how to pay for bar prep course

Full Answer

Can I negotiate the cost of the bar study course?

Many students hired directly out of law school by major law firms have successfully negotiated the cost of the bar study course in their compensation package. Major firms tend to have large hiring budgets and can afford such expenses. Some firms even provide living expenses in addition to the cost of the course.

How much does it cost to take the bar exam?

In that case, you will have to take the Bar exam again, and the cost may be higher than when you first took it. Using Florida as an example again, licensed attorneys have to pay $1600 there in order to take the Bar examination.

How can I get a bar review course loan?

Test takers need to offset costs by seeking assistance to finance the bar review course. Sallie Mae is a source for loans for students taking bar review courses. Borrowers can use the money for the cost of the bar review course as well as living expenses while they spend the summer studying, up to $15,000 at the time of publication.

Do you need to pass the MPRE to take the bar?

Furthermore, some states even require that you have a passing MPRE score before you can take the Bar exam. The MPRE is a 60 question test based on laws governing the conduct of lawyers.

How do people afford bar Prep?

Alternatives to a bar exam loanEmployer support: If you have a new job lined up with a law firm, they might be willing to cover your bar exam fees and prep courses.Scholarships or grants: If you've recently graduated from law school, you might qualify for grants or scholarships that can help you pay for the bar exam.More items...•

What is the cheapest bar prep course?

Value: At just under $2,000, BarMax Bar Exam Review's comprehensive state course price is much lower than the competition. The price also includes lifetime access to audio lectures, corresponding black-letter law outlines, and flashcards.

Are bar prep courses worth it?

You are more likely to pass. With a bar prep course, you are more likely to pass the bar exam. You will have materials and questions at your disposal and you will receive feedback and be able to make sure you are on track. You can ask questions when you are confused and get any areas of law clarified.

How much does Kaplan bar Prep cost?

Kaplan Bar Review Course InformationFeaturesAdditional FeaturesPricing7 day Multistate Bar Exam (MBE) PreparationLectures available in-person and onlineComplete Course: $1,895 – $3,59536 day lecture for subject review and practiceAsk-an-Expert support is included for additional questionsCombination Course Price: $10492 more rows

Which bar prep has the highest pass rate?

Pass rates: Both Themis and Barbri offer strong pass rates, with about 85-90% for first-time test takers. Average pass rates are higher when students have completed more of the program.

What is the most popular bar prep course?

Best Bar Review Courses SummaryBest Overall Bar Review Course: BarMax.Best Value Bar Review Course: Quimbee.Most Bar Study Material: Kaplan.The Conservative Pick: Barbri.Best Supplemental Bar Course: Bar Prep Hero.Best Bar Exam Outlines: Smart Bar Prep.Best For Efficient Bar Study: AdaptiBar.

Is Barbri enough?

Yes, absolutely. In fact, Barbri is set up to be MORE than enough (i.e. more than you should reasonably be able to do - they even TELL you that). They say that if you are doing about 75% of what they assign, you're doing enough. Towards the end, you figure out your weak spots and focus on those anyway.

Is Themis or Barbri better?

Barbri provides much better essay materials. The book of essays and examples is great. Themis graded more essays, but I didn't feel like I had as many outlines to review and learn. If you don't feel like you are a good technical writer, Barbri's materials are decent.

How do you pass Barbri bar?

How should you study for the bar exam? Some bar exam learning strategies from BARBRI, the bar prep expertsStudy broad, not deep.Measure what matters.Approach the MBE systematically.Develop your writing skills.Use the MPT to pick up points.Tackle hard MBE questions head on.

How many hours is Barbri bar prep?

The course lasts 8-10 weeks, and the average student should expect to spend about 40 hours per week studying.

How is Kaplan bar Prep?

Kaplan's bar review curriculum is undeniably thorough and high-quality. Crafted by their team of licensed attorneys, in-house MBE experts and knowledgeable instructors, the Kaplan study plan will absolutely leave you prepared for the exam if completed.

