Exam

Click on the questions below for more information.

*The July and September 2020 exams are unique. Please refer to the FAQ’s related to the 2020 summer examinations here.

1. Where is the bar exam held?

The exam site varies based on availability. Check the Board’s website for the upcoming exam location.

2. What can I bring into the exam?

Unwrapped medication (not in a bottle or blister pack) is allowed to be brought into the exam in a clear plastic bag. If you have any medication needs beyond what is listed on the prohibited and allowed items list, please send a request with your application, upload a letter of request to your Applicant Portal, or call the office for additional instructions. Please make this request as soon as possible.

3. Are there metal detectors or other security measures at the exam site?

Yes. Security measures are in place for the safety of examinees and staff. A police officer, an emergency medical technician, and metal detectors will be present in or near the exam room.

4. Can I bring my medications?

You may bring your medication unwrapped in a clear plastic bag, not in a bottle or blister pack. For medications that do not fit this description, a letter of request should be uploaded to your Applicant Portal, or call the office for additional instructions. Please do this as soon as possible.

5. Can I bring bottled water? *

No, unless you have a medical need and receive permission to bring in the bottled water. Send a written request to the Board office. You will be advised via your Applicant Portal if your request is granted. Water fountains are available within the exam room.

6. I have a medical condition which requires me to consume water and snacks throughout the day. Will I be allowed to do so?

You must request special authorization to bring medication, nebulizers, food, or water. Please send a letter to the Board office with your request. You may be required to submit a physician’s statement. Make your request as soon as possible. The Board will respond via your Applicant Portal.

7. What is the timing of the bar exam? *

The timing of the exam is:

Tuesday morning – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon – 2 MPT questions
Tuesday afternoon – 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – 6 MEE questions
Wednesday morning – 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 noon – 100 MBE questions
Wednesday afternoon – 1:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. – 100 MBE questions

The doors to the exam room open at 7:30 both mornings and 1:00 both afternoons. Instructions typically begin at 8:40 and 1:15 both days. You must be in your seats by these times.

8. When is the lunch break? *

The lunch break is approximately 1 hour between noon and 1:00 p.m.

9. Is there a time when I cannot leave the exam room?

Yes. Examinees may not leave the exam room 15 minutes prior to the end of each session. If you finish the exam prior to that, you may turn in your exam and leave the exam room.

10. If I can't bring items into the exam room, where do I leave them?

There are tables where you can leave any personal items while you are in the testing room. This location is NOT secure. The Board of Law Examiners assumes no responsibility for lost, stolen or damaged belongings.

11. Can I have a cell phone in my pocket if it is turned off?

No. You may not have a cell phone or any electronic device in the exam room.

12. Are there restrooms and water fountains available during the exam? *

Yes. You may take a restroom break or get a drink of water. Water fountains are available in testing area. You may not leave your test materials unattended on your desk. Take your test materials to the head proctor for your area and leave them there while you are away from your seat. Take your test materials from the head proctor table when you go back to your seat.

13. What are the test tables and chairs like? *

The tables are 8 foot long and 18” deep. Two people are seated at each table. Most tables have a plastic top and you will be given a plastic sheet to put your test material on for a smooth writing surface. The chairs have some padding on the seat.

14. Is scratch paper allowed during any part of the bar exam?

No. Scratch paper is not allowed. You may write in the question booklets.

15. Are the laptop examinees and those hand writing the exam in the same room?

Yes.

16. Do I need any of the passwords that I received when I downloaded the laptop software?

No. You will be given new passwords at the exam.

17. What if my laptop stops working during the test?

Raise the orange flag that you will be given. A proctor will give you a book so you can hand write your answer. If a laptop technician can get your laptop working, you can type your answer on your laptop. Make sure that a proctor takes the handwritten part of your answer at the end of the session. Your written answer will be inserted with your laptop answer.

18. I lost my driver’s license and only have the paper receipt issued by the Department of Transportation? What do I do for registration?

You must bring a picture ID along with the paper receipt. You may also use a passport or other government issued picture ID for identification.

19. What if the address on my admission ticket no longer matches my driver’s license?

As long as you have a valid photo ID, we will accept a different address. If your address has changed, remember that you have a continuing obligation to notify the Board office of your current address. The change of address form can be found here and may be uploaded through your Applicant Portal.

20. Is there a dress code for the bar exam?

No, but we suggest that you dress in layers. The temperature of the exam room can vary. Some articles of clothing are not allowed. See the prohibited and allowed items list for more information. This list is updated for each exam, so check back before the exam you are scheduled for.

21. I have already taken and passed the Minnesota bar exam. Can I sit for the Minnesota exam again so I'll have a UBE score to transfer to another state?

A Minnesota lawyer can apply for and take the Minnesota bar exam again if your purpose is to obtain a transferable UBE score. You must complete the registration process and complete and send in the Minnesota Bar application. Include a photo on the signed photo ID card and $600 fee. You do not need to send a new Certificate of Graduation from your law school or an MPRE score.

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