In a groundbreaking shift, California is set to introduce its own bar exam by February 2025, breaking away from the national attorney licensing test. The State Bar of California has approved a substantial $8.25 million, five-year agreement with Kaplan Test Prep to craft the new exam questions. This decision positions California, which ranks second in bar examinee numbers after New York, on a unique path separate from the forthcoming national bar exam scheduled for July 2026—a move embraced by 21 other jurisdictions.
The change is anticipated to save California up to $4 million annually. By administering the exam remotely or through smaller test centers, the state bar will avoid the costly rental of large venues twice a year—a requirement under the current national testing format. The new NextGen bar exam, developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners, will be held exclusively in person.
Facing financial strain, with an expected $4 million overspend this year, the California bar’s decision aims to address both cost and logistical challenges. The shift is designed to adapt to evolving access needs while providing the bar with greater flexibility.
Despite concerns raised by the National Conference over copyright issues related to Kaplan’s role in developing questions, discussions have continued. The conference has not reviewed the final contract but trusts that Kaplan will respect existing intellectual property rights.
Under the new agreement, Kaplan will begin creating multiple-choice questions for the February 2025 exam and will start on essay and performance questions in 2026.
