Virgin Islands Bar Exam | The Ultimate Guide (2026-27)

Get ready for the 2026 Virgin Islands Bar Exam. The February 2026 exam follows the legacy Uniform Bar Examination (UBE®), while the July 2026 exam marks the transition to the NextGen UBE. Learn exam dates, costs, scores, pass rates, results, requirements, subjects, and practice with sample questions.
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The Virgin Islands: Home of the VI Bar Exam

Beginning July 2026, the Virgin Islands will transition to the NextGen Uniform Bar Examination (NextGen UBE®), a modernized version of the UBE developed by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE®). The NextGen UBE assesses both core legal knowledge and practical lawyering skills through integrated multiple-choice, short-answer, and performance tasks within each session to better reflect real-world practice.

The February 2026 exam, however, will follow the legacy UBE®, which consists of 3 components: the Multistate Bar Examination (MBE®), the Multistate Essay Examination (MEE®), and the Multistate Performance Test (MPT®).

This guide provides essential information about the Virgin Islands Bar Exam, including dates, deadlines, fees, applications, results, pass rates, requirements, and preparation tips.ps.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam Structure

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam (February 2026) will be held on the last Tuesday and Wednesday of February, with about six hours of testing each day. This will be the final administration of the legacy UBE before the jurisdiction transitions to the NextGen UBE in July 2026.

Virgin Islands Feb. 2026 Bar Exam Structure
Session Tuesday Wednesday
Morning
(3-hour session)		 2 MPTs 100 MBE multiple-choice questions
Afternoon
(3-hour session)		 6 essay questions 100 MBE multiple-choice questions

Under the NextGen UBE (July 2026 and Beyond):

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam will be administered over 1.5 days, divided into three 3-hour sessions, 2 on Day 1 and one on Day 2. Each session features a mix of question types assessing both legal knowledge and practical skills.

The exam includes:

  • Stand-alone multiple-choice questions, integrated question sets, and a performance task.
  • Foundational legal subjects.
  • Core lawyering skills.

All testing will be conducted on candidates' laptops at proctored test centers.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam Dates, Requirements, and Scheduling

Stay ahead of deadlines and avoid late fees by preparing your application materials early. The table below outlines the current filing dates and key requirements for the Virgin Islands Bar Exam. Additional details and updated rules for the NextGen UBE will be released closer to the July 2026 administration.

Exam Dates

Filing Periods Exam Dates First Deadline Late Deadline
February 2026
(Legacy UBE)		 Feb. 24-25, 2026 Dec. 1, 2025 Jan. 2, 2026
July 2026
(NextGen UBE Begins)		 July 28-29, 2026 TBD TBD

Requirements

To be eligible for the Virgin Islands Bar Exam, whether the Legacy UBE or NextGen UBE, applicants must meet the following general requirements:

  • Good Moral Character: You must demonstrate good moral character and fitness to practice law.
  • Legal Education: You must hold a Juris Doctorate (JD) from a law school accredited by the American Bar Association (ABA).
  • Bar Standing in Other Jurisdictions: If you have been admitted to the bar in another jurisdiction, you must be in good standing there.

Scheduling

To register for and schedule your Virgin Islands Bar Exam, you must complete several mandatory steps in coordination with the NCBE and the Virgin Islands Committee of Bar Examiners. These steps apply to both the February 2026 (Legacy UBE) and July 2026 onward (NextGen UBE) administrations.

Common Scheduling Steps (Legacy and NextGen)

  1. Create an NCBE Account

    2. Every examinee must have an active NCBE Account. Your NCBE number is required for all communications, registration, and exam access. Keep your account information current and check it regularly for updates.

  2. Register with the Virgin Islands Jurisdiction

    3. Although the NCBE develops and delivers the exam, official registration begins with the Virgin Islands Supreme Court Committee of Bar Examiners. Submit your electronic application, supporting documents, and fees through the jurisdiction's online portal by the published deadlines. Each jurisdiction verifies eligibility before forwarding approved examinees to the NCBE.

