- Overall Pass Rate
- 75%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 80%
- Passing Score
- UBE 270
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
Utah (UT)
UBE- Overall Pass Rate
- 86%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 89%
- Passing Score
- UBE 270
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
Detailed Comparison
| Category | Colorado (CO) | Utah (UT) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Format | 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 (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 | UBE | UBE |
| Passing Score | UBE 270 | UBE 270 |
| Overall Pass Rate | 75% | 86% |
| First-Time Pass Rate | 80% | 89% |
| Exam Dates | February and July | February and July |
| MBE Subjects | 7 subjects | 7 subjects |
| State-Specific Subjects | None (UBE only) | None (UBE only) |
| Essay Topics |
|
|
| Bar Admission Authority | Colorado Supreme Court Office of Attorney Regulation | Utah State Bar Admissions, under the Utah Supreme Court |
| Character & Fitness | 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. | The Utah State Bar conducts character and fitness evaluations under the authority of the Utah Supreme Court. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and fitness through a comprehensive background review. |
| Reciprocity | 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. | Utah accepts UBE score transfers of 270 or higher within 5 years. Utah also offers admission by motion for attorneys who have been actively engaged in the practice of law for 5 of the last 7 years. |
| Pass Rate Trend | Stable | Stable |
| Study Timeline | 10-12 weeks full-time for the UBE | 8-10 weeks full-time for UBE states |
Key Facts & Study Tips
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.
Utah Key Facts
- Utah consistently has one of the highest bar pass rates in the nation, with July 2025 at 86% overall.
- First-time takers in Utah pass at approximately 89-94%, among the highest rates nationally.
- Utah is a pure UBE state with no additional state-specific testing components.
- Utah's high pass rates make it an attractive jurisdiction for those seeking initial bar admission.
Utah Study Tips
- Utah consistently has one of the highest bar pass rates in the nation -- but still prepare rigorously.
- A UBE score of 270 is required, which is the national median cut score.
- Focus on MBE preparation as it is the largest component of the UBE at 50%.
- Utah is a pure UBE state with no additional state-specific testing requirements.
- Consider transferring a UBE score from another jurisdiction if you have already scored 270 or higher.
- Take advantage of bar prep resources from BYU Law or University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law.