If you’re thinking about going to graduate school, you might be asking yourself, “Should I take the GRE and the LSAT?” This is a common question among open-minded students - in particular, those who are considering law school alongside graduate programs in public policy, business, or international relations. Although the decision to take both exams might be intimidating, it could be a strategic decision based on your academic and career plans. Although the decision to take both exams might be intimidating, it could be a strategic decision based on your academic and career plans.
The LSAT has traditionally been the nation’s principal law school admissions test, assessing logical reasoning, analytical thinking, and reading comprehension. Recently, however, law schools in growing numbers have been accepting the GRE in place of the LSAT as they have recognized its widespread use and their desire to attract a more diverse pool of applicants. This shift has left a lot of students wondering: Should I take the GRE and LSAT? — and especially so if they’re contemplating a joint degree program, like JD/MPA or JD/MBA.
If you take both tests, it can open a lot of doors for you. For example, if you’re unsure whether you want to go to law school or go to grad school in another field having both scores on your record frees you up to apply to a wider range of programs and doesn’t shut any doors. Some elite law schools now take either exam and having both scores can position you as an applicant who can adapt to different exams.
But the decision isn’t just strategic — it’s also practical. Each test needs to be prepared separately. The LSAT is heavily weighted on logical reasoning and arguments, while the GRE horns in on an altogether broader set of quantitative and verbal skills. Preparing for both tests at the same time is time-consuming, requires discipline, and is expensive. So before you choose, think about how well your strengths match up with each test and how much time you can devote to preparation.
Another reason to think about taking both is that you’re not positive which exam is going to give the more favorable score. Several students do much better on one test than the other. When you take both, you have a choice as to which score you submit – depending on the program’s preferences, you can go with the score you feel does the most to prove your abilities.
In conclusion, the answer to “Should I take the GRE and LSAT”? depends on your long-term objectives. If you are attracted to interdisciplinary programs or want the freedom to leave your academic options open, it could be a better investment to take both exams. However, it is important to balance the effort that making the relationship work might entail against the possible benefits. Honesty about your desires and abilities will guide this crucial decision.
Henry classen is the author of this article. To know about Master of Legal Studies (MLS) please visit our website: lsac.org