How do I pass the California bar exam?

If you receive a score at or over 1440, you automatically pass the California bar exam. If, after one reading of your answers, your score is below 1390, you fail the California bar exam. If your score is 1390 or greater but less than 1440, you will get a “second read” by a different set of graders.

How To Ask Your Firm To Pay For Bar Exam Preparation

The best way to ask your firm to pay for bar exam preparation is as follows.

Looking to Pass the Uniform Bar Exam?

A five-star UBE course (for as low as $1099.99!) that provides you with the best instruction, outlines, and questions. Preview our course for free here!

What states does AmeriBar offer bar exam prep?

AmeriBar provides bar exam prep courses in 40 states (not available in Delaware, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Massachusetts, Oklahoma, Rhode Island, Tennessee, Virginia and Wisconsin). Its Bar Review courses and UBE courses cover all aspects of the exam, but its section-specific courses may be a better fit if you only need to review a certain portion. You can mix and match them as needed to build a custom program just for you. All courses are self-paced, but they include unlimited phone support and the option to purchase private tutoring if you need extra help.

How many questions are asked in the MPRE?

Most states also require applicants to take the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (MPRE). This is a 60-question multiple-choice ethics exam that runs for two hours. It’s administered three times per year in March, August and November. Some states require you to have a passing MPRE score before you sit for the bar exam, so check with your state bar to see if this is a requirement for you. Most bar prep companies offer free MPRE courses as well, so you can start with one of these before moving onto a traditional bar prep course.

How many states are there in the MEE?

The Multistate Essay Examination (MEE) is a six-question essay exam that takes place over three hours. This test is administered in 26 states and can cover everything from family law and federal civil procedure to secured transactions and trusts. This test is usually paired with the MPT and takes place on the day before the MBE.

What states does Barmax cover?

Its MBE course covers the general portion of the exam in all states except Louisiana. California residents have the option of purchasing a special course tailored to them for the same price as the UBE course.

What is the MPT test?

The Multistate Performance Test (MPT) consists of three 90-minute skills questions designed to measure your ability to use lawyering skills and concepts in real scenarios. These questions test your ability to analyze a situation, organize information, solve problems and communicate your solutions to others. It is usually taken on the same day as the MEE — the last Tuesday in February or July.

How long is themis bar review?

Themis Bar Review was built to accommodate a busy lifestyle. The curriculum is spread out over eight weeks, as opposed to some other courses that cram all classes into a month and a half. You can reinforce what you learn in the classroom with a series of short on-demand videos and test your knowledge with 2,500 practice MBE questions and three practice exams. The course will adapt as you go, always targeting the areas where you need the most help to ensure you’re using your time effectively. Courses are available for all states except Louisiana, Mississippi, Nevada, Oklahoma, South Dakota and Wisconsin.

How many classes does Kaplan offer?

Kaplan offers comprehensive self-paced, live online and in-person bar prep courses to residents of all states. Live courses include 32 classes ranging from four to seven hours per day and full access to Kaplan ’s online study materials. Students interested in a self-paced bar prep course have several options.

Why do law schools partner with bar prep companies?

Many law schools feel increasing pressure to help their students pass the bar exam. Hence, many have partnered with various bar exam prep companies and others to offer students greater access to resources.

Do bar programs cover prep?

If you’ve found your groove and have been placed with a firm, check with your employer if they’d be willing to cover the cost of your prep. Many competitive firms will provide this assistance if it means securing a good applicant to fill an in-demand practice area. Furthermore, some bar programs provide a discounted rate when an employer pays.

Is Amazon a good source for bar prep?

For individuals skipping bar prep courses or those who are wanting to supplement their studies, Amazon is a great resource for used or new bar exam prep materials. You can also scout out a local book exchange or check with your law school’s bookstore for some lower-cost study options.

Does Barbri offer scholarships?

For example, Barbri offers a scholarship for students going into public interest law. Additionally, many law schools have scholarship applications that help you apply to multiple scholarships that are available through the school even after you are enrolled and have your base financial aid package.

