LSAT vs. GRE: Which Test Is Right for You

Trying to decide between the LSAT and GRE for law school admissions? You’re in the right place.

The LSAT remains the primary test for law school admissions, although research shows the GRE usage and acceptance have increased steadily in recent years.

As someone who has reviewed both exams and seen how they play out in the admissions process, I can tell you they feel very different in format, pacing, and skill focus. In this breakdown, I’ll cover the key differences so you can make an informed choice that supports your path to law school.

Key Takeaways

• LSAT: Law-focused, no math, heavy on logical reasoning and reading comprehension.
• GRE: Broader skills, including math, is accepted by many but not all law schools.
• 2025 LSAT Changes: Logic games removed, more logical reasoning.
• Scores: LSAT 120–180, GRE section scores 130–170, writing 0–6.
• Choice: Base it on strengths, target schools, and long-term goals.

Exam Highlights: What to Know

The LSAT is designed for law school admissions. It tests logical reasoning and reading comprehension through two Logical Reasoning sections, one Reading Comprehension section, plus an unscored writing sample. Nearly every law school accepts LSAT scores, making it a reliable choice for applicants focused solely on legal studies.

The GRE General Test is accepted for many graduate programs, and some law schools also consider it for admissions. It measures verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, and analytical writing. While many law schools accept the GRE, it is not universal, so applicants must confirm whether their target schools include it in the admissions process.

Comparison Table

Law School Acceptance in 2025

More than 90 ABA-accredited law schools now accept the GRE, including competitive options like Harvard Law School, Yale Law School, University of Virginia School of Law, University of California, Los Angeles School of Law, and University of Texas at Austin School of Law. Many use it to widen their applicant pool, but LSAT scores remain the primary standard.

Some schools require all scores from any test you have taken, while others let you choose. Always check each school’s admissions policy before committing to one exam.

GRE Scores vs. LSAT Scores

LSAT Scores:

• Scale: 120–180
• Even small jumps can change admissions results and scholarship offers
• Higher scores improve chances at competitive law universities

GRE Scores:

• Verbal Reasoning: 130–170 — reading, vocabulary, and critical thinking
• Quantitative Reasoning: 130–170 — data analysis, algebra, geometry
• Analytical Writing: 0–6 — scored essays on argument analysis and issue response
• Some schools convert GRE scores to LSAT equivalents to compare applicants

Most law schools still prefer LSAT scores because they are tied to admissions rankings, but the GRE can be used if your target schools accept it.

LSAT vs. GRE Format

Reading and Verbal

• LSAT: One scored Reading Comprehension section with dense, argument-based passages. Questions test analytical reading and the ability to evaluate reasoning.
• GRE: Two Verbal Reasoning sections with shorter passages, sentence equivalence, and text completion. Test vocabulary in context and critical reading.

Reasoning and Logic

• LSAT: Two Logical Reasoning sections that assess argument analysis, flaw detection, and deductive reasoning.
• GRE: Verbal sections include some reasoning questions, but logic is less emphasized than in the LSAT.

Math

• LSAT: No math component.
• GRE: Two Quantitative Reasoning sections covering algebra, geometry, arithmetic, and data analysis.

Writing

• LSAT: One unscored Argumentative Writing task, completed online within eight days of the multiple-choice sections.
• GRE: One scored Analytical Writing essay (“Analyze an Issue”) worth 0–6 points.

Key Difference: The LSAT is reasoning-heavy with no math component, designed for law school admissions. The GRE tests both verbal and quantitative skills, making it broader for graduate and law school options.

LSAT vs. GRE Difficulty

In my reviews, students who like focusing on one type of skill during a test tend to prefer the LSAT, while those comfortable switching between math, reading, and writing often do better on the GRE.

• LSAT: Challenging for those who struggle with logical reasoning and reading dense passages under time pressure
• GRE: Harder for students who are less confident in math or those who have not practiced quantitative reasoning in years

LSAT timing is tighter, while the GRE requires switching between different skill sets.

Which Test Is Right for You

Both the GRE and LSAT can lead to law school admissions, but the best choice depends on your individual strengths, admissions process requirements, and long-term goals.

• Choose LSAT: If you want maximum law school options, excel in logical reasoning, analytical reasoning, and reading comprehension, and prefer no math section.
• Choose GRE: If you’re applying to multiple graduate programs, have strong quantitative reasoning and analytical writing skills, or your schools accept the GRE for admissions.

💡 Pro Tip: I’ve found that taking a single timed section of each exam often reveals which one feels more natural, and the choice can become clear within minutes.

Prep Tips That Work for Both

• Use full-length practice tests that match your chosen exam’s format and timing.
• Review mistakes in detail to find patterns in your weaknesses
• Build endurance with timed practice so pacing becomes second nature
• Keep a consistent study schedule over several weeks or months instead of cramming

My Final Verdict

If law school is your only goal, take the LSAT. If you want flexibility for graduate schools or dual degree programs, the GRE offers a wider range of skills and scheduling options. Always align your choice with your strengths, the school’s acceptance policies, and the skills each test measures. Take the next step in your career, make your choice, and go after it with confidence.

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