  3. Request Test Accommodations (if applicable)

    4. All accommodation requests must be submitted directly to the Virgin Islands Committee of Bar Examiners, following its forms, documentation requirements, and deadlines.

Additional Scheduling Steps for the NextGen UBE (July 2026 and Beyond)

In addition to the steps above, candidates taking the NextGen UBE must complete specific technology and readiness requirements through their NCBE Account.

  1. Complete NCBE Pre-Exam Requirements

    2. Before exam day, all examinees must:

    • Accept the Candidate Agreement (exam policies and conduct).
    • Pay the $149 NCBE Technology Fee (separate from jurisdiction fees).
    • Install the secure testing browser on the laptop to be used on exam day.
    • Complete the Exam Tutorial and System Compatibility Check to confirm technical readiness.

    All steps must be completed no later than 72 hours before exam day; failure to do so will result in ineligibility to sit for the exam.

  2. Laptop-Based Testing

    3. The NextGen UBE is administered on examinees' own laptops in proctored test centers. The secure browser ensures exam security and stability throughout testing.

After registration, applicants will receive confirmation and detailed instructions from the Virgin Islands Committee of Bar Examiners regarding exam logistics and testing center information.

Virgin Islands NextGen Bar Exam Cost and Fees

Application Type Fee
First-time Applicant $1,100
Repeat Applicant $500
Attorney Applicant $1,475
UBE Transfer $1,000
Admission on Motion $2,000
UBE Transfer w/ NCBE character investigation Schedule
Laptop Fee (legacy) $150 (subject to update for NextGen)
NextGen Technology Fee (NCBE) $149 (paid via NCBE Account)

Payment Policies

All fees must be paid in full when submitting your Virgin Islands Bar Admission Application, or your application will be denied.

  • Jurisdictional fees (exam, attorney, motion, transfer) are paid directly through the Virgin Islands Judiciary Electronic Filing System.
  • The $149 NCBE Technology Fee must be paid separately through your NCBE Account to complete registration for the NextGen UBE.
  • The Virgin Islands Judiciary also accepts check, money order, or certified check payable to the “Supreme Court of the Virgin Islands” if electronic payment is unavailable.

Keep copies of all payment confirmations for your records.

Cost-saving options

  • The Almeric L. Christian Scholarship provides grants to permanent Virgin Islands residents attending an ABA-approved law school.
  • Browse the AccessLex Institute Law School Scholarship Databank.
  • Check out the American Bar Association's (ABA) website, which offers 100+ opportunities and programs for young lawyers and law students.
  • Join a study group and split the cost of bar exam preparation materials among group members.
  • Research free or low-cost study online study materials like past bar exam questions and answers to supplement commercial study aids.
  • Some bar exam prep companies offer discounts or promotions to students who register early or refer friends to their program.
Brad T., a UWorld student, recommends UWorld’s MBE QBank for its unmatched answer explanations. Click here to start your free trial.
Brad T., a UWorld student, recommends UWorld’s MBE QBank for its unmatched answer explanations. Click here to start your free trial.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam Subjects and Topics

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam evaluates applicants' understanding of legal principles and practical lawyering skills. In 2026, the exam subjects and format will depend on your test date:

  • February 2026 — Legacy UBE (MPT + MEE + MBE)
  • July 2026 onward — NextGen UBE (3 integrated sections over 1.5 days)

The February 2026 exam will test knowledge across separate MBE, MEE, and MPT components, while the July 2026 exam integrates all question types into a single practice-based format.

MPT

The MPT assesses your ability to carry out practical legal tasks in a simulated environment. You'll complete two 90-minute tasks set in a fictional jurisdiction known as "Franklin," which operates under its own legal framework — distinct from U.S. and Connecticut laws.

Each task provides comprehensive documents, including relevant and irrelevant information. Success requires critical thinking and a solid grasp of essential legal principles.

MPT Abilities Tested
Sort through the detailed factual materials Separate relevant/irrelevant facts
Analyze statutes, cases, and administrative materials Identify and resolve ethical dilemmas
Communicate effectively in writing Complete a lawyering task within time constraints

Learn More

MEE

The MEE consists of 6 essay questions. Each question involves 1 or more of the subjects listed below. Some subjects may be paired together, and others could be omitted. While it's impossible to know which subjects the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE®) will choose for any given exam version, some have been tested more frequently than others historically.

