California Approves Remote Bar Exam for February 2024 Launch
California bar exam candidates may soon have the option to take their attorney licensing test outside the state, marking a significant shift in exam administration. The State Bar of California’s Committee of Bar Examiners voted 8-3 to allow examinees to sit for the exam remotely or at test centers in other states and countries. This change is pending final approval for the February 2024 exam.
A Landmark Decision for California Bar Examinees
California's new policy provides flexibility, unlike other states, which mandate bar candidates to physically appear in the jurisdiction where they wish to practice law. Candidates will be able to take the exam remotely or in designated test centers outside of California, as long as they take it simultaneously with their counterparts within the state. This measure is designed to prevent cheating while offering more accessibility.
Financial Relief for Out-of-State Bar Takers
For many out-of-state test-takers, this shift will translate into significant savings. According to data presented to the committee, a substantial number of applicants—between 20% and 22% for recent exams—listed out-of-state addresses. Many of these candidates incurred high travel expenses, with some spending over $1,000 on travel and lodging to take the exam in California. The new remote option is expected to eliminate these costs, providing greater financial relief.
Transition to a Hybrid Testing Format
This change is part of a broader plan to transition away from the traditional in-person bar exam held in large convention centers. Starting in February, the state will move to a new format, offering an online version of the exam or allowing candidates to use smaller, more localized testing centers. This shift is expected to save the California State Bar an estimated $3.8 million annually by reducing the cost of renting large exam venues. These savings are crucial as the state bar’s admissions department currently faces a budget deficit.
California Supreme Court and Procedural Challenges
The new bar exam format encountered an obstacle in September when the California Supreme Court rejected the state bar’s petition to implement the changes, citing procedural issues. In response, the Committee of Bar Examiners held a special meeting and voted to resubmit the petition on October 4. Although the Supreme Court has not yet ruled on the revised proposal, the state bar is moving forward with preparations, anticipating a favorable decision.
Meazure Learning Partnership to Ensure Exam Integrity
As part of the shift to remote testing, the state bar is finalizing an agreement with Meazure Learning, a leading testing company, to administer and proctor the exam. The new system will ensure that the experience and security of the remote test mirror that of an in-person exam, whether the candidates are taking it in California or elsewhere. This partnership aims to provide a seamless and secure testing experience.
California: A Major Bar Exam Jurisdiction
California is the second-largest bar exam jurisdiction in the United States, behind only New York. In 2023, over 11,300 aspiring attorneys sat for the California bar exam. With such a large number of participants, the move to allow remote testing could set a precedent for other states to follow, reshaping the landscape of legal licensing exams.
