LSAT score release dates: how score release works

LSAC releases scores for every administration at 9 a.m. ET on the published score release date, usually about three weeks after the test. You get an email saying scores are available, then log in to your LSAC account to see the number. Two things can hold your score: a missing LSAT Argumentative Writing sample and an account hold.

While you wait, the score converter translates practice raw scores to scaled scores, and the test date planner shows your retake options.

How scores come out

Score release is not rolling. LSAC releases every score from an administration at the same time: 9 a.m. Eastern on the published score release date. You get an email saying scores are available. The email does not contain your score. You log in to your LSAC account (JD Services) to see it.

The wait is roughly three weeks after the test window. That gap covers scoring, verification, and quality checks. Sometimes LSAC posts scores a day or two early. Never plan around that.

Two things that can hold your score

1. Your LSAT Argumentative Writing sample. Your score will not release until you have an approved writing sample on file. First-time test takers must complete it. Do it before your test date if you can. Writing sessions that flag a rule issue go into a manual review queue, and that queue can delay your score.
2. Account holds. An unpaid balance or an unresolved test-day issue can hold the release. Check your account, not your email, for hold notices.

Upcoming score release dates

From LSAC's official 2026-2027 schedule (verified October 12, 2026). Full details for each month live on our LSAT test dates page.

When schools see your score

Law schools receive your score at the same time you do. The one exception is LSAT Score Preview. If you buy Score Preview, schools only see the score after you choose to keep it, or after the preview window closes without a cancellation.

Score Preview costs $46 if you buy it before the first test day of your administration and $87 after. It is free with an approved LSAC fee waiver. With Score Preview you get six days after the score is released to you to cancel it. LSAC changes fees, so confirm the current price on their fees page before you buy.

If your score is late

Work through this list before you panic:

• Check your LSAT Argumentative Writing status. Unapproved or missing writing is the most common delay.
• Check for holds on your LSAC account.
• Check your email for an LSAC notice about a delay or a security review of your administration.
• If nothing explains it, contact LSAC directly.

Delays happen after administrations with high volume or test-day irregularities. There is no way to pay for faster release.

How long scores stay reportable

LSAC reports scores from the past five testing years to law schools. A score does not expire from your personal record, but schools will only receive scores inside that window.

Sources

• Score release timing, 9 a.m. ET release, writing-sample requirement, simultaneous release to schools, and Score Preview mechanics: LSAC's official LSAT FAQ. Last verified October 12, 2026.
• Per-administration score release dates: LSAC's official 2026-2027 LSAT dates page. Last verified October 12, 2026.
• Score Preview pricing ($46/$87, free with fee waiver): LSAC's registration/fees pages as reported by university pre-law advising (UMass SBS Pathways). Confirm current pricing on LSAC's fees page; last checked October 12, 2026.

Last updated October 12, 2026