Fall 2026 – Week Nine

COMMUNITY REMINDERS

In-House Clinic Applications Due Sunday, October 25th

Interested in a hands-on legal experience next semester? Applications for Temple Law’s Spring 2027 In-House Clinics are due Sunday, October 25 at midnight.

Clinics allow students to represent real clients, develop practical lawyering skills, and earn academic credit under the supervision of faculty attorneys.

Learn more about the clinics and application process on the Temple Law In-House Clinics website here.

Academic Advising Help Desks

Beginning Monday, October 26th, we will be hosting a series of Academic Advising Help Desks to support you with course selection, planning, and any questions you may have.

The full schedule of dates, times, and locations can be found on the Academic Advising Help Desk Calendar.

No appointment is necessary for drop-in advising. If you would prefer to schedule an individual appointment, you can do so using this link: Schedule an Academic Advising Appointment

January 2027 Graduates – Submit your Graduation Application by Wednesday, November 25th

The Graduation Application is now open for the January 2027 graduating class.

Students who plan to graduate in January 2027 must apply to graduate through the University TUPortal/Self Service Banner system. This application must be completed by Wednesday, November 25, 2026 for all law January 2027 graduates. Students enrolled in dual degree programs will have to submit a separate graduation application for each degree. The graduation application is an easy and fast application to complete, but failing to complete it by the deadline can cause a delay in receiving your diploma.

Please follow the instructions below to apply for graduation.

  • Sign in to TUPortal.
  • Click on the Student Tools tab at the top of the page.
  • Go to the Records section which is located on the right side of the page.
  • Select Apply to Graduate.
  • Confirm that the program listed is correct (should be: Current Program – Juris Doctor)
  • Select a Graduation term – Fall 2026 should be the only option.
  • Review and submit.

You should receive a confirmation email within 24 hours of submitting your application. The email will include information on how your name will appear on the diploma. If you would like to make changes to your legal name, you can follow the instructions outlined in the email and on the Temple University Registrar’s Personal Information Change wepbage.

If you have questions, please do not hesitate to contact Laura Frisby-Selby at lfrisby@temple.edu or Senior Director Walden at walden@temple.edu.

Examplify Information Session Slides

Did you miss the Fall 2026 Exam Information Session? The slides are here. If you have any questions, please contact Senior Director Walden at walden@temple.edu.

EECJ Upper-Level Academic Advising Panel Recording

If you missed our EECJ Upper-Level Academic Advising Panel, you can find the recording here.

Free LinkedIn Headshots & Profile Support

Looking to strengthen your professional presence online? The Temple University Career Center offers free resources to help you make the most of LinkedIn.

  • Free Professional Headshots: Current Temple students can receive a free professional headshot in Mitten Hall, Room 220.
  • LinkedIn Profile Coaching: Meet one-on-one with a Career Coach for guidance on creating, updating, or improving your LinkedIn profile.

To schedule a headshot appointment or meet with a Career Coach, contact the Career Center at 215-204-7981 or make an appointment through Handshake: https://temple.joinhandshake.com/edu.

PCDC Volunteering Interest Poll

Philadelphia Chinatown Development Corporation (“PCDC”) looks forward to working together with APALSA and identifying meaningful ways for APALSA members to engage with PCDC programs. We’re polling interest for volunteering opportunities. Please respond to this form by checking which activity (or activities) appeals to you most.

Mac Users: Hold Off Upgrading to macOS 27 Golden Gate

Apple will release its latest operating system, macOS 27 Golden Gate this fall. At this time, Information Technology Services recommends not installing this upgrade when it becomes available because you may encounter compatibility issues with various applications used at the university.

Once our vendors certify that key applications used in our environment are compatible, we will notify you that it is safe to install this upgrade.

If you use a Mac outside of work, you may also want to confirm that your software is compatible with macOS 27 Golden Gate before upgrading.

Have a question? Please contact the Technology Support Center at tuhelp.temple.edu.

Temple Health Votes Emergency Absentee Volunteers needed November 2nd and 3rd

Interested in civic engagement and health care? Looking for a meaningful way to support patients in exercising their right to vote? Consider becoming a Temple Health Votes Emergency Absentee Volunteer.

