What You Need to Know
If you're gearing up for the California Bar Exam in February 2025 or beyond, you're likely aware that some changes are on the horizon. But don't panic—while the format is evolving, with the right preparation and resources, you'll be more than ready to tackle it successfully.
At BARBRI, we've guided bar exam candidates through the preparation process for over 50 years and have been there through every major change in bar exam administration. This blog will walk you through the key updates to the California Bar Exam, tips for success, and how BARBRI is uniquely positioned to help you ace this milestone.
Major Changes to the California Bar Exam
Let's start with an overview of the major changes coming to the exam.
1. Transition Away from the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE)
California is moving away from using the National Conference of Bar Examiners' (NCBE) multiple-choice questions. Beginning February 2025, the state will use multiple-choice questions developed exclusively by Kaplan Testing Services.
Here’s the good news:
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The subjects covered remain the same—Torts, Property, Contracts, Criminal Law and Procedure, Constitutional Law, Evidence, and Civil Procedure.
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The focus stays on general legal principles, not California-specific rules.
This shift won't upend your bar prep, as the core content remains largely unchanged.
2. Flexible Administration Options
The days of sitting in a massive conference center for the bar exam are over. California will now offer flexible options for taking the test, including remote administration and test-center formats.
This change allows examinees to choose a testing environment that best suits them—whether that's from the comfort of home or a quiet test center.
3. No Substantive Changes to Bar Prep Requirements
While the multiple-choice questions themselves may be from a new source, the preparation process will stay consistent. The newly drafted multiple-choice test questions are not going to substantially modify the training or preparation required to pass the exam.
Additionally, California-focused essays will continue to assess knowledge and legal analysis skills in a way that reflects the practice of law in California, and California Performance Tests (PTs) will still assess lawyering skills in a way that reflects the reality of California practice.
What BARBRI Is Doing to Support You
To ensure you're ready for the new California Bar Exam format, BARBRI is undergoing its own transformation to meet the needs of future test-takers. Here’s what you can expect from us:
1. Updated California Materials
Our expert-curated materials have been updated to reflect the changes to the multiple-choice examination and California’s new approach to testing. You’ll be fully prepared to meet the updated requirements.
2. California-Specific Simulated Exams
We’re creating a California-specific simulated exam and pass predictor to measure your performance against other California test-takers. This ensures you get meaningful insights tailored to the state’s standards.
3. Expert Strategies for the New Format
Our instructors are introducing new strategies to help you excel in the online and test center formats. From time management tips to technical troubleshooting, we’re here to guide you at every step.
4. California Specific Resources and Unlimited Essay Feedback
You'll have access to over 170 released California bar exam essays and 17 released Performance Tests, both with curated and expertly drafted answers and grading material. With these materials, and unlimited essay feedback on essays in the California writing program, your preparation will be comprehensive and adaptable.
Tips to Succeed on the Updated Bar Exam
Adaptability and preparation are key to succeeding on the new bar exam format. Below we've provided some of our key tips and tricks for success on the updated California bar exam.
Remote Bar Exam Pro Tips
Plan Ahead
- Be proactive about potential distractions (e.g., adjust lawn maintenance, pet care, childcare, etc.)
- Minimize others’ internet usage, streaming, on network during exam
Get Familiar
- Check out the FAQ document released by the State Bar of California for the most up to date answers to common questions and concerns.
- Take the mock exam with the computer you plan to use.
Check Your Equipment
- Check minimum system requirements and ensure your computer meets minimums
- Ensure you have reliable internet! If going to a different location, check your internet connection in advance and get the necessary WiFi codes. If possible, examiners recommend using a hardwire connection.
- Applicants may use a whiteboard with a maximum size of 8.5" x 11" but should only bring one eraser. Read more details here.
Light Your Space and Face
- Take exam in well-lit space with lighting or a window in front of you to highlight your face
- Consider a table lamp or ring light
- Turn off bright lights / cover windows that are behind your head
Get Comfortable
- Wear comfortable, layered clothing
- Have a good chair
- Use the restroom
- Adjust monitor brightness to reduce eye strain
Test Center Bar Exam Pro Tips
Arrive Early
- Ensure you arrive at the test center at least half an hour early
Know the Location
- Visit the test center beforehand to familiarize yourself with location and parking situation
Understand the Rules
- Know what you need to bring (e.g., valid photo ID, such as a driver's license, California ID card, or passport in physical form⎯no digital versions or photos on cellphones will be permitted)
- An unmakred bottle of water, no more than 32 ounces, if permitted
- How to handle bathroom breaks
Get Comfortable
- Wear comfortable, layered clothing
- Bring earplugs if allowed
Why Choose BARBRI for Your Bar Exam Preparation?
With unmatched quality of curriculum, developed by some of the world’s top legal experts, engaging lectures and course materials, plus our proven learning methodology, Personalized Study Plan, and the most accurate pass predictor, BARBRI is your ultimate resource for bar exam success.
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Comprehensive Coverage: From California-focused essays to updated multiple-choice prep materials, we’ve got every aspect of the new exam covered.
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Proven Expertise: Our instructors have decades of experience helping students master exam content and strategy.
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Personalized Support: With unlimited essay feedback and California-specific resources, you’ll have the tools to identify and strengthen areas of improvement.
Your Next Steps to Success
The California Bar Exam is evolving, but with the right preparation, so can you. Join the 1.43+ million legal professionals who’ve passed the bar using BARBRI.
Enroll in BARBRI bar prep today and get ready to ace the California bar exam.
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