Law school test options compared: JD-Next only, LSAT only, or both
Last checked October 20, 2026 · Sources: JD-Next’s pre-law advisor page and school FAQ; ABA variance notices; LSAT fee from LSAC as on our JD-Next vs LSAT page. JD-Next is run by Aspen Publishing, a UWorld company.
JD-Next is a single program, so there are no competing JD-Next courses to compare. The real decision is which route to law school fits you: JD-Next on its own (accepted at 60+ schools with an ABA variance), the LSAT on its own (accepted everywhere), or both. This page compares those routes on acceptance, cost, time and risk; our JD-Next vs LSAT page goes deeper on the two tests themselves.
The routes at a glance
| Route | Accepted by | Typical cost | Time | Main risk |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| JD-Next only | Schools with an ABA variance (60+), and some others under Interpretation 503-3 | $399-$499 including the course, exam and 3 score reports | 8-week course plus the exam; scores about 3-4 weeks later | A school you later want may not accept it |
| LSAT only | Every ABA-accredited school | $253 registration, plus any prep | Several test dates a year; prep often takes months | None on acceptance; the score is reported to the ABA |
| LSAT plus JD-Next | Every school; JD-Next adds a supporting score | $253 + $399-$499 | Both timelines | Schools see your LSAT, which usually counts for more |
| GRE | 130+ ABA-accredited schools, including every T14 (per ETS) | $249 (ETS) | Year-round, at home or a test center | Not every school accepts it; check each |
From JD-Next’s pages, the ABA’s notices, and ETS’s law school page for LSAT and GRE figures, checked October 2026.
Which route fits you
- JD-Next only suits you if every school on your list accepts it, you’d rather learn real law-school skills than drill a timed test, and you’re applying soon; the next course starts December 7, 2026.
- LSAT only suits you if any school on your list doesn’t accept JD-Next, or you’re aiming at the most selective schools.
- LSAT plus JD-Next suits you if you want a head start on 1L contracts and a second data point, but remember schools will see your LSAT.
- The GRE suits broad applications too: ETS says 130+ ABA-accredited schools accept it, including every T14, and you can test year-round. See JD-Next vs GRE.
How to decide in four steps
List every school you'll apply to and check each admissions page for JD-Next, LSAT and GRE policies.
If even one school requires the LSAT, plan for the LSAT.
Compare deadlines with JD-Next's session dates and the LSAT test dates you could make.
Weigh $399-$499 with a built-in course against $253 plus any LSAT prep you'd buy.
Go deeper
Acceptance, cost, format, score targets and which to take.
→130+ schools and year-round testing against a course-based exam.
→When it makes sense, and when it doesn't.
→Variances, the 503-3 route and what schools expect.
→Session dates, prices and what's included.
→Ranked LSAT courses, if the LSAT is your route.
→Common questions about law school test options
Are there other JD-Next courses to compare?
No. JD-Next is one program run by Aspen Publishing; the choice is between JD-Next, the LSAT, or both.
Can I take both JD-Next and the LSAT?
Yes. If you take the LSAT, schools will see that score as well as your JD-Next score.
Which route is cheaper?
JD-Next costs $399-$499 including its course and three score reports; LSAT registration is $253, before any prep you buy.
Can I get into a top school with JD-Next?
Usually not on its own: most of the most selective schools aren’t on the JD-Next variance list, so take the LSAT if they’re on yours.
MockTestPrep is independent and is not affiliated with JD-Next, Aspen Publishing, LSAC or the ABA.