South Dakota
Since jurisdiction rules and policies change, you are strongly advised to consult the jurisdiction's bar admission agency directly for the most current information. Note that many jurisdictions are making emergency changes to rules, policies, and exam administrations in light of the COVID-19 pandemic. Visit July 2020 Bar Exam: Jurisdiction Information for more information.
The information provided on this page is drawn from the Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements ("Guide"). Links are provided to specific charts in the Guide; each chart is followed by jurisdiction-specific supplemental remarks. Please consult both the chart and its remarks for complete information. NOTE: The Guide is updated on an annual basis, while the website is updated throughout the year. The website supersedes the Guide where the two differ. (Website jurisdiction information last updated Aug 18, 2020.)
UBE Adoption
- UBE Adoption: No
Admission on Transferred UBE Score
- Admission on Transferred UBE Score: No
South Dakota Bar Exam Components
- The Multistate Bar Examination (MBE): Yes
- The Multistate Essay Examination (MEE): Yes
- The Multistate Performance Test (MPT): Yes
- Jurisdiction-Drafted Exam: Yes See Chart 7
MPRE Requirements
- MPRE Required: Yes
- MPRE Minimum Passing Score: 85
- MPRE Score Time Parameters: See Chart 8
- MPRE Score Services
Character and Fitness Investigations
NCBE provides character and fitness services for the following applicant types in South Dakota:
- First Bar Admission (Examinee)
- Attorney
- Foreign-Educated/Foreign-Licensed
Bar Admission Agency
South Dakota Board of Bar Examiners
500 E. Capitol Ave.
Pierre, SD 57501
Phone: (605) 773-4898
Fax: (605) 773-8479
Visit Website
Bar Admission Guide
Information on bar
admission requirements
and directory of state
bar admission agencies