and more accurate you will become.

Reading Comprehension – This section tests your ability to read and understand complex texts. If you struggled with Reading Comprehension, it could be because you were unable to quickly identify the main idea or pinpoint key details in the passage. To improve, practice reading dense, complex texts and work on summarizing the key points of each paragraph. Practice answering questions based on these texts, ensuring that you can identify the correct answer quickly. Additionally, consider improving your reading speed and comprehension by reading academic articles, legal texts, or news pieces to help build your stamina for reading long, dense passages.

Time Management Strategies

Time management is one of the most crucial elements in LSAT preparation. The exam is designed to test not just your knowledge, but also your ability to apply that knowledge under time constraints. If time management was an issue during your first attempt, it’s essential to incorporate time-saving strategies into your retake study plan.

Start by timing yourself during practice tests. The more you practice under timed conditions, the more familiar you will become with the pacing of the test. You’ll learn how much time to spend on each question and how to move on when you’re unsure about an answer.

Consider setting aside a few minutes at the start of each section to mentally prepare and strategize. This will help you focus on the task at hand and make better decisions about which questions to tackle first. If you encounter a challenging question, don’t spend too much time dwelling on it—move on and come back to it if time allows.

In addition to pacing yourself on practice tests, consider reviewing the results afterward. If you struggled with managing time on certain sections, figure out why. Did you spend too much time on one type of question? Did you struggle with a particular section and fall behind? Identifying these areas can help you refine your time management strategies going forward.

Utilizing Practice Tests and Resources

As you prepare for a potential retake, practice tests will be your best tool for improving. The more you simulate real test conditions, the more you will improve your timing, focus, and understanding of the exam format.

Incorporate full-length practice tests into your study plan, and aim to take them under test-like conditions—timed, with minimal distractions. Be sure to review your practice tests thoroughly after you complete them. Look for patterns in your mistakes and determine whether they are due to misreading questions, poor time management, or difficulty with specific concepts.

In addition to full practice tests, you can also use individual question sets or practice drills to focus on specific areas of weakness. This targeted practice will help you build confidence in your weaker areas and allow you to reinforce concepts that need improvement.

Seeking Help or Tutoring

If you feel like your study methods aren’t providing the results you want, it might be time to seek outside help. Many LSAT prep companies offer one-on-one tutoring or small group sessions, which can be highly beneficial for personalized attention. Tutors can provide specific guidance on your weaknesses, offer tailored study plans, and help you develop test-taking strategies. If you’re struggling to improve on your own, tutoring can be a great investment in your success.

You can also consider joining an LSAT study group or online community. Collaborating with other test-takers can help you gain new perspectives, learn different strategies, and provide you with accountability. Being part of a community can also keep you motivated and focused on your goal.

Maintaining a Positive Mindset

Throughout the retake preparation process, maintaining a positive mindset is key. It’s easy to become discouraged when facing a retake, but remember that many successful law school applicants have retaken the LSAT and improved their scores. Instead of viewing a retake as a setback, see it as an opportunity to grow, improve, and refine your skills. A higher score could make all the difference in your law school admissions process.

Stay motivated and positive by setting clear goals and celebrating small victories along the way. Keep your eye on the prize: law school and a career in the legal field. With determination, focus, and the right strategies, you can improve your LSAT score and strengthen your application.

Turning Limbo into Opportunity

While waiting for your LSAT scores, it’s essential to remain proactive, focused, and positive. Whether your results are what you hoped for or if a retake is on the horizon, the actions you take during this waiting period can set the stage for your next steps. Use the time wisely to evaluate your strengths and weaknesses, refine your application materials, and consider how you can improve for the future. With the right mindset and preparation, you’ll be ready for whatever comes next in your law school journey.

