Which Uniform Bar Exam Should I Take?

Which Uniform Bar Exam Should I Take?

So many UBE options so little time! Ok, not really but it makes for an exciting introduction. If you’re a student preparing to take the Uniform Bar Exam (or “UBE”) or deciding where to take the UBE, this post is for you. Deciding which UBE to take may seem like a straightforward decision, however, there are several different factors that are worth considering before making the final decision. Given that the UBE is offered in thirty-six states, applicants can take the same exam in different locations. However, just because the same UBE is offered in different states doesn’t mean the passing rate is identical. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most important considerations when deciding which Uniform Bar Exam to take.

Which Uniform Bar Exam Should I Take?

Where Do You See Future You?

The first factor in deciding where to take the UBE should be location. Where do you want to live and practice law once you become an attorney? For example, if you want to live in North Carolina for the foreseeable future, then taking the UBE in North Carolina makes sense. While UBE scores are often transferable (with some limitations) between UBE states, taking the bar exam initially in the state where you want to live and work makes life easier since you don’t have to worry about the process of transferring scores later.

Each State’s Passing Scores

Another factor to consider when deciding which UBE to take is each state’s passing score. Every state that administers the UBE sets its own passing score. Just because you pass the bar exam in one state doesn’t mean you automatically pass in another UBE state. Sure, if another state’s passing score is lower than the state where you passed, you can transfer (subject to some limitations) your score. If your score is lower than the passing score of the state where you want to transfer, you will likely need to sit for the second state’s bar exam if you want to practice there.

The Job Market

The job market in the location you’re interested in is another important aspect of deciding where to take the UBE. Most students graduating from law school and passing the bar exam carry student debt. For many, the time spent after taking the bar exam looking for a job isn’t easy. Rent payments, car payments, credit card bills, and other financial obligations don’t simply disappear because you’re job hunting. Spending some time analyzing the job market in the states you’re targeting is important when deciding where to take the UBE. Some job market-related considerations include the number of major cities and law firms in the states you’re interested in. Also, be sure to check how strong your law school’s alumni network is in a certain locality.

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