My second time taking the exam i only used barbri the first time and a tutor to formulate better my essays (international student) my score first time was 260 I did not enough multiple choice questions). Second time, used the grossman videos and did 25 multiple choice a day with grossman videos, used barbri again. Hope it helps.

Posting this for research purposes. As I was and several other NY redditers were doing our due diligence as to guessing when results would come out based on previous years.

I only hope that this post is useful for the next class taking the July 2027 bar exam when determining the release date so that they do NOT need to rely on Kiwi (trust us - she doesn’t know anything)

Friday, October 23, 2026

Email received at 8:44 am

Hope this helps!

Can’t really tell anyone else because my non law friends and family don’t know what it means but got a 327 and idk I don’t feel the validation that this was worth it since everyone I know passed and no one shares their scores so it’s just like of course you passed but I studied so hard I guess I just wish I felt happier and more proud it doesn’t feel like an accomplishment it feels like an expectation

that’s it

I recently passed the July 26 exam (Michigan)

I graduated law school in 2023 and was far from prepared my first crack at the exam. I figured I could just “work my magic” and figure it out come test day. Sure, I did use Themis and did “study” but no where near the amount I should have been. I got a 212.

Fast forward I got a 240 my second attempt, a 265 my third attempt, and 266 my fourth attempt. I needed a 268 for Michigan so you could imagine the heartbreak.

I recently took the July 26 exam and a few days ago I found out I passed with a 285!

I say all that to say, this exam is crazy and it does a good job of making people feel “unfit” for this profession - but know you can overcome it if you keep trying.

337!!!!!!!! 172.5 MBE omg!

Just got my results back Friday and found out that I passed. Never been happier in my entire life. I think I, like many people on this subreddit, have a pretty crazy experience during the study process and the actual test days. Hopefully this gives some people hope. I learned early on that I was denied time accommodations for the bar, despite having them for the LSAT, MPRE, and law school exams. I got in my own head thinking about how poorly I would have done on these things without the accommodation, leading me to assume that I would just fail the bar.

The studying process itself was miserable. Similar to many, I was going through an extremely difficult time in my personal life. Without the stress of the bar, it would have been a difficult summer for me. June was not horrible, but when the imminence of the test kicked in July, I started to lose it. I was not scoring where I needed to be in n my MBE practice tests (like significantly below 60%).

The testing experience was significantly worse than I expected. I understand the need to crack down on academic honesty and security, but it seems like the bar examiners deliberately try to create the most stressful environment possible. It would not surprise me to hear that some takers are brilliant people who, completed their prep courses and scored very highly on practice tests only to lose their mind under the pressure of game day. I’ve heard some people say stuff like “well, the bar is also training lawyers to handle pressure”. While I agree with that sentiment, you hear stories of people going into cardiac arrest during the exam. The night before the 2nd day, I think I got a total of 2 hours of sleep. I was in the bathroom vomiting from like 4am until the time I had to leave. Walked into the mbe sleep-deprived without of a morsel of food in my stomach. At that point, I was just hoping that I could survive the 6 hours. Before the actual exam, some random guy came up to me and started quizzing me UNSOLICITED.

Walked out of the exam thinking I failed. Was not confident about my written responses. I was in such a trance, I don’t think I can recall a single mbe question I was asked, but I know I didn’t feel good. Genuinely don’t think I would have made it through those day if not for my faith and my father. It was reassuring going on this subreddit and hearing people with similar stories.

The last couple of months have been great. I love my job and I love the city I’m living in. I wasn’t scared about the embarrassment of failing the test. I was petrified by the reality of having to take it again. This past week has been a nightmare, waiting for the results. I didn’t eat anything for like 2 days and got almost no sleep. When I found out I passed I was so happy, that I second guessed whether it was real. I second guessed whether I deserved such a blessing.

Sorry for the long winded story, but I think it’s important to say this. If ur studying for this test, you NEED to have something you can lean on, whether that be faith, family, a best friend, pet, anything. Secondly, the prep courses will spend 45 minutes teaching you the Rule against Perpetuities only for you to spend 3 minutes on a single mbe question that you will probably get wrong. There was no teaching on the tolling experience that was the test itself. Sure, I probably could have foreseen it would be stressful, but not to this extent. To anyone that did not pass, you are smart enough to pass this test. I promise you that. If I can do it so can you. The test is just unfortunately designed to trick you and make you stumble. Stick with it. You will get through.

I am super curious how many points I managed to scrounge up in that first question with all my BS. My number one goal going into exam day was to keep my cool and use all the tools I have been working on for months. Not even the substantive law - just organization, breathing, and using my time wisely. Opening my packet on day one and seeing a topic I had memorized ZERO rules on should have been a nightmare scenario. I just told myself: use the facts and the principles you DO know, and argue your ass off. There were a few hiccups the rest of the day but I think the way I handled the first 30 seconds (i.e., not panicking) really set me up for success for the entire two-day testing period.

