The Uniform Bar Exam (UBE), prepared by NCBE, is used by most U.S. jurisdictions. It combines the MBE, MEE and MPT, and the score is portable to other UBE jurisdictions. Starting July 2026, NCBE began rolling out the NextGen bar exam, which will eventually replace it.
Start with our general bar exam guide, then practice MBE subjects on the free UBE practice test.
Key takeaways
- A two-day exam: MBE (50%), MEE (30%) and MPT (20%).
- Scored out of 400. Jurisdictions require 260–270.
- NextGen launched in 10 jurisdictions in July 2026, scored on a 500–750 scale.
- California and Florida aren’t UBE jurisdictions.
USA Uniform Bar Exam: Quick Facts
- Developed by
- NCBE
- Components
- MBE, MEE, MPT
- Score scale
- 400 (legacy UBE)
- Passing
- 260–270, by jurisdiction
- NextGen
- Began July 2026
UBE Passing Scores by State (Examples)
| Score | Examples |
|---|---|
| 260 | Many jurisdictions, e.g. Minnesota, Missouri, New Mexico |
| 266 | New York, Illinois, New Jersey, Pennsylvania |
| 270 | Texas, Alaska |
Good to know
Minimum scores and transfer windows change. Always confirm with the jurisdiction’s board of bar examiners.
NextGen Bar Exam
The NextGen exam blends knowledge and skills in integrated question sets, with fewer subjects and more practical tasks. Scores run from 500 to 750, and NCBE recommends a passing score of about 610–620. States are adopting it on different timelines. New York and Texas plan to start in July 2028.
More on NextGen Bar Exam →Free practice test
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Go to the USA Uniform Bar Exam practice test →USA Uniform Bar Exam FAQs
Does Washington, DC use the Uniform Bar Exam?
Yes. The District of Columbia is a UBE jurisdiction and accepts transferred UBE scores. Check the DC Court of Appeals Committee on Admissions for the current minimum score and time limits.
Full answer →What is a passing UBE score?
Between 260 and 270 out of 400, depending on the jurisdiction.
Full answer →What states have the same bar exam?
Most of them. About 40 U.S. jurisdictions use the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE), so the same exam and a portable score work across them. California, Florida and a few other states still write their own exams.
Full answer →Is there a universal bar exam?
Not nationally. The closest is the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE), written by NCBE and used by most U.S. jurisdictions. Its replacement, the NextGen bar exam, began in July 2026 and is being adopted state by state.
Full answer →Can I transfer my UBE score?
Yes, to other UBE jurisdictions within each one’s time limit (often 2–5 years), plus any local law component.
Full answer →Which states don’t use the UBE?
California, Florida and several others give their own exams. Check NCBE’s current list.
Full answer →What is the NextGen bar exam?
NCBE’s new bar exam, first given in July 2026, which will replace the UBE as jurisdictions adopt it.
Full answer →Official sources
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.