Volunteers are needed the Monday and Tuesday of election week, November 2nd and 3rd. As a volunteer, you will help patients complete the emergency absentee voting process at Temple University Hospital, including the Main Campus, Jeanes Campus, Chestnut Hill Hospital, and Temple Women & Families. Opportunities vary and may include working directly with patients or assisting with the transportation of voting paperwork between hospitals and county election offices.

A mandatory training session is required before volunteering. Sign up for a shift through the Owls for Philly section of TUPortal.

For more information, contact Jillian.Jatres@temple.edu.

Volunteer Judges Needed: Temple University Mock Trial November 14th and 15th

Temple University’s Undergraduate Mock Trial is searching for volunteer scoring judges this Fall. The annual Hooter Invitational is on Saturday, November 14th and Sunday, November 15th. Each day has two rounds – a morning and an afternoon round – and you can volunteer for as many or as few as you like. If you or any other legal professional are interested in judging, please email the secretary at rebecca.norton-baker@temple.edu.

UPCOMING EVENTS

Inside Suncor v. Boulder with environmental lawyer Marco Simons – Monday, October 26th at 12PM

Event graphic for “Inside Suncor v. Boulder” with Marco Simons, scheduled for Monday, October 26th, at noon in Klein Hall, K1E; snacks provided. Transcribed Text: INSIDE SUNCOR V. BOULDER w/ Marco Simons Hear the inside story of Boulder’s case against Suncor and ExxonMobil, from the Colorado Supreme Court Victory to the October 2026 SCOTUS argument Monday, October 26th Snacks Provided | Klein Hall, K1E Noon

Marco Simons is one of the attorneys representing the city of Boulder, Colorado in the case Suncor v. Boulder, which went to the Supreme Court on October 5th, 2026. To learn more, visit here.

TELS Annual Fall Picnic – Thursday, October 29th at 12PM

Fall picnic invitation featuring autumn leaves, the title “The Annual Fall Picnic,” and event details for October 29 at 12 PM in the Barrack 3rd Floor Student Lounge. Transcribed Text: TELS INVITES YOU TO THE ANNUAL FALL PICNIC Feat. a Halloween costume contest, treats, activities and more! 29 OCT | 12 PM Barrack 3rd Floor Student Lounge

Join TELS for their Fall Picnic on Thursday, October 29th at 12PM in the Barrack Hall 3rd Floor Lounge. This event is a hosted by TELS but is truly a collaboration with other Temple Law clubs to decompress and enjoy a lunch period amongst friends. There will be a Halloween costume contest, treats, activities, and more!

The Communicators: Draw the Line in Ohio: A Conversation with Josh Rultenberg – Thursday, October 29th at 6PM

Promotional poster featuring Josh Rultenberg and his talk, “Draw the Line in Ohio: The Impact of Gerrymandering,” at Shusterman Hall. Features logos for Temple University Klein College of Media and Communication, Temple University Beasley School of Law, and a QR code for more information Transcribed Text: The Communicators Klein College Alumni Speakers Bureau Draw the Line in Ohio: The Impact of Gerrymandering Josh Rultenberg Emmy-winning journalist, author and political analyst Thursday, Oct. 29 | 6–7:30 P.M. Shusterman Hall Register Now Scan the QR code to learn more and to register.

Thursday, October 29, 2026 6:00 pm – 7:30 pm
Shusterman Hall

Emmy-winning journalist, author, political analyst and former congressional communications director Josh Rultenberg, KLN ’11, brings a unique perspective from both sides of political communication.

Rultenberg will discuss his career in journalism and government as well as his new book, Draw the Line in Ohio: How One State’s Fight for Fair Maps Explains Gerrymandering in America, co-authored with Rory Riley Topping.

Register here. For more information, Scan QR code or click on flyer above.

