California Supreme Court Rejects Proposal for New Bar Exam
The California Supreme Court recently made a decision that has significant implications for the State Bar of California. The court denied the bar’s plan to launch a proprietary bar exam created by Kaplan Exam Services in February 2025. This decision has created uncertainty and anxiety among prospective test-takers and has raised questions about the future of the bar exam in California.
Background of the Decision
The State Bar of California had petitioned to allow Kaplan to create a 200-question multiple-choice exam for the February 2025 administration. However, just two weeks before registration was set to open, the California Supreme Court denied the petition without prejudice. This means that the bar must now adjust its plans and comply with the court’s rulings before moving forward with any new exam format.
Impact on Test-Takers
The decision to reject the proposal for a new bar exam has left many students and graduates preparing for the exam in limbo. The timeline for the exam was already tight, and the court’s decision has only added to the challenges faced by those hoping to pass the bar in California. Applicants are still able to state their preference for a remote or in-person exam, but details on the exam format remain unclear.
Future Plans
The State Bar of California is scheduled to meet on September 30 to discuss next steps following the court’s decision. The bar plans to file a new petition as quickly as possible, taking into account any feedback from the court. The goal is to ensure that the bar exam remains valid and of high quality while also addressing the financial challenges faced by the admissions fund.
Implications for Nevada
The decision in California could have implications for neighboring Nevada, where the state supreme court approved a three-pronged pathway to the bar that might include using the Kaplan-created test. Members of both states’ bars recently met to discuss the potential impact of California’s decision on Nevada’s bar exam process.
Conclusion
The California Supreme Court’s rejection of the proposal for a new bar exam has created uncertainty and challenges for the State Bar of California. The court’s decision has left many prospective test-takers in a state of limbo, unsure of what the future holds for the bar exam in California. As the bar works to address the court’s feedback and adjust its plans, the focus remains on ensuring the integrity and validity of the exam while also addressing the financial challenges faced by the admissions fund.