For example, Civil Procedure has appeared on nearly every MEE in the past decade, while Criminal Law has only appeared a few times. However, subjects that occur less frequently on their own may be paired with others.

MEE Subjects
Business Associations Evidence
Civil Procedure Family Law
Conflicts of Law Real Property
Constitutional Law Secured Transactions
Contracts Torts
Criminal Law & Procedure Trusts & Estates

Learn More

MBE

The MBE assesses your ability to apply fundamental legal principles and reasoning to fact patterns across 7 areas of law. Of the 200 multiple-choice questions, only 175 are scored, while 25 serve as unscored field tests for future exams.

MBE Subjects
Civil Procedure Constitutional Law
Contracts Criminal Law and Procedure
Evidence Real Property
Torts

Learn More

The Virgin Islands NextGen Bar Exam evaluates applicants' readiness for law practice by testing core legal knowledge and lawyering skills in realistic, practice-based scenarios.

Rather than dividing the exam into separate MEE, MPT, and MBE components, the NextGen UBE integrates all question types, multiple-choice, short-answer, and performance tasks, within a single exam structure.

Candidates will be assessed on their ability to:

  • Apply foundational legal principles to practical situations.
  • Analyze facts, identify legal issues, and reason effectively.
  • Communicate clearly in written legal tasks.
  • Use legal resources to support well-reasoned conclusions.
Foundational Concepts and Principles Foundational Skills Tested
Business Associations and Relationships Legal research
Civil Procedure Legal writing
Constitutional Law Issue spotting and analysis
Contract Law Investigation and evaluation
Criminal Law and Constitutional Protections of Accused Persons Client counseling and advising
Evidence Negotiation and dispute resolution
Real Property Client relationship and management
Torts

NextGen Assessment Format

  • Integrated modules with multiple-choice, short-answer, and performance-based questions within each testing session.
  • Tasks drawn from real-world practice, such as drafting a client memo, interpreting evidence, or applying procedural rules.
  • Open-resource elements, where examinees may use provided materials (statutes, case excerpts, or exhibits) to solve problems.

The new format focuses on application and reasoning, skills essential for entry-level legal professionals.

UWorld MBE Sample Questions

Quality speaks for itself. Try some of our free MBE sample questions below.

Select a Question sample.

Select a Question sample.

A husband and wife were married in State A and lived there for 10 years before separating. One month later, the wife permanently moved to State B and immediately filed for divorce in a federal court in State B. The wife claims that she is entitled to $300,000 in alimony. The husband appeared in the action and has filed a motion to dismiss for lack of subject-matter jurisdiction.

Should the court grant the motion?

  1. No, because the court has diversity jurisdiction over the case.
  2. No, because the husband waived a subject-matter jurisdiction challenge by appearing in the case.
  3. Yes, because state courts have exclusive jurisdiction over this type of action.
  4. Yes, because the wife did not establish a domicile in State B.
Submit Next Question

Explanation:

Federal diversity jurisdiction exceptions

Federal courts cannot exercise diversity jurisdiction over cases involving:

  • probate matters (eg, authenticating wills, administering estates) or
  • domestic relations (eg, issuing divorce, alimony, or child-custody decrees)

A federal court must possess subject-matter jurisdiction to hear the merits of a case before it. Subject-matter jurisdiction can be established through either:

  • federal-question jurisdiction – when a claim arises under the U.S. Constitution, a treaty, or federal law (not seen here) or
  • diversity jurisdiction – when the amount in controversy exceeds $75,000 and the opposing parties are citizens of different states.

Here, diversity jurisdiction is established since the wife claims that she is entitled to $300,000 and the parties are citizens of different states (States A and B). However, federal courts cannot exercise diversity jurisdiction over cases involving probate matters or domestic relations. Instead, state courts have exclusive jurisdiction over these types of actions (Choice A).* Therefore, the husband's motion to dismiss should be granted.