Change It Up: Seeking Justice Following Different Paths with Zane Memeger – Tuesday, November 3rd at 12PM

Event poster for Temple University Beasley School of Law’s 2026 Edward Ross Lecture, “Change It Up: Seeking Justice Following Different Paths,” featuring headshot of speaker Zane Memeger, event details, and QR code to register. Transcribed Text: Temple University Beasley School of Law The 2026 Edward Ross Lecture in Litigation Change It Up: Seeking Justice Following Different Paths with Zane Memeger The 2026 Ross Lecture will feature remarks by Zane Memeger, executive director of the PA Innocence Project and former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Mr. Memeger will talk about his journey from federal prosecutor to wrongful conviction advocate and thoughts on seeking justice through government, pro bono, and public interest work. Tuesday, November 3, 2026 12:00 PM – 1:00 PM Duane Morris LLP Moot Court Room Scan to Register

The 2026 Edward Ross Lecture in Litigation
Change It Up: Seeking Justice Following Different Paths with Zane Memeger

Tuesday, November 3, 2026
12:00 PM – 1:00 PM
Duane Morris LLP Moot Court Room

Temple University Beasley School of Law presents the 2026 Edward Ross Lecture in Litigation, featuring remarks by Zane Memeger, executive director of the Pennsylvania Innocence Project and former US Attorney for the Eastern District of Pennsylvania. Mr. Memeger will offer reflections on his journey from federal prosecutor to wrongful conviction advocate and his thoughts on seeking justice through government, pro bono, and public interest work.

Register here.

Temple Night Owls Alumni Happy Hour – Friday, November 13th at 5:30 PM

Flyer for the Temple Night Owls Alumni Happy Hour in Philadelphia, featuring two stylized brown owls and event details. Transcribed Text: TEMPLE NIGHT OWLS ALUMNI HAPPY HOUR SPIN PHILADELPHIA 211 S 15TH ST, PHILADELPHIA, PA 19102 November 13, 2026 5:30 - 7PM

Join the Night Owls for our annual Alumni Happy Hour on November 13th starting at 5pm at SPIN Philadelphia! Have a drink, play some ping pong, and connect with current and former evening students. We hope to see everyone there! Please register at this link or by clicking the image above.

PMC Judicial Independence Benefit – Tuesday, November 17th at 5:30 PM

Flyer for the Pennsylvanians for Modern Courts Judicial Independence Benefit on November 17, 2026, featuring Judge Edmund Spaeth Jr., honoree Nicholas Chimicles, Esq., keynote speaker Sarah Koenig, and autumn-leaf decorations. Transcribed Text: PENNSYLVANIANS FOR MODERN COURTS JUDICIAL INDEPENDENCE BENEFIT JOIN US Access to Justice Civic Education Court Reform JUDGE EDMUND SPAETH, JR. HONOREE: NICHOLAS CHIMICLES, ESQ. KEYNOTE SPEAKER SARAH KOENIG Host and co-creator of the award-winning podcast Serial. November 17, 2026 5:30–7 pm Franklin Institute REGISTER AT WWW.PMCONLINE.ORG Inaugural Volunteer Honorees: Judge Gary Glazer Alan Promer, Esq.

ACADEMIC SUCCESS PROGRAMMING

Fall 2026 1L Academic Success Programming Schedule

1L From Midterms to Finals – Improving Your Approach – Monday, November 9th

12 pm in K1E and via Zoom and 5 pm in K1E and via Zoom

Fall 2026 2L/3LE Academic Success Programming Schedule

2L/3LE Building Better Exam Strategies – Thursday, November 19th

12 pm in K2A and via Zoom and 5 pm in K2A and via Zoom

WRITING COMPETITIONS, CONTESTS, SCHOLARSHIPS AND TOURNAMENTS

Scholarship Opportunities and Databank

Information on available scholarships, writing competitions, contests, and tournaments is posted here: Student Post Scholarship Page.  Students seeking additional financial support during law school can also access the AccessLex Scholarship Databank.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES AND TA POSITIONS

Nothing here for now; check back next week!

LAW SCHOOL AND UNIVERSITY POLICIES & RESOURCES

Klein Hall Building Hours & Access

The official hours for Klein Hall are 8 AM to 11 PM daily. Students who need to stay in the building after 11 PM should tell the security officer of their location and produce a student I.D. upon request. The Montgomery Avenue entrance to Klein Hall is locked on the weekend. Students who need weekend access should contact Associate Director Noeleen Urmson at nurmson@temple.edu.