 Moving Forward—What to Do After Receiving Your LSAT Score

Once the waiting period ends and your LSAT score is finally released, you may feel a range of emotions. Relief, excitement, disappointment, or even uncertainty might flood over you, depending on the outcome. Regardless of your score, the next steps you take will have a significant impact on your future path toward law school. Whether you achieved your desired score or need to consider a retake, it’s essential to approach the next phase strategically.

Evaluating Your Score

The first step after receiving your LSAT score is to evaluate it in the context of your law school goals. Each law school has its own median LSAT score for admitted students, and understanding where your score falls relative to these medians will help you determine whether your score meets your expectations and aligns with your application strategy.

If your score is close to or above the median LSAT score for your target schools, then congratulations! You’re in a strong position to move forward with your law school applications. In this case, you can begin finalizing other components of your application and prepare for the next steps, such as submitting applications or attending interviews.

However, if your score is lower than you hoped for, it’s not the end of the road. Many law school applicants retake the LSAT, and a higher score can dramatically improve their chances of admission. While a lower-than-expected score can be discouraging, it’s important to remember that this is just one part of your application, and there are always options available to strengthen your candidacy.

What to Do If You’re Satisfied With Your Score

If you’re pleased with your LSAT score and it meets or exceeds the expectations of your target schools, it’s time to turn your attention to the rest of your law school application. Here are some next steps to consider:

1. Finalize Your Application Materials – Make sure that all aspects of your application are in order. If you haven’t already done so, submit your LSAT score to the law schools on your list. Double-check that your statement, letters of recommendation, and resume are polished and ready for submission. Ensure that you’ve met all application requirements, including transcripts and any additional essays or documents.
2. Apply Strategically – If you haven’t already submitted applications, now is the time to start. Many law schools have rolling admissions, so applying early can give you a better chance of securing a spot. Research deadlines carefully and make sure you submit your applications well before the cutoff dates. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to be considered for scholarships and financial aid.
3. Focus on Other Aspects of Your Application – While your LSAT score is important, it’s not the only factor that law schools consider. If you’ve achieved your desired LSAT score, shift your attention to other parts of your application that can help you stand out, such as your statement, interviews, and extracurricular activities. If you have any notable achievements, volunteer work, or internships related to law, highlight them to strengthen your candidacy.

What to Do If You’re Unsatisfied With Your Score

If your LSAT score falls short of your expectations, it’s natural to feel disappointed. However, this doesn’t mean you’re out of options. The path to law school is not defined by one test, and many successful applicants have had to retake the LSAT to improve their scores. Here’s what you can do if you’re considering a retake:

1. Take Time to Reflect – Before jumping into a retake, it’s important to reflect on your first experience with the LSAT. Take time to assess where you went wrong. Was it an issue with time management? Did you struggle with specific types of questions? Did you feel unprepared in certain areas? By understanding the root of your challenges, you can develop a more effective study plan for your retake.
2. Adjust Your Study Plan – If you’re retaking the LSAT, it’s crucial to adjust your approach. This could mean revising your study schedule, focusing more on the areas that gave you the most trouble, or changing your test prep strategy entirely. You might also want to explore new study materials or take a prep course if you didn’t use one before. Consistent and targeted practice is key to improving your score.
3. Manage Expectations for the Retake – Keep in mind that retaking the LSAT isn’t guaranteed to result in a higher score. It’s important to manage your expectations and approach the retake with realistic goals. Set specific, measurable targets for your improvement and track your progress. By focusing on incremental improvement, you can reduce the pressure and set yourself up for success.
4. Be Prepared for Law Schools’ Reactions – Understand that some law schools will see your retake and consider it as part of your application. Law schools generally understand that test-taking is stressful and that many students retake the LSAT to improve their scores. However, some schools may view multiple LSAT attempts differently. Be sure to check the policies of the schools you’re interested in to understand how they view retakes and whether they average scores or consider the highest score.
5. Take Care of Your Mental Health – Retaking the LSAT can be mentally and emotionally taxing. It’s important to prioritize your well-being throughout the process. Don’t let the pressure of preparing for the retake consume you. Make sure to balance your study time with breaks, self-care, and activities that help you relax and de-stress. A healthy mindset is critical for performing well on the retake.

