Why the California Bar is So Difficult
The California bar exam is widely considered the hardest bar exam in the United States. With a pass rate hovering around 33% for all takers (53% for first-time takers from ABA schools), it's significantly more challenging than most other state exams.
What Makes California Different
- ● Own exam format: California doesn't use the UBE. It has its own essay subjects and scoring system.
- ● More subjects: Tests 13+ subjects vs. 7 on the MBE-only states.
- ● California-specific law: Must know California distinctions from common law.
- ● Large applicant pool: Includes graduates from non-ABA schools with lower bar pass rates.
California Bar Exam Format
Day 1: Written Exam
- 5 Essay Questions: 1 hour each (5 hours total)
- 1 Performance Test: 90 minutes
- Essays test California-specific subjects
- Written portion counts 50% of total score
Day 2: MBE
- 200 Multiple Choice Questions
- Morning: 100 questions, 3 hours
- Afternoon: 100 questions, 3 hours
- MBE counts 50% of total score
Essay Subjects (California-Specific)
- Business Associations
- Civil Procedure
- Community Property
- Constitutional Law
- Contracts
- Criminal Law & Procedure
- Evidence
- Professional Responsibility
- Real Property
- Remedies
- Torts
- Trusts
- Wills & Succession
California Bar Pass Rates
| Category | Pass Rate |
|---|---|
| Overall (All Takers) | 33% |
| First-Time (ABA Schools) | 53% |
| First-Time (CA Accredited) | 25% |
| Repeat Takers | 16% |
ABA vs. Non-ABA
California is one of few states allowing non-ABA school graduates to take the bar. This significantly impacts overall pass rates, as non-ABA schools have much lower bar passage rates.
Eligibility Requirements
- JD from ABA-accredited school OR California-accredited school OR law office study program
- MPRE Score: 86 or higher
- Moral Character Determination (apply early - takes 6+ months)
- First-Year Law Students' Exam (FYLSX) if not from ABA school
Important Dates & Timeline
July 2026 Exam
California-Specific Prep Strategies
1. Master California Distinctions
Learn how California law differs from common law/majority rules. Essays specifically test California distinctions in Community Property, Professional Responsibility, and Civil Procedure.
2. Practice the PT Extensively
The Performance Test is a major score differentiator. Practice at least 10-15 PTs under timed conditions. This is where many test-takers can gain points.
3. Don't Neglect MBE
The MBE is 50% of your score. A strong MBE can compensate for weaker essays. Aim for 140+ scaled MBE score.
4. Use California-Specific Resources
BarBri, Themis, and Kaplan all have California-specific courses. Review past California essays from the State Bar website.
FAQ
How many times can I take the California bar?
There's no limit on attempts, but after failing 3 times you must complete additional legal education. The State Bar tracks all attempts.
Can I transfer a UBE score to California?
No. California does not accept UBE scores. You must take and pass the California bar exam regardless of scores in other states.
What's the best bar prep course for California?
BarBri is most popular and comprehensive. Themis offers excellent value. Both have strong California-specific content. Consider supplementing with Adaptibar for MBE practice.