Texas (TX)
UBE- Overall Pass Rate
- 75%
- First-Time Pass Rate
- 84%
- Passing Score
- UBE 270
- 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 | Texas (TX) | Colorado (CO) |
|---|---|---|
| Exam Format | UBE (MBE + MEE + MPT). Two-day exam: Day 1 includes the MEE (6 essays, 30% weight) and MPT (2 performance tests, 20% weight); Day 2 is the MBE (200 multiple-choice questions, 50% weight). Minimum passing score is 270. | 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% | 75% |
| First-Time Pass Rate | 84% | 80% |
| Exam Dates | February and July | February and July |
| MBE Subjects | 7 subjects | 7 subjects |
| State-Specific Subjects | Texas Law Course (required for admission) | None (UBE only) |
| Essay Topics |
|
|
| Bar Admission Authority | Texas Board of Law Examiners, under the Texas Supreme Court | Colorado Supreme Court Office of Attorney Regulation |
| Character & Fitness | The Texas Board of Law Examiners conducts character and fitness evaluations. Applicants must demonstrate good moral character and fitness, and must also pass the MPRE with a score of 85 or higher. | 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 | Texas accepts UBE score transfers of 270 or higher. Transferred scores must meet the Texas Board of Law Examiners' requirements, including completion of a Texas Law Course and passing the MPRE with a score of 85. | 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 | rising | Stable |
| Study Timeline | 10-12 weeks full-time for the UBE | 10-12 weeks full-time for the UBE |
Key Facts & Study Tips
Texas Key Facts
- Texas adopted the UBE in February 2021, replacing its longstanding state-specific exam format.
- Texas law school graduates achieved a first-time pass rate of over 90% on the July 2025 bar exam, a historic high.
- Texas requires a higher MPRE score (85) compared to many other jurisdictions.
- A Texas Law Course is required for admission even when transferring a UBE score from another state.
Texas Study Tips
- Texas adopted the UBE in 2021, replacing its previous state-specific exam -- study UBE-standard materials.
- The MBE is weighted at 50% of your total score, making it the single most important component to master.
- Texas requires a higher MPRE score (85) than many other states -- prepare for this separately.
- Complete the required Texas Law Course covering Texas-specific legal topics before seeking admission.
- First-time takers in Texas achieved a 90%+ pass rate from Texas law schools in July 2025 -- strong preparation pays off.
- Practice with released NCBE MEE and MPT questions and take full-length timed practice exams.
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.