New York State’s decision to adopt the Uniform Bar Exam (UBE) in July 2016 may shake up the legal education landscape -- providing newly licensed New York lawyers with greater licensure portability, according to Kaplan Bar Review. New York becomes the 16th state -- and largest by far -- to adopt the UBE, which is essentially a national licensing exam for would be practicing attorneys to practice law across multiple states. Last year, 15,200 aspiring lawyers took the New York bar exam - more than any other state in the country. The Empire State’s adoption of the UBE will nearly triple the current number of UBE bar takers from about 8,000 to about 23,000, based on 2014 statistics.

Data shows strong support for such a move from law school grads, as a 2013 Kaplan survey of 700 bar review students showed that 80% support a UBE adopted by all U.S. jurisdictions.

“Our research shows that many aspiring lawyers will welcome New York’s adoption of the Uniform Bar Exam, as it provides a more uniform experience for test takers and allows them greater career mobility,” said Steve Marietti, vice president and general manager, Kaplan Bar Review. “It’s also likely to prompt other states to make the jump. However, given unique issues that many jurisdictions face, we expect many will maintain their state-specific bar exams.” Marietti noted that candidates for the New York bar will have to pass a 50-question multiple choice test on New York specific laws.

“Given our experience preparing students for the UBE and with its implementation in other states, we’re looking forward to helping New York students tackle the UBE next summer,” said Marietti.

To schedule an interview with a legal education expert at Kaplan, please contact Russell Schaffer at russell.schaffer@kaplan.com or 212.453.7538.

About Kaplan Bar Review

Kaplan Bar Review (www.kaplanbarreview.com) provides full-service bar review programs in 51 jurisdictions (all 50 states and Washington, DC). Additionally, Kaplan Bar Review offers supplemental preparation for the Multistate Bar Exam (MBE).

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