Arkansas Bar Exam
Arkansas Bar Exam Format
The Arkansas bar exam is the legacy Uniform Bar Exam (“UBE”) (first UBE administration February 2020). It takes two days and consists of the Multistate Performance Test (“MPT”), the Multistate Essay Exam (“MEE”), and the Multistate Bar Exam (“MBE”). Arkansas-specific law is not tested on the exam. NextGen UBE adoption is under study by the Arkansas Supreme Court (no locked first-administration date as of August 2026). Confirm current rules with ASBLE and NCBE.
MPT (Performance Test)
Arkansas tests two (2) MPT performance tests.
MEE (Essays)
Arkansas tests six (6) MEE essays covering the standard MEE subject pool.
MBE (Multiple Choice)
Arkansas uses the standard MBE.
MBE Score Transfer
Arkansas does not accept MBE scores transferred from other jurisdictions (NCBE).
UBE Score Transfer
Arkansas accepts a portable UBE score of 270 or greater earned within 36 months. See the Board’s UBE transfer materials (Rule XVIII).
Arkansas Bar Exam Testing Schedule
Day 1 (Tuesday)
2 MPTs and 6 MEE essays
Day 2 (Wednesday)
Morning – MBE Part I (100 questions; 3 hours)
Afternoon – MBE Part II (100 questions; 3 hours)
Arkansas Bar Exam Dates and Application
Applications, deadlines, and exam information are on the Arkansas State Board of Law Examiners site.
Grading
Arkansas Bar Exam Weight
| MPT | 20% |
| MEE | 30% |
| MBE | 50% |
Passing Score
The minimum passing UBE score is 270. Confirm any post-pass admission timing rules with ASBLE.
Review
Confirm current answer-review and appeal practices with the Board.
Retaking the Arkansas Bar Exam
Unsuccessful applicants may reapply for a later administration. Confirm current reapplication deadlines and fees with ASBLE.