<p>how much does the LSAT weight in LS admissions (specifically for top law schools)? i've heard numbers all over the place, ranging from high 40%, 50%, up to 70%, and also "can save a bad GPA."</p>
<p>Based on the admissions index calculation information provided by LSAC, most law schools weight the GPA about 75% to 85%, and GPA counts for the other 15% to 25%. Another way to look at it is that each LSAT point (about 1 question!) counts roughly the same as 0.1 GPA points.</p>
<p>However, keep in mind that "numbers" (GPA+LSAT) are probably only about 80% of the total application, so the TOTAL value of the LSAT, while still very high, is probably more like 60-70%. </p>
<p>And yes, it certainly can save a bad GPA, at least outside of the very best schools.</p>
<p>"However, keep in mind that "numbers" (GPA+LSAT) are probably only about 80% of the total application"</p>
<p>i was under the impression from this board that besides GPA and LSAT, there isn't anything else that matters or would make a difference. 20% is pretty big... what other factors make up this 20%?</p>
<p>First, it's important to keep in mind that not every LS does things the same way. What helps at one may not at another. But here are some of the things that MIGHT matter--especially for those whose #s give them a 40-60% "shot" at a school (based on the LSAC calculator):
ethnicity--URMs get a boost;
geography--many publics and some privates give a preference to locals; other LSs, especially those on the "brink" of going national, will give a preference to applicants from outside the region they traditionally draw from;
at religiously-affiliated LSs, evidence of strong support for that religion's beliefs, e.g., you're a Mormon who tithes you are a leader in your ward, applying to Brigham Young; you are leader in the Right to Life movement, applying to Notre Dame, etc.
work experience--the impact varies a lot among LSs, and I personally think the wrong kind of WE can hurt your chances;
personal statement--it does make a difference, especially for those in the middle group;
recommendations, especially academic recs;
community/public service: spending a couple of years in the Peace Corps, Teach for America, VISTA or similar organizations can help; dedication to a cause for a number of years can too;
military service;
outstanding extracurriculars--you were student body prez at Stanford or UWisconsin-Madison; quarterback for Notre Dame's football team; editor in chief of the Harvard Crimson;
previous career that will give you a unique prospective in LS--cops; parole officers, social workers who've done legally-related work, etc.
Overcoming genuine adversity--you are the child of migrant workers who can't read or write, you grew up in foster care,etc.
genuinely outstanding accomplishment--you wrote a best seller; received the Congressional Medal of Honor; built a multimillion dollar business; played pro baseball in the major leagues; won the Miss America pageant; are an Olympic athlete, etc.
a history of disciplinary action or legal problems can hurt.</p>
<p>wow thanks jonri. you mentioned a lot of info that i haven't seen on this forum before!</p>
<p>Yup, good info from Jonri. </p>
<p>As noted, seemingly irrelevant stuff like playing Division-I sports or doing something else unusual can often be very helpful. If you look at grids for even top schools, there are usually some aberrant admits.</p>