- Overall Pass Rate
- 72%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 80%
- Passing Score
- UBE 266
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
Indiana (IN)
UBE- Overall Pass Rate
- 73%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 82%
- Passing Score
- UBE 264
- Exam Dates
- February and July
- MBE Subjects
- 7
Detailed Comparison
| Category | Illinois (IL) | Indiana (IN) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Format | UBE (MBE + MEE + MPT). MBE is 50%, MEE is 30%, MPT is 20%. Scored on a 400-point scale with a minimum passing score of 266. | UBE (MBE + MEE + MPT). MBE is 50%, MEE is 30%, MPT is 20%. Scored on a 400-point scale with a minimum passing score of 264. |
| UBE Status | UBE | UBE |
| Passing Score | UBE 266 | UBE 264 |
| Overall Pass Rate | 72% | 73% |
| First-Time Pass Rate | 80% | 82% |
| 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 |
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| Bar Admission Authority | Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar | Indiana Board of Law Examiners |
| Character & Fitness | All applicants must complete a Character and Fitness Questionnaire reviewed by the Committee on Character and Fitness for their Judicial District. Applicants with felony convictions or pending charges must receive certification before sitting for the exam. | All applicants must undergo a character and fitness investigation conducted by the Indiana Board of Law Examiners. The process includes background checks, disclosure of criminal history, and personal references. |
| Reciprocity | As a UBE state, Illinois accepts transferred UBE scores of 266 or higher. UBE scores are portable for up to 5 years from the exam date. | As a UBE state, Indiana accepts transferred UBE scores of 264 or higher from other UBE jurisdictions. Applicants must also pass the MPRE with a score of 80 or higher. |
| Pass Rate Trend | rising | rising |
| Study Timeline | 10-12 weeks full-time preparation recommended for UBE states with a 266 passing score | 8-10 weeks full-time preparation recommended for UBE states with a 264 passing score |
Top Law Schools
Illinois
Key Facts & Study Tips
Illinois Key Facts
- Illinois requires a UBE score of 266, which is above the national median UBE passing score.
- The July 2024 overall pass rate rose to 72%, up 2 percentage points from 2023.
- Illinois is home to some of the nation's top law schools, including the University of Chicago (consistently top 5).
- Illinois will transition to the NextGen bar exam in February 2028.
Illinois Study Tips
- Focus heavily on the MBE since it accounts for 50% of your total score and Illinois requires a 266, which is on the higher end of UBE passing scores.
- Practice MEE essays under timed conditions, as the six 30-minute essays require efficient issue spotting and analysis.
- Dedicate time to MPT preparation since many examinees underestimate the performance test, which counts for 20% of the total score.
- Study the most commonly tested MEE subjects: Contracts, Evidence, Constitutional Law, and Real Property appear frequently.
- Take full-length practice exams to build stamina for the two-day, 12-hour testing format.
- Illinois is transitioning to the NextGen bar exam in February 2028, so plan your exam timeline accordingly.
Indiana Key Facts
- Indiana recorded its highest bar exam pass rate in four years during 2024-2025, with 66% overall across both administrations.
- The July 2024 exam had a 73% overall pass rate, while February 2025 dropped to 47%.
- Indiana requires a UBE score of 264, which is moderate among UBE states.
- Repeat takers have historically lower pass rates, making first-attempt preparation critical.
Indiana Study Tips
- Indiana's 264 passing score is slightly below the median UBE requirement, but do not underestimate the exam's difficulty.
- Focus on MBE practice questions since the multiple-choice portion accounts for half your total score.
- Practice writing MEE essays under strict 30-minute time limits to develop concise analysis skills.
- Study Business Associations and Trusts and Estates thoroughly, as these appear frequently on the MEE.
- Take advantage of Indiana's UBE portability by aiming for a score well above 264 to keep your options open for other states.