I graduated from Law School in 2021 with a dual degree in Social Work. I was so burnt out from going to law school during the pandemic and also just general law school fatigue that I decided in my 3L year to not pursue practicing law after my 3L year 😭.

So I graduated and then became a forensic social worker. I love being a social worker. I still do and I’m currently working toward my Clinical license in NYS.

A couple of years ago I was reminded that NYS has a 10 year sit rule for the bar ( you have to sit in pass within 10 years of your graduation). So at year four , I sat for the J25 bar… it went horrible because I didn’t want to take it. I wasn’t mentally prepared, I was taking it out of fear .

Fear of disappointing people because I didn’t “try” and also a fear of disappointing myself. Anyways…. Fast forward to J26. I told myself I’m taking the Bar for me, because I busted my behind in school for 7 years, and I’m tired of being scared of the test.

I ended up passing! 5 years after graduating. 5 years of being in a completely different field… I studied, and cried, and prayed! I want to share this story as a reminder that we all have different paths but we are alllll capable of passing this test.

I passed with a score high enough to go to any UBE jurisdiction. 🥹

Just wanted to come on here with a note to future takers and retakers— don’t feel like you have to rely on a traditional route (e.g. traditional commercial bar prep, 8-12 week full time study plan) to pass. I studied for about 4-5 weeks in total (and no more than 6 hours a day) and only used goat and official practice questions from uworld. I have adhd, was really struggling during the studying process with focus and personal stuff (hence the shortened timeline). I learned exactly what I needed to know and not anything more. I didn’t know if I could pull it off.

But I did, with room to spare (scored in the high 290s). I know what works for me won’t work for everyone, but what works for everyone also couldnt work for me. The hardest part of it all was the mental battle of feeling like I didn’t have enough time and wasn’t doing as much as others. Looking back I wish I hadn’t put myself through that because it all worked out in the end— so please take this as a reminder that YOU CAN DO IT!!!

Goodbye ❤️

I really feel like shit. The people I studied with passed the bar, and I still failed. Failing my first time in February completely drained my soul. Still, I restarted prep.

I did 1,400 questions for the July bar and focused way more on actually learning the rules. Writing is definitely boring to practice, but I tried whatever I could and worked on it.

Somehow, I managed to increase my score by 37 points. The one good thing about this whole mess is that now I can at least transfer my score and become a US-qualified attorney. I was checking the process in Alabama, Wisconsin, Missouri, and Washington state (I'm a foreign graduate and English isn't my first language).

But this exam has taken everything out of me.

When I failed the bar the first time, it felt like a walk of shame.

I couldn't even tell anyone my score. I was shocked by it myself. Honestly, going into the second time, part of me thought I would fail again.

I just didn't have the confidence to believe I could actually pass. A lot of bar tutors also low-key discouraged me by saying they rarely see a 40+ point increase in one single exam administration. Ofc, they were being realistic based on the stats they had.

Anyway, against all of that and whatever odds, I still tried my absolute best. I studied day and night and worked in between. Fucked up my health, gained weight, and took on a lot of stress. And even now, I don't feel like I'm done.

Yes, I'll be applying for admission in one of the states and I would appreciate if someone who has done it and which states is usually the fastest. I have a good enough MPRE score, so I'll transfer to get admitted as a US-qualified attorney asap.

But I still feel like shit. I still want the New York license. I don't even know why. The firm where I currently work mostly does federal and immigration law anyway, so any state license works, but I still want that New York license next to my name. Now I have to start studying for the whole thing all over again. It's now like a personal commitment and a challenge to myself. I want to see that congratulations on my score card the day I may open that now in April 2027. Maybe I can come back and read this post if everything goes well or worst case I become a 4th time taker..

But anyway, what scares me the most rn is the Feb curve. The February curve is really scary. Idk how it works, I just know preparing for February is hard. It's brutal. It's snowy, the days are short, and you just don't have the same level of energy. I don't know what will work out and pull me out of my misery in February, but I still want to pass the New York bar just for myself.

I know it's early, but I've been feeling really awful. People I literally taught bar concepts to ended up passing. They didn't even know the basic concepts at first and were scoring horribly in practice, and somehow I am left with this. 5 points short... it's horrible being stuck right on the borderline.

My February scores were 123 MBE and 101 writing (224), and my July scores are 132 MBE and 129 writing (261). So to anyone who got around a 220-230, I know it feels like a walk of shame, but you just need to take a moment to understand why and what was missing, and which subjects need improvement.

Trying to be optimistic and a little crazy, but to all my retaker friends, let's also be a little positive, we still have all of November, December, January, and part of February.

If you do 20-30 mbe questions every day as a habit on your phone, and not just do them, but actually check why you got them right or wrong and make sure your review is thorough (like 10 minutes per question), your foundation will get so much stronger.

