The February 2015 Bar Exam: The Wave of Low State Bar Exam Pass Rates

During this bar cycle, with only a handful of February 2015 state bar exam results released, we are seeing a new wave of low pass rates.  Yes, February bar exam pass rates are routinely lower than July bar exam pass rates, but we have seen an uptick of harder state essay exams, increased passing scores (Illinois), new subjects to learn (Florida) and the addition of Federal Civil Procedure on the MBE.  That new reality is readjusting bar exam scores to much lower levels.

We have seen that the national mean score for the MBE is probably at its lowest in years – a 136. 

This low mean score had a profound effect on all states, but especially, on Florida’s pass rate. 

Florida is a bifurcated state:  If a student fails one section of the bar exam (either state essays or MBE), then the student can retake only that section.  However, the student must make the minimum score for that section; where if a student takes both, that student can make a combined score to pass.  So, for example, if a student passed the Florida state portion and only had to take the MBE again, that student would have to make a minimum score of 136. 

In light of the mean score of 136, many Florida repeat takers, only taking the MBE, failed miserably.  It was extremely hard to make that magical 136 when that was the mean average.

Here are some of the state’s bar passage rates so far for February 2015.

North Carolina – 43%

Oklahoma – 67%

Florida – 64%

Illinois – approx. 67%

Iowa – 72%

Wisconsin – 72% - scaled mean score 137

Tennessee – 54% - scaled mean score - 136

Pennsylvania –  52% - national scaled score – 136

 Be scared for what this portends for those still waiting for results and for the July 2015 bar exam. 

The repeat taker has the hardest row to grind out with these new realities.

Obtaining an MBE Testing Institute's’ bar exam tutor will help you pass.  Many students who are repat bar takers need a bar exam coach to help them improve their writing and analytical skills so they can properly navigate through the bar exam.  A structured, personalized program is the key to passing the bar for repeat takers.

You want to get the bar exam behind you and start your new life as a lawyer. Don’t dither or waste time with the “what ifs”. Stay focused and true to your goal to pass.  Above all else, don’t give up.

The MBE Testing Institute will also be conducting an MBE seminar in Charlotte, N.C., Miami and Orlando. Sign up now to reserve your space.

The MBE Testing Institute knows that taking the bar exam as a repeat taker can be an isolating experience. The MBE Testing Institute  helps the student keep motivated and confident through interaction with the bar tutor.

An MBE Tutor is important to the repeat taker.  The MBE Testing Institute can help you overcome the difficulty of the MBE test and help you to a successful score.

If you need help passing the MBE, contact the MBE Testing Institute at pass@mbetestinginstitute.com for more information.