The California State Bar has entered into an $8.25 million, five-year contract with Kaplan, aimed at developing a new state-specific bar exam. This agreement signals a shift away from the conventional national standardized test format towards a custom-tailored California Bar Exam. The contract, signed on Tuesday, is part of a broader effort to facilitate a transition to remote and hybrid models of exam delivery, addressing both traditional and evolving needs within legal education and professional qualification.
The collaboration with Kaplan encompasses the development of multiple-choice, essay, and performance test questions, as well as the creation of study guides tailored for both faculty and students. A key aspect of the agreement is its provision for cost-sharing in the event of any copyright litigation pertaining to the exam content. This financial safeguard is crucial given the California State Bar’s admissions fund is projecting insolvency by 2026.
The new exam format is anticipated to streamline operational costs and enhance the overall efficiency of the bar’s admissions process. For further details, the complete article is available here.