Where Should I Take The MPRE?

Where Should I Take The MPRE?

If you’re living and going to law school in a jurisdiction other than the one in which you want to practice, you may be wondering where to take the MPRE. Do you have to get on a plane just to take a two-hour multiple-choice test? This post will answer the question of where to consider taking the MPRE as well as give you some things to consider when deciding where you want to take the test.

Where Should I Take The MPRE?

Where Should You Take the MPRE?

You do not need to take the MPRE in the same jurisdiction where you plan to eventually take the bar exam. The National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) administers the MPRE three times a year at testing centers all over the country.  You can take the MPRE at any one of those test centers. Because the MPRE is designed by the NCBE, it’s the same test no matter where in the country you take it.

When you register for the MPRE, you choose which jurisdiction you want the score reported to, regardless of where you might be located when you actually sit for the test.

Make Sure To Get The Right Passing Score

Scores on the MPRE range from 50-150.  The passing score is different for each jurisdiction. For example, a 75 is a perfectly adequate passing score in Georgia, but you won’t be practicing in California unless you raise that score considerably. Minimum passing scores range from 75-86, so make sure you’re aiming for the passing score in the jurisdiction where you want to practice, and study accordingly.  The passing score you need might be different than the passing score required in the state where you’re taking the MPRE!

Here’s a great post on how to study for the MPRE!

We also offer a free MPRE prep course.

What If You Switch Jurisdictions?

If you had your MPRE score reported to one jurisdiction, then decide you want to practice somewhere else after all, you don’t need to retake the MPRE in most cases. As long as you have the correct passing score for your new jurisdiction, you can log into your NCBE account and submit a request to have your scores reported to another jurisdiction.

Keep The Bar Exam In Mind

Different jurisdictions have different rules for whether you can take the bar exam before you pass the MPRE. For example, some states will allow you to take the bar exam once, but you can’t try again until you pass the MPRE. Be sure to check the rules of the jurisdiction where you intend to practice!  Additionally, be sure you report your MPRE score to the right jurisdiction to avoid a delay in taking the bar exam or in receiving your license!

A Final Warning

No matter where you decide to take the MPRE, there is a fee. It costs $135 to sit for the test, so be sure to budget accordingly. Finally, make sure you register on time.  You don’t want to have to wait to take the MPRE because you didn’t sign up in time!

Good luck!

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