Short answer
Most states require a JD from an ABA-approved law school plus a character and fitness review. A few states, such as California, Vermont, Virginia and Washington, allow law office study, and some admit foreign-educated lawyers.
USA Bar Exam: Quick Facts
- Administered by
- State bar admission boards (most exam content written by NCBE)
- Length (UBE)
- 2 days, about 12 hours of testing
- Components
- MBE (200 questions) · MEE (6 essays) · MPT (2 tasks)
- Scoring
- 400-point scale; most UBE states require 260–270
- When
- Last Tuesday–Wednesday of February and July
- Study time
- 400–600 hours (8–10 weeks full-time)
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Disclaimer: This guide is for general information and is not legal advice. Bar admission rules vary by jurisdiction. Always confirm dates, fees and requirements with your state’s bar admission authority. Read our editorial policy.