CA Bar Exam

California Bar Exam Information

Learn about the California Bar Exam format, subjects tested, dates, and requirements.

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Dates, Cost & Location

Exam Type: 2-day exam
Dates:July 29-30, 2025
Exam fee: $677
Attorney exam fee: $983

The California Bar Exam is a 2-day exam. The written portion of the exam (essay questions and Performance Test) is typically administered on the first day, with three essay questions in the morning session and two essay questions as well as the Performance Test in the afternoon session. The multiple-choice portion is typically administered on the second day, with 100 questions in the morning and 100 questions in the afternoon.

What subjects will you be tested on?

Business Associations, Civil Procedure, Community Property, Constitutional Law, Contracts, Criminal Law and Procedure, Evidence, Professional Responsibility, Real Property, Remedies, Torts, Trusts, Wills and Succession.

What’s the minimum score for MPRE?

A scaled score of 86 on the MPRE is required for admission, there is no time limit for when the MPRE must be taken.

Need to sign up for MPRE? Learn about registration, testing policies, and more on our MPRE Registration Guide.

How is the exam scored?

The MBE is weighted 50% of total score and the written portion combine to account for 50% of the total score to determine if the applicant has achieved a minimum passing score (1,390 on a 2,000 point scale is required based on the combined scores).

When are the results released?

The results are released about 12-16 weeks after the exam. Results for the February exam are usually posted in May, and results for the July exam are posted in November.

Can I transfer my MBE scores from another jurisdiction?

California does not accept MBE scores from other jurisdictions.

What about reciprocity across states?

California does not provide for admission on motion; examination is required of all applicants.

What are the application deadlines and fees?

Please visit the State Bar of California website for details on application deadlines and fees, as well as for more information on other topics.

Contact information

Web: www.calbar.ca.gov/Admissions
Tel: (213) 765-1500 in Los Angeles, (415) 538-2300 in San Francisco

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