I got in at BU with 25k a year and free housing (though I have to be an RA), so total CoA ~76k . I think I want to do government work, probably criminal law, and want to live in either Boston or NYC after graduating. I have a 3.79 (though that’ll probably drop a bit after this semester) and a 167 LSAT. I notice a lot of ominous mutterings on TLS about job prospects outside the T14, and I am something of a prestige whore by inclination, but am I just being dumb in thinking about re-taking the LSAT and trying again next cycle? I’d be in grad school on a fellowship for that year. Thanks in advance everyone.
I’d take BU at 75k CoA for NYC/Boston pretty much every time over the T14 unless the T14 was 125k CoA or less.
It would probably take a 168 at bare minimum to have a shot at the T14, though more likely you’d need a 170+. I’m thinking that only a 172+ would actually be worth it because in my opinion you would need a large scholarship to counter the BU offer.
How do you feel about getting a 172+? How do you feel about waiting a year? How likely would you be to get a similar offer from BU next year if you didn’t improve?
If you can get a 170+, then retake. But BU with 75k is a fine option. BU is one of the best non-T14s for biglaw placement, if that’s what you’re shooting for.
I’d have no qualms about waiting a year because I actually really like the grad school program I was accepted into. As for the LSAT, breaking 172 would be possible (I PT’d there a couple of times) but would take a ton of studying and some luck. Hmm, food for thought. Thanks.
Cornell is holding my application, but I seriously doubt they’ll admit me, let alone give me enough money to make it a legitimate option.
Reiterate what everyone has said. You don’t sound too confident on the prospect of getting 172+. Also, not all T14 degrees may help you crack the boston market.