Essential Needs Hub

Need help covering life’s basics? The Essential Needs Hub connects students with resources for food, housing, emergency financial assistance, mental health support, technology access, transportation, and more. Learn more: Temple University Essential Needs Hub

University Support and Reporting Options for Students

Temple University is committed to providing a learning environment free from discrimination, harassment, and retaliation. The University is also committed to helpful students with medical care, preventive services, health resources, counseling, crisis support, group therapy, and mental health resources. Helpful Links:

Disability Resources & Services (DRS)

Students seeking academic accommodations should connect with Disability Resources and Services (DRS). DRS works with students to determine reasonable accommodations and provides support through the MyDRS portal, virtual drop-in hours, and individualized assistance. Learn more: Temple University Disability Resources & Services

Accommodations for Nursing Individuals

Temple Law offers private lactation rooms in both Klein Hall and Barrack Hall for nursing individuals. Access instructions and contacts are available through Student Services to help ensure a comfortable and private space when needed.

Good Standing Letters

Need proof of your enrollment or academic standing for an employer, bar admission, or another opportunity? Students may request a Good Standing Letter by emailing lawstudent@temple.edu with the required information. Please allow approximately one week for processing. Learn more: Good Standing Letters

HEALTH AND WELLNESS REMINDERS AND EVENTS

Food Assistance Resources Available for Law Students

Thanks to generous donations from Temple Law faculty and staff, we have been keeping the basket on the first floor of Klein Hall stocked with shelf stable food items for students who may be experiencing food insecurity. All students are also welcome to visit the Essential Needs Hub in the Howard Gittis Student Center.

If having a few extra pantry staples at home would be helpful, please stop by Dean Murray’s office (Klein 820) to pick up a bag. These items are intended for students who could benefit from a little additional support, and we encourage anyone with a need to make use of this resource.

Lawyers Concerned for Lawyers (LCL) is here for you!

A pug in glasses rests its head on a stack of law books labeled "CIVIL PROCEDURE," "CONTRACTS," and "EVIDENCE," with a cup reading "Future Esq." nearby. Transcribed Text: Law school is tough. But so are you! Confidential support for law students. Because your well-being matters too. You don't have to do this alone. 1-888-999-1941 LCLPA.ORG HELP IS HERE. YOU MATTER. 100% Confidential Your privacy is always protected. We do not report back to your law school. Your Anonymity. Your Choice. Get Access to Free Literature, Support Meetings, Peer Support, and an assessment with a healthcare professional.

Disciplinary Board Resource Guide for Law Students

The Disciplinary Board has created a resource guide which includes Rules Books, an introduction to the Disciplinary Board’s mission and functions, well-being, pro bono work, and more – tailored to the unique experiences and needs of law students.

Free SEPTA Rides Available for Temple Football Home Games

Temple University has partnered with SEPTA to provide free subway rids for Temple students traveling to and from football home games at Lincoln Financial Field this season.

On game days, students can ride between Cecil B. Moore Station and NRG Station at no cost, with free travel available for two hours before kickoff and two hours after the game ends. Temple University will cover all fares as part of this initiative.

The program is designed to make it easier for students to attend games, support the Owls, and connect with the Temple community by removing transportation and cost barriers. University leaders say the partnership will help more students participate in game-day traditions and show their Temple pride.

Students are encouraged to take advantage of the free SEPTA access and cheer on the Owls throughout the season. For game schedules, tickets, and additional football information, visit OwlSports.com.

Wellness Resource Center: Upcoming Events

Temple University’s Wellness Resource Center (WRC) provides resources and hosts programming throughout the year for all Temple students. For more information on upcoming events, go to the WRC webpage.

TUSafe App – download today!

Temple University’s Department of Public Safety has a one-stop personal safety app that is available on your mobile device. Please visit the university’s Public Safety website for the new application.

Bike Temple: Register your Bicycle; Free U-locks

Students can register bicycles online using Campus Safety’s Bike Registration Form. Just complete and submit the online form, and then visit one of the Campus Safety locations.

Temple Campus Walking Escort Program

To request an escort, call: 8-WALK (8-9255) from a campus phone, or call: 215-777-9255 from a cell phone. Escort service is available daily from 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 a.m. 

