Virginia Bar Exam

Virginia Bar Exam Format

The Virginia bar exam is a non-UBE exam: nine Virginia essays, ten Virginia multiple-choice questions, and the MBE (typically 60% written / 40% MBE). Virginia plans to administer the NextGen UBE beginning July 2028. Virginia will begin accepting NextGen portable scores from July 2028; legacy UBE transfer is not available. Confirm current rules with the Board and NCBE.

MBE Score Transfer
Virginia accepts a transferred MBE scaled score of 133 or greater within three years if the applicant passed the full bar exam in the source jurisdiction.

UBE Score Transfer
Virginia does not accept legacy portable UBE scores.

Virginia Bar Exam Dates and Application

Applications, fees, and deadlines are on the Virginia Board of Bar Examiners site.

Grading

Passing Score
Minimum combined scaled score: 140. NextGen local cut score: TBA.

Retaking the Virginia Bar Exam

Unsuccessful applicants may reapply. Confirm attempt limits with the Board.