The state of Illinois will begin accepting scores from the new NextGen Uniform Bar Examination (NextGen UBE), set to be introduced by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) in July 2026. This announcement marks a significant shift in the state’s approach to bar examinations, as the Illinois Board of Admissions to the Bar has confirmed it will first administer the NextGen UBE in February 2028. Until that date, the current version, known as the Legacy Uniform Bar Examination (Legacy UBE), will continue to be the standard.
The NextGen UBE aims to modernize the assessment process for prospective attorneys, incorporating evolving legal standards and practices. The decision to accept these scores reflects Illinois’s commitment to adapting to changes in legal education and practice. The NCBE has developed the new examination in response to feedback from legal educators and practitioners, ensuring it meets the needs of today’s legal landscape.
Under the Legacy UBE framework, a passing score is often recognized as “portable.” This means that individuals who achieve a passing score in one Legacy UBE jurisdiction can typically transfer that score to other jurisdictions that also utilize the Legacy UBE. This portability is a crucial feature for many legal professionals who may seek to practice in multiple states.
As Illinois gears up for this transition, the Board of Admissions is expected to provide additional information on the specifics of the NextGen UBE administration. This includes details on registration, testing locations, and any potential changes to the examination format.
In the interim, candidates preparing for the bar exam can continue to focus on the Legacy UBE, which remains in effect until the new system is rolled out. The Board of Admissions has emphasized the importance of thorough preparation, regardless of which version of the exam candidates will ultimately take.
The introduction of the NextGen UBE is part of a broader trend seen across various jurisdictions aiming to enhance the assessment of legal knowledge and skills. As the legal profession evolves, so too does the need for examinations that accurately reflect the competencies required for effective practice.
Illinois’s decision to embrace the NextGen UBE is a significant step forward for the state’s legal community. It highlights a willingness to innovate and adapt in a rapidly changing environment, ensuring that new attorneys are equipped with the skills necessary to succeed in their careers.