Temple Flight Program

Flight is Temple University’s nighttime fixed-route shuttle loop service. Flight-branded shuttles circulate throughout the areas within and surrounding the main campus patrol zone, and pick up and drop off students at each of its over 40 stops. Flight shuttles can be tracked in real time.

BAR EXAM & MPRE

PA Board of Law Examiners Information Meeting Recording

Did you miss our information session with the Pennsylvania Board of Law Examiners? Contact Associate Director Noeleen Urmson at nurmson@temple.edu for the recording.

2027 MPRE Test Dates and Registration Deadlines – Next Deadline January 21, 2027

The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE) is a two-hour, 60-question multiple-choice examination administered three times per year. It is required for admission to the bars in almost every jurisdiction in the United States. The 2027 test dates for the MPRE can be found below.  The Test Fee is $185.

Test Administration Recommended Submission Date to Apply for Accommodations Registration Deadline
Fee: $185
March 23 or 24, 2027 November 19, 2026 January 21, 2027
August 18 or 19, 2027 April 29, 2027 June 17, 2027
(registration not yet open)
November 4 or 5, 2027 July 29, 2027 September 21, 2027
(registration not yet open)

For more information, or to register, please go to the MPRE Registration Information page of the NCBE website here: https://www.ncbex.org/exams/mpre/registration/

Bar Application Fees and Deadlines

The requirements, deadlines, and fees to apply to the bar can vary widely by state. You should check your jurisdiction’s requirements early and often. For basic information and links to each jurisdiction’s bar examiner website, go to https://www.ncbex.org/jurisdictions.

The bar application deadlines and fees for some local jurisdictions can be found below.

Pennsylvania

Application for Permission to Sit for the Pennsylvania Bar Examination and for
Character and Fitness Determination under Pa.B.A.R. 203/205
Application deadlines and filing fees for the bar exam. The following deadlines are POSTMARK deadlines.
Filing Deadline February Exam July Exam Applicant Fee
Timely October 30 March 31 $800.00
Late November 30 April 30 $1,125.00
Final December 15 May 15 $1,450.00

If you wish to type the essay portion of your exam, you must enroll in Computer Based Testing (CBT), which has an additional fee. For more information, go to Pennsylvania Bar Exam Fees and Deadlines and Pennsylvania Bar Exam Computer Based Testing (CBT),

New Jersey

Bar Exam Application Deadlines
Filing Deadline February Exam Fees July Exam Fees
Timely October 1 – October 31 $750 March 1 – March 31 $750
First Late November 1 – November 15 $950 April 1 – April 15 $950
Final Deadline – No Exceptions November 16 – November 30 $1,200 April 16 – April 30 $1,200

For more information, go to New Jersey Board of Bar Examiners: Fees, Deadlines & More

New York

New York has two separate exams: the UBE – taken after earning your JD, and the New York Law Exam (NYLE), which students may take in their last year of law school.

Upcoming UBE Exam Dates & New York Application Deadlines

The UBE administered on the last Tuesday and Wednesday every February and July. Applications to sit for the exam in New York must be filed during the month of October for a February examination and during the month of March for a July examination. There is no late application period.

The application fee for the UBE for individuals seeking admission under Section 520.3 (JD received from an ABA approved law school) is $250.

Below are the exam dates and application filing periods for upcoming UBE administrations:

Dates of Bar Exam Application Filing Dates
February 24-25, 2026 October 1 – 31, 2025
July 28-29, 2026 March 1 – 31, 2026
February 23-24, 2027 October 1 – 31, 2026
July 27-28, 2027 March 1 – 31, 2027

If you wish to type your essay answers (rather than handwrite), you must register for the Laptop Program when they complete the online UBE application. There is an additional $100 technology fee to enroll in the program, paid directly to ExamSoft once you register.

Upcoming NYLE Dates & Registration Deadlines

The New York Law Exam (NYLE) is a 50-item, two-hour, open-book, multiple-choice test administered online that tests important New York rules covered in the New York Law Course (NYLC). You must complete the NYLC before registering for the NYLE, and you must register for the NYLE at least 30 days before the scheduled exam. There is no fee to take the NYLC. However, there is a $29 fee payable to ExamSoft to take the NYLE.

