Few things dampen the excitement of graduating law school quite like the realization that a bar exam prep course likely awaits. Traditionally, law graduates face an arduous preparation period after graduation to activate their degrees fully. However, the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE) is offering a lucrative opportunity to change that narrative. According to Reuters, the NCBE is inviting 2,200 of the 46,000 expected July 2024 bar exam takers to participate in a trial run of its revised NextGen Bar exam slated for release in July 2026. The organization is compensating participants $1,500 for a nine-hour commitment spread over two days.
This translates to an approximate hourly rate of $165, prorated annually to $343,200, mirroring the earning potential of successful Biglaw careers post-bar. For many law graduates, this opportunity not only provides financial incentives but also a preview of the imminent changes in legal licensure examinations.
Registration for the trial will be open from August 19th to August 29th, offering a unique financial boost and the chance to influence a crucial component of future legal careers. Further details can be found in a piece published on Above the Law.