More than 120 law schools now accept the GRE alongside the LSAT — but choosing between them requires understanding key differences in format, scoring, and how admissions committees weigh each test. The LSAT tests logical reasoning and argument analysis, while the GRE includes quantitative reasoning and a broader vocabulary focus. Here is a direct comparison to help you decide.
LSAT Format Overview is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
GRE Format Overview is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Skills Tested is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Scoring Systems is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Test Availability and Retake Policies is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
| Feature | LSAT | GRE |
|---|---|---|
| Scoring Scale | 120–180 | 130–170 per section (260–340 total) |
| Sections | Logical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, Writing | Verbal, Quantitative, Analytical Writing |
| Math Content | None | Yes (Quantitative Reasoning) |
| Test Length | ~3 hours | ~3 hours 45 minutes |
| Annual Administrations | 8 per year | Nearly any day |
| Retake Limits | 3/year, 5/5 years, 7 lifetime | 5 per year, no lifetime limit |
| Accepted By | All ABA law schools | 120+ law schools |
T14 Schools is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Broader Acceptance Trends is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
| School | Accepts GRE? | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Harvard | Yes | Accepts both LSAT and GRE |
| Yale | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| Stanford | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| Columbia | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| Chicago | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| NYU | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| Penn | Yes | Accepts GRE |
| Georgetown | Yes | Accepts GRE |
LSAT Preference in Rankings is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
When the GRE Makes Strategic Sense is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Choose the LSAT If is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.
Choose the GRE If is an important consideration for students navigating this decision. Understanding the nuances helps you make an informed choice that aligns with your goals and circumstances.