What happens if you don't work for the bar?

If you aren’t working when studying for the Bar exam you may be forced to take out loans to pay for living expenses. These are actually quite common and are referred to as bar loans: used to cover fees for prep courses, exams, and living expenses. That being said, there are also hidden costs associated with bar loans.

How much does MPRE cost?

It costs $125 if you register for it by the regular deadline, and $220 for late registration. Additionally, registration fees for the MPRE must be paid for via credit card and is not refundable.

How much does it cost to register for the bar?

Registration For The Bar. Registration for the Bar exam itself varies from state to state. Prices can range from as low as $150 to $1500. This money is paid directly to the state’s Board of Law Examiners or equivalent. However, location isn’t the only thing that impacts costs.

What happens if you fail the bar exam?

If you’ve failed the exam and are trying again, some states will charge less. An example of this is Florida, which charges $1000 dollars for its test, but only $450 for repeaters. Furthermore, although many states allow you to practice with your license in other states, some do not. In that case, you will have to take the Bar exam again, ...

Do you have to take the MPRE before you can get into the bar?

Furthermore, some states even require that you have a passing MPRE score before you can take the Bar exam .

Do law firms pay for bar exam?

Many law firms have policies where they will pay Bar review course fees for prospective employees. This means that if you’ve already gotten post graduation job offers you may be able to request that they pay for your Bar exam study materials. However, not every firm will be receptive to the idea.

Is the bar exam expensive?

However, there are many ways to mitigate costs. Most fees are dependent upon how far ahead of the filing deadline you register. Therefore, you should make sure that you prepare for your Bar exam well ahead of time and keep an eye out for hidden costs.

Bar Study Loan

Citizens Bank is one of the U.S.’s largest banks and offers a variety of loans online. One of these is the company’s bar exam study loan, available to recent law school grads or enrolled students preparing for the bar exam. Here is some information about Citizens Bank’s bar exam study loans:

What is a Bar Study Loan?

Bar study loans are private student loans specifically intended for law school graduates who are preparing for the bar exam. These are offered only by private lenders—the Department of Education doesn’t provide any federal student loans for graduates who need time to study for the bar.

Benefits of Bar Loans

Bar study loans provide the flexibility to study for the bar without worrying about how you’ll pay for school or bar prep programs.

Downsides of Bar Loans

There are also some downsides of bar loans you need to be aware of, including the following:

Alternatives to Bar Study Loans

If you don’t want to take out bar study loans, you have other options including:

Bottom Line: Bar Study Loans Can Make Studying for the Bar Possible

You don’t want to worry about money when you’re trying to pass the bar exam. Bar study loans can make it possible for you to focus on preparing for the test without working or stressing about how to pay for courses or educational materials you need to become a lawyer.

What is Barbri tuition assistance?

BarBri created the Tuition Assistance Program designed to help supplement bar review tuition for graduating students. Through this platform, donors can pay for all or a portion of the costs for students to take a bar review course. Donors can set qualifications for these grants. For example, LexisNexis & Morrison Foerster have provided funds through the program for select New York University students. To be eligible for the funds, students must be interested in taking BARBRI review course and have indicated an desire to work in the public interest sector upon graduation. Other donors may have different eligibility requirements. Contact the law school's financial office for details concerning program availability and eligibility.

What is Barbri and Kaplan PMBR?

BarBri and Kaplan PMBR are two major providers of the comprehensive bar review course. Most law students become familiar with these companies from the first day they arrive on a law school's campus, because student representatives set up information tables or post contact fliers on bulletin boards around the school.

What is Sallie Mae loan?

Sallie Mae is a source for loans for students taking bar review courses. Borrowers can use the money for the cost of the bar review course as well as living expenses while they spend the summer studying, up to $15,000 at the time of publication.

What is a barbri rep?

The main perk of being a BarBri or PMBR representative is that by meeting certain goals for signing up students to take the course, the rep can earn a free class.

