Bar Exam Comparison
California vs. Colorado Bar Exam
A side-by-side comparison of the California and Colorado bar exams covering format, scoring, pass rates, tested subjects, reciprocity, and more.
California (CA)
Non-UBE- Overall Pass Rate
- 55%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 70%
- Passing Score
- State-specific
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
- Overall Pass Rate
- 75%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 80%
- Passing Score
- UBE 270
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
Detailed Comparison
| Category | California (CA) | Colorado (CO) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Format | 2-day state-specific exam (General Bar Examination). Day 1: Five essay questions and one performance test. Day 2: 200-question MBE. A minimum scaled score of 1390 is required to pass. | UBE (MBE + MEE + MPT). Two-day exam: Day 1 includes the MEE (6 essays) and MPT (2 performance tests); Day 2 is the MBE (200 multiple-choice questions). |
| UBE Status | Non-UBE | UBE |
| Passing Score | State-specific scoring | UBE 270 |
| Overall Pass Rate | 55% | 75% |
| First-Time Pass Rate | 70% | 80% |
| Exam Dates | February and July | February and July |
| MBE Subjects | 7 subjects | 7 subjects |
| State-Specific Subjects | California Community Property, California Civil Procedure, California Evidence, California Professional Responsibility, Remedies, Wills and Trusts | None (UBE only) |
| Essay Topics |
|
|
| Bar Admission Authority | The State Bar of California, Committee of Bar Examiners | Colorado Supreme Court Office of Attorney Regulation |
| Character & Fitness | Applicants must file a separate Application for Determination of Moral Character. The review process typically takes up to 180 days and examines criminal history, academic discipline, financial responsibility, and candor. | The Colorado Supreme Court conducts character and fitness evaluations through its Office of Attorney Regulation. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and fitness, including disclosure of criminal history and financial issues. |
| Reciprocity | California does not participate in the UBE and does not accept UBE score transfers. Attorneys admitted in other jurisdictions may take the shorter Attorneys' Examination (one-day exam) instead of the full General Bar Examination. | Colorado accepts UBE score transfers of 270 or higher earned within 5 years. Attorneys admitted in other jurisdictions who have practiced for 5 of the last 7 years may also apply for admission by motion. |
| Pass Rate Trend | Stable | Stable |
| Study Timeline | 12-14 weeks full-time recommended due to the difficulty and state-specific content | 10-12 weeks full-time for the UBE |
Key Facts & Study Tips
California Key Facts
- California consistently has one of the lowest overall bar pass rates in the nation, hovering around 55% overall.
- California does not use the UBE and administers its own state-specific essay and performance test.
- The Attorneys' Examination offers a shorter path for lawyers already admitted in other states.
- California tests unique subjects such as Community Property and Remedies that are not on the standard UBE.
California Study Tips
- California has one of the lowest bar pass rates in the nation -- plan for intensive, disciplined study over 10-14 weeks.
- Master California-specific subjects like Community Property, Remedies, and Professional Responsibility, which are heavily tested on essays.
- Practice writing essays under strict time constraints -- you get one hour per essay.
- The performance test is worth significant points; do not neglect it in your preparation.
- Use past California bar exam essays and selected answers published by the State Bar for targeted practice.
- Consider supplementing a national bar prep course with California-specific materials.
Colorado Key Facts
- Colorado was one of the first states to adopt the UBE in February 2012.
- The passing score was reduced from 276 to 270 starting with the February 2023 administration.
- Colorado will replace the UBE with the NextGen bar exam beginning July 2028.
- July pass rates are typically around 75-80%, while February rates are significantly lower at around 53-59%.
Colorado Study Tips
- Colorado lowered its UBE cut score from 276 to 270 starting with the February 2023 exam, improving pass rates.
- Focus on MBE preparation as it accounts for half your total UBE score.
- Practice MEE essays under timed conditions using released NCBE questions.
- Do not neglect the MPT -- strong performance test scores can significantly boost your overall result.
- Colorado will transition to the NextGen bar exam in July 2028, so current UBE study materials remain relevant.
- Take advantage of bar prep resources offered through University of Colorado or University of Denver law schools.