California

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California has announced that it intends to administer the NextGen UBE in July 2028. Visit https://www.ncbex.org/exams/nextgen to learn more about the new exam.

California requires the following NCBE exams: MBE and MPRE. Visit Official NCBE Study Aids to purchase study aids to help prepare for California exams. 

Bar Admission Agency
Bar Exam Eligibility, Deadlines, and Fees
ABA-Approved Law School J.D. Required
No
Details
Foreign Law Graduate Eligibility
Yes
Details
Bar Exam Application Filing Deadlines
Details

April 1

June 1

Nov. 1

Jan. 1

Bar Exam Application Filing Fees
Details
Score Portability
Accepts Legacy UBE Score
No
Accepts NextGen UBE Score
No
Jurisdiction-Specific Requirement
No
Accepts Transferred MBE Scores
No
Character & Fitness Investigations
This jurisdiction does not use NCBE's character and fitness services; please contact California for filing instructions.
MPRE Requirements
MPRE Required
Yes
MPRE Minimum Passing Score
86
MPRE Score Time Parameters
Details
Admission on Motion
Rules Provide for Admission on Motion
No
Bar Exam
NextGen UBE
Yes
Date First Administration
Minimum Passing Score
TBA
Legacy UBE
No
Jurisdiction-Drafted Exam
Yes
Details
Minimum Passing Score
1390
Details

Disclaimer

Since jurisdiction rules and policies change, NCBE strongly advises consulting the jurisdiction's bar admission agency directly for the most current information.