The March LSAT has been cancelled. All March registrants will be automatically registered for the April 25 test in the community where they were registered for the March test, unless they request another action. Keep in mind that there is still much uncertainty about test availability and the need for social distancing by then, so nothing is guaranteed.
In an effort to accommodate students, LSAC has announced the following: “Any candidate who registered for the March 2020 or April 2020 LSAT, and who has a canceled score from a previous LSAT, will now have the opportunity to review their canceled score and restore that canceled score to their record if they choose.” This is aimed primarily at current cycle applicants without an on-the-record LSAT score who wouldn’t otherwise have a score to submit to law schools. It might also benefit those who have a recorded score but were hoping to boost it with a retake. The idea is that you’ll have a chance to see your canceled score and decide whether to revive it so that you can apply this cycle with that score. Applicants affected by this policy will receive an email from LSAC with their canceled score(s) and directions to restore that score if they desire. This is an important decision that should be made in consultation with your advisor and any other people who are supporting your application to law school. We do not recommend asking law schools if you should take this option.
Every school in the country is dealing with this crisis, including law schools. They will know that you had a tough adjustment to make. Remember that the admissions process is never just a numbers game, though. Even though the LSAT and GPA weigh heavily in decision-making, admissions committees really do engage in holistic reviews of applications. They will consider all the many factors that have shaped applicants and their experiences, perspectives, and so on. Without question, the pandemic and the challenges it is presenting to all of us will play a role in the admissions process from here on out.
No. Law school admissions committees are looking at the whole picture, not just one grade or set of grades. You will have other semesters that factor into this semester as well. What’s more, schools will welcome addenda explaining anomalies in your academic record. A brief explanation of the circumstances will help with concerns they might have. This is true whether you’re applying this year or several years from now with perhaps an odd-looking Spring 2020. Remember, every single college student in the US is experiencing this right now, so you are not alone if you struggle with a class or need to make use of an alternative grade or two.
Please note that you should only make the decision to convert your grades in consultation with your academic advisor.
You may have to be creative. There is a legal need in the midst of this crisis, and some law firms may be looking for help. Study abroad may not be an option, but what did you hope the experience would provide you that would be reflected on your application? How can you seek out similar experiences? It may simply be that you need to assume these opportunities are lost and focus on the quality of the rest of your application. Touch base with your references or see what you can do to reflect on this experience in your personal statement.
Make use of the same resources that you are using now for your classes. Consider asking if you can arrange a Zoom meeting with some current students or inquire if they plan to have virtual tours available. One thing you should consider right now is how law schools are treating their current students. Although this crisis has been difficult on us all, it is an excellent opportunity to see in real time how schools value their students (and what the student experience is like).
If you are still struggling with a decision and visiting the school is a major factor for you, it may be time to consider a gap year. You should not make a decision under duress, but these are extenuating circumstance. Some time to recover may be your best solution. Talk to your advisor and those whose opinions you trust.
You may have to be creative. There is a legal need in the midst of this crisis, and some law firms may be looking for help. Study abroad may not be an option, but what did you hope the experience would provide you that would be reflected on your application? How can you seek out similar experiences? It may simply be that you need to assume these opportunities are lost and focus on the quality of the rest of your application. Touch base with your references or see what you can do to reflect on this experience in your personal statement.