Below are the exam dates and registration deadlines for upcoming NYLE administrations:

Dates of NYLE Registration Deadline
Thursday, April 16, 2026 12:00PM ET Tuesday, March 17, 2026 11:59PM ET
Thursday, September 24, 2026 12:00PM ET Tuesday, August 25, 2026 11:59PM ET
Thursday, December 17, 2026 12:00PM ET Tuesday, November 17, 2026 11:59PM ET

For more information, go to:

Delaware

The Delaware Board of Bar Examiners establishes Early and Final Filing Deadlines for each exam administration. The Early Deadlines are usually the beginning of November (February exam) and the beginning of April (July exam). The Final Deadlines are usually the beginning of December (February exam) and the beginning of May (July exam).

Below are the deadlines and fees for the upcoming administrations:

Delaware Bar Exam Application Deadlines for Law School Graduates
Filing Deadline February 2027 Exam July 2027 Exam Fees
Early November 3, 2026 TBD $700
Final December 1, 2026 TBD $900

For more information, go to: Delaware Board of Bar Examiners Website.

The Bar Exam & MPRE: Key Information and Upcoming Changes

Over the next several years, the bar exam will change for most US jurisdictions. The current bar exam in most jurisdictions is the Uniform Bar Examination, or the Legacy UBE. The new bar exam is called the NextGen UBE. Additionally, almost every US jurisdiction requires its applications to pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE).

Below you will find information about the MPRE and the Legacy-NextGen transition for those intending to sit for the bar exam between July 2026 and February 2028. Regardless of which exam you will take, we encourage you to meet with Noeleen Urmson, Associate Director of Academic and Professional Success, for additional information and guidance.

About the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination

The MPRE is a two-hour, 60-question multiple-choice examination that is administered three times per year. Developed by the NCBE, the MPRE is required for admission to practice in all but two US jurisdictions (Wisconsin and Puerto Rico). Note: Connecticut and New Jersey accept successful completion of a law school course on professional responsibility in lieu of a passing score on the MPRE. Many examinees take the MPRE while they are still in law school, but there is no requirement that you do so.

The purpose of the MPRE is to measure examinees’ knowledge and understanding of established standards related to the professional conduct of lawyers. The MPRE is not a test to determine an individual’s personal ethical values.

MPRE requirements vary from one jurisdiction to another, so examinees are advised to check with the governing body for bar admission in the jurisdiction to which they seek admission before registering for the MPRE. Passing scores and timelines to take the exam are established by each jurisdiction.

The MPRE is administered at dedicated testing centers in all US jurisdictions. Students studying abroad in their last year who wish to take the MPRE before they graduate should plan accordingly.

Testing accommodations requests are made directly to NCBE. Examinees seeking testing accommodations for the MPRE must apply for, and receive their determination, before registering for the exam and scheduling a test appointment. Applications should be submitted well in advance of the desired MPRE testing administration, and no later than the Recommended Submission Date for that administration.

Universal Bar Exam Transition: Legacy to NextGen

Between July 2026 and February 2028, the Legacy UBE will gradually be replaced by the NextGen UBE. The Legacy UBE will sunset after the February 2028 administration; beginning in July 2028, only the NextGen UBE will be offered. Both exams will be offered during this transition period, and each jurisdiction adopting the NextGen UBE determines when they will first administer the exam.

During the UBE transition period, examinees will have a choice: whether to sit for the Legacy UBE or the NextGen UBE. This is determined by where and when the examinee sits for the exam. The transition timeline for local jurisdictions can be found below:

PENNSYLVANIA
Last administration of the Legacy UBE: February 2028
Frist administration of the NextGen UBE: July 2028

NEW JERSEY
Last administration of the Legacy UBE: February 2028
Frist administration of the NextGen UBE: July 2028

DELAWARE*
Last administration of the Delaware Bar Exam: July 2027
Frist administration of the NextGen UBE: February 2028

*Note: Delaware is not a Legacy UBE Jurisdiction, but will adopt the NextGen UBE with a jurisdiction-specific law component

NEW YORK
Last administration of the Legacy UBE: February 2028
Frist administration of the NextGen UBE: July 2028

Both exams provide portable bar exam scores; this means that a qualifying UBE score earned in one UBE jurisdiction may be used to apply for admission to other UBE jurisdictions. To find out if the jurisdiction(s) in which you wish to be licensed administers and/or accepts scores earned through the UBE, visit https://www.ncbex.org/jurisdictions.

