Retaking LSAT in January but applying prior. Does it matter when I apply?

[czalla]

I am going to retake the lsat in January but am going to apply prior to my retake and have the schools wait until the January score is released to review my application. Because they won't review the application until the score is released, does it matter if I submit my applications in November compared to January, as long as my application gets processed by the time my score is released? Or will I still be closer to the top of the pile of applications if I submit in November vs January even though I ask them to review after January score?

just trying to figure out if there would still be an advantage to applying earlier even though they'll review my application around end of January

Thank you!

[Luke Haqq]

Hi czalla!

It certainly couldn't hurt and could potentially help your application if you submitted in November, even though you're asking schools to wait until the January scores are released.

A school will likely be able to see the date when you submitted your application. And submitting earlier rather than later in an application cycle is a great way to convey that you're prepared enough to be able to do so. It shows that you've given forethought to the applications, and that you're excited to apply to law school. Those are benefits that you could potentially reap by submitting earlier--even if they don't review it immediately, they'll see overall that you were organized and deliberate.

Perhaps one of the only reasons not to apply early is if your applications wouldn't be ready and well-polished at this point. If, for example, submitting now meant rushing through a personal statement, then that could be a great reason to wait--it'd be much better to submit when you are ready with your most compelling statement.