When preparing for law school admission, the Law School Admission Test (LSAT) is often considered the most important part. Students ask what the LSAT is out of, or what the average LSAT score or similar questions. Parents want to know the clear answer, and students want to know if they will catch up. At Ivy Learning, we view the LSAT scores for law school as more than numbers. We believe that it is a road map to guide students where they need to go. By understanding the LSAT score range, how the LSAT is scored, students can plan with confidence.
LSAT Score Range Table
Here is a detailed overview of the LSAT score range so you can have a clear idea of the score range.
| Score Range | Category | What It Means for Students |
|---|---|---|
| 120–144 | Below Average | May struggle to secure admission; needs significant improvement. |
| 145–154 | Average | Around the national mean, it opens doors at less selective law schools. |
| 155–164 | Above Average | Competitive at many regional and mid-tier programs. |
| 165–172 | High | Strong candidate for the top 50 schools. |
| 173–180 | Exceptional | In the range for the top 10 schools, the highest level of competitiveness is. |
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What Is The LSAT Score Structure?
The LSAT assesses reading comprehension, analytical reasoning, and logical reasoning. This standardized test comes with a multiple-choice test and a writing sample. The score structure has two main parts.
- Raw Score: The number of questions answered correctly (no penalty for wrong answers).
- Scaled Score: Converted raw score placed on the 120–180 scale.
The scale is designed to ensure fairness to the different versions of the test. So if you want to know what is the LSAT scored out of? The answer is always the same; it is scored out of 180 points.
Many students also ask about the exam length and timing. Understanding how long the LSAT takes can help you build realistic practice sessions and stamina for test day.
What Is a Good LSAT Score?
A good LSAT score depends on the law school you are going to apply to. For several accredited schools, 150-155 is an ideal score range. For more competitive programs, 160-165 is a strong target. If your targeted school is from the Ivy League or the top 14 (T14) schools, then 170 or higher is often required. Students should have in mind that the scores are related to goals. They should be encouraged to balance ambition with realistic planning.
What Is the Highest LSAT Score?
Students often ask what is the max LSAT score. The highest LSAT score of 180 is the epitome of a score. This is the epitome of a score that requires nearly perfection, and only 1% of test-takers have achieved it. The highest LSAT score reflects expertise in analytical and logical reasoning under time pressure. Though a few achieve it but knowing this can give you a perspective.
What Is the Average LSAT Score?
The average LSAT score is around 152, which fluctuates every year. Understanding the average score can help the students measure their performance against their counterparts. Also, this helps educators set a benchmark when guiding students. However, parents need to understand that the average LSAT score may look modest, but even a small improvement in score can significantly change the admission scenario.
What Is LSAT Percentile?
Your LSAT percentile compares your score with the previous three years of test takers. Your score percentile rank refers to the percentage of people with scores lower than yours. You’d be in the 50th percentile with 152, because that’s the median LSAT score. Though the LSAT score range is a common discussion but law schools also consider the percentile. Even a small gain in scores can prove big. This table will help you get the idea about the percentile.
| LSAT Score | Approx. Percentile | Meaning |
|---|---|---|
| 180 | 99.9th | Almost perfect; top applicant pool |
| 170 | 95th | Excellent; strong for top-tier schools |
| 160 | 73rd | Very good; competitive at many schools |
| 152 | 45th | Slightly below average; near national mean |
| 145 | 22nd | Below average; limited options |
| 120 | 0th | Lowest possible score |
These are rough estimates of LSAT score percentiles, as they vary slightly depending on the year.
What Is a Passing Score on the LSAT?
If you are wondering what a passing score on the LSAT is, then there won’t be a clear answer. The Law School Admission Council doesn’t provide any official passing score information, unlike some other tests. That said, scores above 150 are generally required to enter most accredited programs. A score in the 160s or higher puts students in a competitive position for scholarships and admissions.
LSAT Score In Current Time
In the current time (2025), Law Schools rely heavily on LSAT scores, while some schools accept GRE. However, the LSAT score range is still the most trusted measure to assess readiness. Admissions trends show the growing importance of holistic review. But strong LSAT performance is still an important part of admission. At Ivy Learning, we see students aiming higher than ever, with a clear understanding that scores influence both admissions and scholarships.
If you’re planning your LSAT prep strategically, it’s important to be aware of the official test schedule. You can check out the upcoming LSAT test dates 2025 to plan your study timeline effectively.
FAQs about LSAT Score Range
Your most frequently asked questions are answered below.
What is the LSAT out of?
The LSAT is scored out of 180 points.
What is the highest LSAT score?
The highest LSAT score is 180, which requires near perfection from test takers.
What is the average LSAT score?
The average LSAT score is around 152, placing a student at the 50th percentile.
What is a good score on the LSAT?
For many schools, 150+ is OK. For competitive programs, 160+ is strong. For the top 14 schools, 170+ is often necessary.
What is a passing score on the LSAT?
There isn’t any official information about the passing score from LSAC. However, most schools expect at least 150 or higher.
What is the max LSAT score?
The maximum LSAT score is 180.
Bottom Line
The LSAT score range determines the law school futures. The lowest score of 120, and the maximum score is 180, but each point matters. For some, the goal may be reaching the average score of 152, while some may aim for 170 or higher. When it comes to LSAT test prep, students should align their goals with the admission data. If you want to improve your percentile probability, then a practice test can be a great way to improve your score gradually.
At Ivy Learning, we remind students that while the LSAT is important, it is only one part of the journey toward law school success.
