GRE General vs LSAT: Similarities and Differences

If you are planning to pursue a graduate or law degree, you may have heard of two standardized tests that are commonly used for admission: the GRE General and LSAT. While the GRE General is accepted by most graduate programs, the LSAT is specifically designed for law school admissions. In this article, we will explore the similarities and differences between the two tests to help you choose the right one for your application.

Format and Sections

One of the key differences between the GRE General and LSAT is their format and sections. The GRE General is a computer-based test that consists of three sections: Verbal Reasoning, Quantitative Reasoning, and Analytical Writing. Each section is timed separately, and the test taker can move back and forth between sections during the test. On the other hand, the LSAT is a paper-based test that consists of four sections: Logical Reasoning, Analytical Reasoning, Reading Comprehension, and an unscored Writing Sample. The test taker must complete each section in a designated amount of time, and cannot move back and forth between sections.

Content and Skills Assessed

While both the GRE General and LSAT assess critical thinking skills, they focus on different areas of expertise. The GRE General assesses a test taker’s ability to analyze and evaluate written material, comprehend and use quantitative information, and effectively communicate complex ideas. The LSAT, on the other hand, assesses a test taker’s ability to read and comprehend complex texts, analyze arguments, and draw logical inferences. It also assesses a test taker’s ability to organize and analyze information, and assesses their critical thinking and analytical reasoning skills.

Scoring and Score Range

The GRE General and LSAT use different scoring scales, which can make it difficult to compare scores between the two tests. The GRE General scores range from 130-170 for each section, with a total score range of 260-340. The LSAT scores range from 120-180, with a median score of 150. While both tests provide a percentile rank to compare a test taker’s performance with other test takers, the percentile ranks cannot be directly compared between the two tests.

Which Test to Take?

The decision of which test to take ultimately depends on your academic and career goals. If you are applying to graduate programs, the GRE General is the appropriate test to take. If you are applying to law school, the LSAT is the appropriate test to take. However, some law schools may accept the GRE General as an alternative to the LSAT. If you are unsure which test to take, you should consult with the admissions office of your desired graduate or law school.

In conclusion, the GRE General and LSAT are two standardized tests that assess different skills and abilities. While they share some similarities, they also have significant differences in their format, content, and scoring. When deciding which test to take, it is important to consider your academic and career goals, and consult with the admissions office of your desired graduate or law school.