How much does a bar review cost?

A bar review course costs $1,500 to $3,000, at the time of publication, depending upon which company test takers use and the state in which they're taking the bar. Due to the time demands, it is best not to be employed while studying for the bar. Thus, for several weeks, those sitting for the bar may have no income.

Do major firms have large hiring budgets?

Major firms tend to have large hiring budgets and can afford such expenses. Some firms even provide living expenses in addition to the cost of the course. When it comes to negotiations those expenses, Stephanie Mitchell of Lewis and Clark Law School in Portland, Ore., suggests, "Assume all things are negotiable.".

How long does it take to get a forbearance from Discover?

Borrowers must apply within six months of graduation from law school. Forbearance options: Up to 12 months of forbearance available. Discover also offers several additional hardship options, including a three-month suspension of payments for borrowers early in the repayment cycle and a six-month reduced payment option.

How long does it take to get out of Sallie Mae?

Sallie Mae provides several useful features to bar study loan borrowers, including a short time period before the co-signer can be released from the loan (12 months) and the opportunity to make interest-only payments for 12 to 24 months. International students can apply with a U.S. citizen co-signer.

How long does it take to get a bar study loan?

You generally qualify for a bar study loan if you’re currently in your last year of law school and planning to graduate, or if you graduated within the past six to 12 months. Depending on the lender, you’ll be required to take the bar exam within six or 12 months after graduating.

Why are fixed rates better than variable rates?

Fixed rates are a safer bet to choose over variable rates because they won’t increase over time. If you opt for a variable rate, you could receive a lower initial rate on a bar loan than on a personal loan—but you’ll run the risk of your rate climbing in the future.

Is a personal loan higher than a bar loan?

While personal loan rates can reach much higher than bar loan rates (up to 36% in some cases), the most creditworthy borrowers could qualify for lower fixed rates with a personal loan than with a bar study loan. Fixed rates are a safer bet to choose over variable rates because they won’t increase over time.

Does Discover have late fees?

Discover charges no fees, including late fees, on its bar study loan. It also offers multiple hardship repayment options beyond traditional forbearance, including reduced payments for a period of time if you need them.

Is a bar study loan the same as a student loan?

Bar study loans aren’t the same as student loans; in fact, they’re private personal loans that lenders categorize specifically for bar preparation. You should explore other alternatives that could end up being cheaper, like scholarships or traditional personal loans.

How long does it take to read a bar outlines?

The outlines that are 50 or less pages can usually be tackled within one day, while the bigger outlines may need to be broken up into two to three days. Count Your Weekdays: Determine how many weekdays you have until the bar exam, you should have roughly twice as many weekdays until the exam than you have days of reading.

Why is the bar exam intimidating?

The intense bar exam study regiment is intimidating enough to scare many students into paying for bar prep courses simply because the don't know "how much studying is enough". The fear of the unknown is a powerful force, but fear of the bar exam is stronger yet; thus many law students willingly pay companies to tell them how much they need ...

What do law schools provide?

Many law schools provide assistance and services to their graduates who are studying for the bar exam. A professor may be made available for the grading of practice essays, or lectures might be provided which covering exam tips and tricks.

Can I pass the bar exam without a commercial course?

Once these materials are obtained, though, you are on level footing with all of your peers and are on your way to passing the bar exam.

Do MBE outlines come with practice questions?

Most commercial outlines will come with practice questions, but if not, you may have to buy a used book of questions online. MBE Practice Questions: If these practice questions to not come with your second-hand study materials, you can find them used much more easily than the state-specific books.

Do state law outlines need to be brand new?

These outlines do not need to be brand new, and even if published years earlier, they should still be mostly accurate. To be sure, though, simply ask your professors whether any major changes in the states law have occurred since the date of publish and note those changes.

Do you need to spend thousands on a commercial course to get outlines?

While these outlines are essential, you do not need to spend thousands on a commercial course to obtain them.