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About Implementation

NCBE has set a timeline of four to five years for implementation of the NextGen Bar Exam, which will consist of an integrated examination—offered two times per year and delivered by computer—that measures both knowledge and skills through a mix of item formats. NCBE is committed to ensuring a systematic, transparent, and collaborative implementation process, informed by input from and participation by stakeholders, and guided by best practices and the professional standards for high-stakes testing.

The major steps of implementation will include:

About the NextGen Bar Exam

Set to debut in a limited number of US jurisdictions in July 2026, the NextGen bar exam will test a broad range of foundational lawyering skills, utilizing a focused set of clearly identified fundamental legal concepts and principles needed in today’s practice of law.

On this website you can review the NextGen development and implementation timeline and read published reports and other materials from each stage of NextGen research.

Visit the NextGen section of the NCBE website for a list of jurisdictions that have adopted the NextGen bar exam, content scope outlines, sample questions, and other information to help candidates prepare. For the latest news about the NextGen bar exam, visit NCBE News/Resources.

Foundational Concepts & Principles

  • Civil Procedure
  • Contract Law
  • Evidence
  • Torts
  • Business Associations
  • Constitutional Law
  • Criminal Law
  • Real Property
  • Family Law*

Foundational Skills

  • Legal Research
  • Legal Writing
  • Issue Spotting and Analysis
  • Investigation and Evaluation
  • Client Counseling and Advising
  • Negotiation and Dispute Resolution
  • Client Relationship and Management

*Family Law will be added to the list of foundational concepts and principles starting with the July 2028 NextGen bar exam.

  • Developing content specifications identifying scope of coverage

  • Evaluating options for computer delivery of the exam

  • Drafting new types of questions for integrated testing of knowledge and skills

  • Establishing scoring processes and psychometric methods for equating/scaling scores

  • Ensuring accessibility for candidates with disabilities

  • Developing test administration policies and procedures

  • Field-testing new item formats and new exam content

  • Conducting analyses and review to ensure fairness for diverse populations of candidates

  • Assisting jurisdictions to prepare and supporting them in activities such as setting passing score requirements and amending rules to align with changes to the exam

  • Providing study materials and sample test questions to help candidates prepare