2025 Bar Exam Costs | Fees, Courses, and Smart Ways to Save

Break Down of Bar Exam Costs and Fees

Here are the main costs you may encounter, from application and late fees to character assessments, laptop charges, and bar review courses. Understanding each of these expenses will help you budget effectively.

Application Fee

This is the primary fee required to register for the bar exam. It varies significantly based on jurisdiction and whether you're a first-time taker, retaker, or attorney. First-time takers can expect to pay anywhere from $100 to over $1,000, while fees for attorney applicants are often higher. Re-takers may face similar or slightly reduced fees compared to first-time applicants.

Late Fee

Most states offer a reduced rate for early filing, with higher fees applied for late applications. Late fees can range from $50 to several hundred dollars, depending on how late the application is submitted. Early registration is recommended to avoid these additional costs.

Character and Fitness (C&F) Evaluation Fees

Every jurisdiction requires a character and fitness assessment to confirm that candidates meet ethical standards for legal practice. In some states, this assessment must be completed before sitting for the bar exam. The fee for this process typically ranges from $100 to $500 and may either be part of the application fee or charged separately. 

Many jurisdictions use the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE®) to manage these assessments, in which case you’ll need an account to pay the fee through their website.

Background Check Fee

In addition to the C&F evaluation, some states require a separate background check, which can be a standalone fee. This fee usually ranges from $50 to $200, covering costs associated with criminal records and verification checks.

Laptop Fee

Many jurisdictions allow candidates to use a laptop for the essay portion of the exam. This convenience usually comes with a fee, typically between $100 and $150, covering software licensing and setup costs.

Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE®) Registration Fee 

Candidates must often pass the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE®) before or after the bar exam, depending on the state. The MPRE registration fee is generally around $150 per attempt.

Miscellaneous Fees

Additional expenses may include travel and accommodation costs if the exam location is distant, health and safety fees at test centers, and fees for rescheduling or deferring the exam. These costs vary widely but can add up, especially if overnight stays are necessary.

Bar Review Course Costs

While not required, bar review courses are a common and often necessary expense. Depending on the provider and level of support, these courses range from $1,000 to over $4,000 and include materials like practice exams, study guides, and exam-level questions.