Exploring Other Options If a Retake Isn’t Right for You

If you’ve decided that a retake isn’t the right option, or if you don’t have the time or resources to prepare for another round of testing, there are other ways to strengthen your law school application. Consider these alternatives:

1. Consider Law Schools with Flexible Admissions – Some law schools have more flexible admissions criteria or offer programs for students with lower LSAT scores. You might want to explore schools with a more holistic admissions process, which takes into account your entire application package, including your undergraduate GPA, work experience, extracurricular activities, and personal statement.
2. Explore Law Schools with a Different Focus – There are many law schools with varying specialties, and some schools may be more lenient with their LSAT score requirements if your other credentials are strong. Research schools that offer unique programs or specialties in the areas of law you’re most interested in.
3. Consider a Gap Year or Alternative Pathways – If law school isn’t immediately in your future, you might consider taking a gap year to build more experience and strengthen your application. You can gain relevant work experience, pursue internships, or get involved in community service or leadership roles that will enhance your resume and improve your candidacy for the next admissions cycle.
4. Explore Dual Degree Programs – Some law schools offer dual degree programs, where you can pursue another graduate degree alongside your law degree. These programs may have more flexibility in their admissions criteria, and a combination of degrees can open additional career pathways in the legal field.

Moving Forward with Confidence

Ultimately, the path to law school is not a straight line, and the LSAT score is just one piece of the puzzle. Regardless of the outcome, the key is to remain focused on your long-term goals. If you’re satisfied with your score, move forward with your application and take the next steps toward your legal career. If a retake is in your future, use the experience as an opportunity to grow and improve.

Whether you need to adjust your strategy or move forward with your current score, remember that persistence, resilience, and a clear focus on your goals will guide you through this process. Law school is within reach, and no matter what, you’re one step closer to achieving your dream.

Final Thoughts: Staying Focused on the Bigger Picture

The LSAT is a significant milestone in your journey to law school, but it is just one piece of the larger puzzle. Whether you’re waiting for your scores, preparing for a potential retake, or celebrating your success, remember that many factors contribute to a successful law school application. Your score is important, but so are your statement, letters of recommendation, extracurricular activities, and the unique perspective you bring to the table.

As you navigate through the process of waiting for your LSAT score or preparing for a retake, it’s essential to maintain a balanced perspective. Keep in mind that every test-taker’s journey is different. Some people may need more time to prepare, others may achieve their ideal score on their first try, and some may find that a retake is the key to unlocking their best possible result. Regardless of your path, the most important thing is to stay focused on your goals and keep moving forward with determination.

If you are satisfied with your LSAT score, celebrate your accomplishment and turn your attention to finalizing your application. This is an exciting step toward realizing your law school dreams, and you should feel proud of your hard work.

On the other hand, if your score didn’t meet your expectations, don’t view it as a failure. Instead, use it as an opportunity for growth and improvement. A retake is a chance to refine your skills, perfect your test-taking strategies, and further hone your critical thinking abilities. Remember, many successful law school applicants have taken the LSAT multiple times, and your journey is no less valuable for having to retake it.

Above all, stay positive and keep your perspective. The waiting period can be tough, but how you manage this time can set the stage for your next steps. Whether you are preparing for a retake or moving forward with your application, take the time to refine every part of your law school journey. Continue to work on your skills, stay organized, and take care of yourself.

In the end, the LSAT is just one part of your larger law school journey. Whether your score is what you hoped for or a little lower than expected, there are always options for improvement and growth. Stay focused on the bigger picture and trust that your hard work, persistence, and passion for law will guide you toward success, no matter the outcome. The path to law school is long, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll get there—and when you do, you’ll be ready for everything it takes to thrive in the legal world.