The NextGen Bar Exam is coming soon and as our current 1Ls and 2Ls begin thinking about registering for Fall classes, it is helpful to focus on what we do know about this new exam. This exam represents a shift from traditional memorization-heavy testing to an exam that prioritizes legal skills, reasoning, and problem-solving. Therefore, there is no better time for law students to rethink how they prepare — not just in bar prep season, but throughout law school. Here’s what law students can do now to set themselves up for success.
- Focus on Skills, Not Just Rules
The NextGen exam will test legal research, writing, and client interaction in ways the current bar exam does not. Instead of memorization for your classes, start thinking about how you apply the law in real-world scenarios. Practice statutory interpretation, issue-spotting in real-world fact patterns, and crafting concise legal arguments.
- Develop Strong Legal Writing & Research Skills
The NextGen exam will emphasize writing clear, concise legal arguments, similar to what a young lawyer would produce. Use IRAC (Issue, Rule, Application, Conclusion) when writing law school exam answers. Seek out opportunities to practice legal research (e.g., working with Lexis or Westlaw) since research-based tasks will be a major component.
- Engage in Active Learning, Not Passive Review
Prioritize active learning strategies, such as: practicing hypotheticals that integrate multiple subjects; engaging in peer discussions to articulate legal reasoning; using self-testing methods like flashcards or practice quizzes to reinforce understanding.
- Practice with Performance-Based Assessments
The NextGen exam will mimic real-world lawyering tasks, so students should practice working with statutes, case law, and client scenarios. Participate in clinics, legal writing courses, or moot court to build hands-on skills. Seek out practice questions that require reasoning through a client’s legal issue rather than just picking a multiple-choice answer.
- Start Early: The NextGen Exam Rewards Long-Term Skill Development
Success on the NextGen Bar Exam isn’t about cramming—it’s about building legal skills over time. Law students should focus on courses and experiences that develop legal reasoning, writing, and problem-solving from 1L year onward. The earlier students shift their study habits, the more prepared they will be when bar prep officially begins.
While the NextGen Bar Exam is definitely a shift — it is also an opportunity to focus on the real skills lawyers need. Law students who begin adapting now will be better positioned for success when the new format officially arrives.
(Erica Sylvia, UMass Law)
