Bar Exam Information

Bar exams are typically comprised of three possible components: a performance test, an essay test, and a multiple-choice test. These components may be produced by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) or regionally by the relevant jurisdiction. 

Many jurisdictions (including Ohio) have adopted the Uniform Bar Examination (UBE) (or certain elements thereof), which is coordinated by NCBE and includes the components described in the table below. The UBE is uniformly administered, graded, and scored and results in a portable score that can be transferred to other UBE jurisdictions. Jurisdictions that use the UBE may also require applicants to complete certain jurisdiction-specific components.

Each jurisdiction using the UBE sets its own minimum passing score required to pass the UBE in that jurisdiction. When looking to transfer their UBE score to another jurisdiction, candidates must satisfy the minimum passing score of the relevant jurisdiction. Here is a sample of minimum passing scores in certain jurisdictions. Minimum passing scores for all relevant jurisdictions can be found on the NCBE website.

Every course offered at Cincinnati Law helps to prepare our students for the practice of law. While we encourage students to take advantage of the numerous course offerings available at Cincinnati Law, certain courses, such as the ones listed below, are more directly aligned to the skills and content tested on the UBE. 

Students preparing for the bar exam take a commercial bar review course to assist with their preparation. The College of Law does not endorse any vendor, but is able to share alumni experiences, data, and feedback.

In addition to passing the bar exam itself, there are often many other requirements that candidates must satisfy prior to licensure (such as passing the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE), completing relevant applications, and clearing any character and fitness standards and processes). These requirements vary by jurisdiction, and it is ultimately each candidate’s responsibility to understand and complete such requirements in a correct and timely manner.

For more information about the bar exam, bar admission, and related topics, refer to the NCBE website and the American Bar Association website. In particular, the NCBE’s Comprehensive Guide to Bar Admission Requirements contains helpful information about bar exams and bar admission in Ohio and other jurisdictions.

For more information specific to bar admission in Ohio, refer to the Supreme Court of Ohio Office of Bar Admissions website, which includes information about requirements for admission, admission applications, important dates, and the Ohio bar exam (including sample essay questions and answers from past exams).

The NCBE is in the process of developing a redesigned bar exam (called “NextGen”), which will be administered in a limited number of jurisdictions starting in July 2026. According to the NCBE, “[T]he NextGen bar exam will test a broad range of foundational lawyering skills, utilizing a focused set of clearly identified fundamental legal concepts and principles needed in today’s practice of law.”

At this time, information about the NextGen bar exam remains limited. While Ohio has not yet announced its plans regarding the adoption of the NextGen bar exam, you can find up-to-date information about which jurisdictions have announced such plans on the relevant NCBE website. We will continue to monitor for updates and will make any necessary changes, as appropriate.