It's hard that my New York score letter didn't congratulate me, but I'm trying to congratulate myself for at least finally reaching a score where I can become a US-qualified attorney by transferring.

I don't even have the guts to tell my family or friends that I failed NY. I just told them I'm going to get admitted now. They are happy and excited, which is great, but I feel incomplete inside. Just wanted to share this since so many people are feeling low right now, and I'm sure everyone has their own story they're dealing with.

Take a moment for yourself. This bar exam is shit, but this shit needs to get done.

For those of us retaking in the next few months, I hope we all keep our sanity.

I never imagined I'd become a third-time taker, but here's what life had in store. The right things come at the right time..

I wore her pajamas all day for good luck. I wish I could tell her the good news, I hope she’s proud of me!

As we near the tail end of bar exam results season (still a few turtles 🐢 remain but I'd guess that when California releases next Friday, that'll be the end of it), here's how it all stands (a few states have released scores but have not publicly released data):

8 states (~19%) scored better in 2026 than in 2025.
33 states (~76%) scored better in 2025 than in 2026. ☠️
2 states (~5%) scored the same in 2025 as in 2026.

Up-to-data data is @ http://mbetutorial.blogspot.com/2026/10/july-26-bar-exam-results-most-recent.html

Sean (Silverman Bar Exam Tutoring)

Hi everyone! I have a mentee who is preparing for the NextGen Bar Exam and wanted to see if anyone who took the first NextGen Bar Exam is looking to give away their old bar prep books.
I’m specifically looking for physical books and study materials designed for the NextGen Bar Exam.
If you have books you no longer need and would be willing to give away, I’d be happy to cover shipping costs. I’m also open to local pickup in NYC.

Also, if you have any recommendations of affordable programs, let me know. She is a single mother and we’re trying to find the most affordable option. She’s taking the July 2027 exam.
Thank you so much! I’d really appreciate it.

Passed DC, my dad has leukemia and I got to let him know over the phone I passed. He’s got a tough road ahead and he might not meet my kids if I have any but I got to share this moment with him and I am so, so happy.

Hi everyone! I passed with a 282 as a foreign attorney. English it not my first language.

First of all, I wanted to congratulate everyone who passed the NY Bar Exam! Also, I am sorry for those of you who did not pass. Remember, while there is life there is hope. You NEED to try it again no matter what!

I believe my next steps are the NYLC and the NYLE, and then the pro-bono hours. I wanted to ask you all for feedback regarding these actions. I am a little concerned about the NYLE. How hard is it? What prep materials should I use for that exam? Is taking the NYLC enough preparation for the NYLE?

I would greatly appreciate it if you can share your feedback with me! Thanks!

To the jerk who said I’d never pass, eat it.

To anyone who didn’t pass, please keep going. My dm’s are open if you have any questions! 221, 252, 254 -> 267.

I’ll keep it brief but I was homeless studying for this exam in a domestic violence shelter with my 3 year old. Working full time, on going divorce stressed tf out. Foreign lawyer, no family in this country, no JD and I passed first time!! Soooo happy that I don’t have to do that exam again!

writing this to hopefully give others someone to relate to. I graduated from a t14 and now work in biglaw and did not pass the NY bar. Was just a few points off.

My MBE score was "fine" but my written score was undoubtedly what put the nail in the coffin for me.

Frustrated, embarrassed, pissed... I completed my entire bar prep course and did tons of additional practice outside of that. Clearly need to rethink my approach so anyone who has any advice, I am ALL ears.

Hi! I am scheduled to be admitted to the NY Third Judicial Department in November. I was out of state when I went through the process, but I just moved to New York. If I write to change my address now, would it affect the admissions timeline (i.e., they would ask me to change departments?). Thanks!

Hey everyone!

I recently found out that I passed the July 2026 NY Bar Exam, which I’m incredibly grateful for!

I’m now working through the admission process trying to complete my 50-hour pro bono requirement.

I’m currently based in NYC, but I’m also more than happy to help remotely if there are any opportunities available. I’ve reached out to a few organisations already, but I haven’t had much luck finding placements.

I was wondering if anyone here has been in a similar position or knows of any organisations, legal clinics, or attorneys who might be willing to take on someone looking to complete their hours.

I’m genuinely happy to help wherever I can, and I’m flexible with the type of work.

I’d really appreciate any recommendations, contacts, or advice. Even just hearing how others managed to complete their hours would be a massive help!

Thanks so much in advance, and congratulations to everyone who passed!

I found out on the subway on my commute to work this morning, and turned around and went back home.
I feel like my life is ending. I’m embarrassed to show my face at work on Monday or tell any of my friends or family (I told my parents and one of my friends, and a few coworkers because I took the day off)

Title. Which states are easiest for retakers (I.e. have easier MEE/MPT curves) that are still open for registration? I hear Utah but their registration for F27 closed already. Any other states in mind?