The MPRE tests your understanding of legal ethics. It’s a 2-hour, 60-multiple-choice question exam developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners. Learn more.
The exam ensures adherence to the ethical standards in the legal profession by assessing your understanding and ability to apply the American Bar Association’s Ethical Standards and mandates as outlined in the Model Rules of Professional Conduct and Model Code of Judicial Conduct.
Admission to almost every U.S. jurisdiction’s bar — except Wisconsin and Puerto Rico — requires a passing MPRE score.
MPRE Subjects and Structure
You have 2 hours to complete 60 multiple-choice questions, 10 of which are ungraded and are being evaluated for future exams. Each question includes a scenario, a prompt, and 4 possible answer choices.
See MPRE Sample Test Questions.
| Subject | Weightage |
|---|---|
| Regulation of the Legal Profession | 6-12% |
| The Client-Lawyer Relationship | 10-16% |
| Client Confidentiality | 6-12% |
| Conflicts of Interest | 12-18% |
| Competence, Legal Malpractice, and Other Civil Liability | 6-12% |
| Litigation and Other Forms of Advocacy | 10-16% |
| Transactions and Communications with Persons Other than Clients | 2-8% |
| Different Roles of the Lawyer | 4-10% |
| Safekeeping Funds and Other Property | 2-8% |
| Communications About Legal Services | 4-10% |
| Lawyer’s Duties to the Public and the Legal System | 2-4% |
| Judicial Conduct | 2-8% |
Check out our MPRE Outline for a deep dive into MPRE subjects.
MPRE Registration, Deadlines, and Fees
The MPRE is a computerized exam administered in March, August, and November at Pearson VUE testing centers nationwide. Schedule your appointment and pay the fee to get your preferred date and center. For information on MPRE-specific testing centers, call Pearson VUE (888-205-1855) or visit their online customer service center.
Registration Process
- Create an NCBE account.
- Select MPRE Registration, complete the NCBE portion, and request your “Authorization to Test.”
- Check email for “Authorization to Test” from Pearson VUE (sent within 24 hours).
- Schedule your test appointment with Pearson VUE and pay the $160 test fee by 11:59 p.m. CT on the registration deadline.
- Check your email for “Confirmation of Pearson Vue Exam Appointment” and “Confirmation of Payment” from Pearson VUE.
Check out our detailed guide on MPRE eligibility registration and fees.
Testing Accommodations
If you have a disability recognized under the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) that requires modification of the testing environment, you must request accommodations when registering for the MPRE through the NCBE. Check the Pearson Vue Comfort Aid List for items not requiring pre-approval.
You must request an accommodation before you request your “Authorization to Test.” If the NCBE accepts your request, an “Accommodation Confirmation” will be posted to your NCBE Account File Cabinet. Contact MPRE Test Accommodations Services ([email protected]) if your determination has not been posted within 25 business days. Be sure your email lists an “Authorization to Test.”
Exam Dates and Registration Deadlines
| 2025 Test Dates | Apply for Accommodations by: | Registration Deadline |
|---|---|---|
| March 26 or 27 | Lapsed | Lapsed |
| Aug. 20 or 21 | April 30 | June 18 |
| Nov. 13 or 14 | July 30 | Sept. 25 |
Fees
| MPRE Fees | |
|---|---|
| Action | Fee |
| Schedule | $160 |
| Reschedule | $25 |
| Cancel | $80 refund |
MPRE Test Day Policies
Some important things to note:
- You may be prohibited from taking the exam if you arrive more than 15 minutes after your appointment.
- You must present a government-issued primary ID and a secondary ID (e.g., credit card, library card, school ID). Both must be original and unexpired.
- You must empty your pockets, remove jewelry and hair accessories, show your ears, roll up your sleeves, and pat yourself down before entering the testing room. Small lockers are provided to store personal items.
- There are no scheduled breaks. If you need to stretch or use the restroom, you must raise your hand and await the test administrator. Your test time will not stop.
Refer to the updated MPRE test day policies for additional information.
MPRE Scoring
The NCBE converts your raw MPRE score into a scaled score ranging from 50 to 150 via equating to ensure fairness across test versions. The statistical process accounts for differences in difficulty compared to past examinations.
See our detailed MPRE pass rates, minimum passing scores, and grading guide.
Free Resources to Prepare for MPRE
Learn to make ethical judgments like a professional attorney and ace the MPRE. Here are some tips on how to prepare:
- Study with practice questions, study guides, and engaging lectures from Themis Bar Review’s free MPRE course.
- Review the MPRE Subject Matter Outline
- Study the Model Rules of Professional Conduct and Model Code of Judicial Conduct
- Memorize MPRE Key Words and Phrases
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
When should you take the MPRE?
Most jurisdictions require that you pass the MPRE within a specified time frame before or after passing the bar exam. Check with your jurisdiction’s Board of Bar website for details.
How difficult is the MPRE?
The MPRE is not as difficult as the law school and bar exams and has a higher pass rate. Its emphasis on legal ethics and responsibility nuances can make it tricky.
How many times can you take the MPRE?
There is no limit to the number of times you can take the MPRE.
