The Bar Exam: What Is It and How To Prepare For It?
The bar exam is a qualifying test that law degree holders take to be able to practice law in a given jurisdiction.
A bar exam is usually made up of a series of different tests comprising multiple-choice sets and essay questions. However, bar exams differ across states because each state has its own bar regulatory board. It would be a good tip to take the bar exam in a place where you would most likely work or practice law. The best way to check what kinds of tests your state bar association would require is to check out their website. Also ask for information from your law school’s career office if possible.
Other exams
The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) is a set of standardized tests that should be taken across all states except for Maryland, Wisconsin, Puerto Rico, and Washington. Some states require lawyer hopefuls to undergo character evaluation before becoming licensed attorneys-at-law.
Preparing for the bar exam
Bar exam review schools
One option that you can look into to prepare for the bar exam is to attend a bar exam review school. The bar is not like a typical final exam that one can study for on his or her own. Instead, reviewing for the bar requires intensive and guided study on the various subjects of law. Some recommend that reviewing for the bar should be treated as a full-time job to achieve the best results. Bar review schools may also provide supplements and exercise based on the questions from the previous year’s bar exam.
Preparing your logistics
This applies especially to those who would be taking the bar exam in a different state. Book your flight or passage ahead of time and make sure you have adequate board and lodging. Map out your transportation as well and anticipate any disturbances such as traffic and the size of the crowd during the bar exam.
Photo Credit : Philip Larson