As jurisdictions across the country transition from the Legacy UBE to the NextGen UBE, understanding the differences – and the similarities – between the two exams is crucial.

Key Similarities:

  • Purpose: Assess examinees’ readiness for legal practice, focusing on the legal knowledge and skills most necessary within the first three years after licensure
  • Subject Matter: Test the same general subject areas: business associations, civil procedure, constitutional law, contract law, criminal law, evidence, real property, and torts (see About the Legacy UBE below for information on additional MEE subject areas). Family law will be added to the NextGen UBE in July 2028.
  • Source: Developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) and administered by individual jurisdictions. You’ll apply to take the exam in your preferred jurisdiction, and the jurisdiction will determine your eligibility to take the exam.
  • Testing Accommodations: Examinees seeking testing accommodations apply through their jurisdictions, which makes all accommodations decisions.
  • Dates: Administered twice yearly, on the last Tuesday and Wednesday of February and July.
  • Portability: Produce portable scores for transfer to participating jurisdictions.

Key Differences:

  • Duration: Legacy UBE is 12 hours over two days; NextGen UBE is 9 hours over 1.5 days.
  • Delivery: Legacy UBE uses printed materials, Scantrons, and examinees’ laptops; NextGen UBE is administered entirely on examinees’ laptops.
  • Content Focus: Both cover core legal knowledge, but the NextGen UBE expands on the legal skills tested on the legacy UBE, emphasizing issue spotting, research, writing, client counseling, and negotiation.
  • Question Structure: Legacy UBE includes multiple-choice questions, essays, and performance tests; NextGen UBE includes multiple-choice questions, integrated question sets, and performance tasks.

About the Legacy Uniform Bar Exam

Exam Details:

  • Administration: Twice annually (February and July). Final administration is February 2028.
  • Format: 12 hours over two days. Administered in person at jurisdiction-managed sites.
  • Question Types:
    • Multistate Essay Examination (MEE)
    • Multistate Performance Test (MPT)
    • Multistate Bar Examination (MBE)
  • Delivery: Exam is administered using printed exam booklets. Examinees may choose to use their laptops to answer the MEE and MPT. For the MBE, answers are submitted on Scantron forms.
  • Subjects Tested: Business Associations, Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Criminal Law, Evidence, Real Property, and Torts. Through February 2026 only, the Legacy UBE will also test Conflict of Laws, Family Law, Trusts and Estates, and Secured Transactions.
  • Skills Tested: issue spotting, legal analysis and reasoning, factual analysis, communication, organization and management of a legal task, and recognizing and resolving legal dilemmas.
  • Scoring: NCBE grades multiple-choice questions; jurisdictions grade written components.
  • Portability: Scores earned on the Legacy UBE are portable to other Legacy UBE jurisdictions.

About the NextGen Uniform Bar Exam

Exam Details:

  • Administration: Twice annually (February and July). First administration is July 2026 (in select jurisdictions).
  • Format: 9 hours over 1.5 days.
  • Delivery: computer-based, using NCBE’s secure testing browser on examinee laptops of jurisdiction-managed sites.
  • Subjects Tested: Business Associations, Civil Procedure, Constitutional Law, Contract Law, Criminal Law, Evidence, Real Property, and Torts.
  • Skills Assessed: Legal research, legal writing, issue spotting and analysis, investigation and evaluation, client counseling and advising, negotiation and dispute resolution, and client relationship management.
  • Question Formats: Multiple-choice questions, integrated question sets (simulating real-world legal tasks), and performance tasks.
  • Scoring: NCBE scores multiple-choice, jurisdictions score written portions.
  • Portability: NextGen UBE scores earned in any jurisdiction may be transferred for admission to any other jurisdiction that accepts portable scores.

For guidance as to which exam applies to your jurisdiction (or the jurisdiction in which you’re looking to practice), or for help with bar preparation resources, please contact Noeleen Urmson, Associate Director of Academic and Professional Success, for additional information and guidance.