*The probate and domestic-relations exceptions exist because states have a strong interest in these substantive areas and are more qualified to deal with the constant judicial involvement these types of cases require.

(Choice B) A challenge to subject-matter jurisdiction is never waived. However, a challenge to personal jurisdiction is waived if the defendant has voluntarily appeared in the case, unless it was a special appearance for the express purpose of objecting to personal jurisdiction.

(Choice D) An individual is a citizen of the state where he/she is domiciled—ie, physically present with the intent to remain indefinitely. Since the wife permanently moved to State B, she has established her domicile there.

Educational objective:
Federal courts cannot exercise diversity jurisdiction over cases involving probate matters or domestic relations. Instead, state courts have exclusive jurisdiction over these types of cases.

Bluebook Citations :

  • Ankenbrandt v. Richards, 504 U.S. 689, 703–04 (1992) (explaining the domestic-relations exception to diversity jurisdiction).

A congressional committee investigated the pharmaceutical industry and found that the high cost of prescription drugs purchased and sold in the United States negatively impacted the nation's economy and the health of its citizens. In response, Congress passed a statute that regulates "the retail prices of every purchase or sale of prescription drugs in the United States."

A group of pharmaceutical companies challenged the constitutionality of this statute in federal court.

What is the strongest argument in support of the constitutionality of this statute?

  1. Congress may enact statutes for the general welfare.
  2. Congress may regulate the prices of all domestic purchases and sales of goods.
  3. The Constitution grants Congress the power to regulate the interstate transportation of prescription drugs.
  4. The purchases and sales of prescription drugs in the United States substantially impact interstate commerce in the aggregate.
Submit Next Question

Explanation:

Commerce clause challenge

The commerce clause gives Congress broad power to regulate interstate and foreign commerce. This includes:

  • the channels of interstate and foreign commerce (eg, roadways)
  • the instrumentalities of interstate and foreign commerce (eg, vehicles)
  • persons and things moving in interstate or foreign commerce (eg, goods and services) and
  • in-state activities that, singly or in the aggregate, substantially impact interstate or foreign commerce.

Since Congress's commerce power is broad, federal statutes are constitutional if there is any rational basis for concluding that the regulated activity substantially affects interstate or foreign commerce. This can be shown through express congressional findings.

Here, the federal statute regulates the retail prices of prescription drugs in the United States. Congress has the authority to regulate such products' interstate transportation, but this statute also regulates in-state purchases and sales (Choice C). Since the congressional committee found that the high cost of prescription drugs negatively impacted the nation's economy, it is rational to conclude that their aggregated in-state purchases and sales substantially impact interstate commerce. Therefore, this is the strongest argument to support this statute.

(Choice A) The taxing and spending clause empowers Congress to tax and spend for the general welfare. But regulating prices is not equivalent to taxing or spending.

(Choice B) Congress cannot regulate the prices of every domestic purchase and sale of goods since it cannot regulate purely in-state sales that do not substantially affect interstate commerce.

Educational objective:
The commerce clause empowers Congress to regulate (1) channels and instrumentalities of, (2) persons and things moving in, and (3) in-state activities that—singly or in the aggregate—substantially affect interstate or foreign commerce.

Bluebook Citations :

  • Gonzales v. Raich, 545 U.S. 1, 17 (2005) (explaining Congress's broad authority under the commerce clause).

The owner of a new office building contracted with a well-known landscaper to design and install landscaping around the building for $30,000. The agreement was memorialized in writing, was signed by both parties, and called for a budget of $5,000 for trees, shrubs, sod, and materials. The contract required the landscaper to complete the work within six months. Due to an unexpected increase in the price of trees and shrubs, the landscaper abandoned the project and never completed any of the work.

Three years after the landscaper's deadline, the building owner sued the landscaper for breach of contract. In the jurisdiction, the statute of limitations for breach of a services contract is two years after the breach, and the statute of limitations for breach of a sale-of-goods contract is four years.

Can the owner recover damages from the landscaper?

  1. No, because the contract is divisible with respect to the services and goods, and the landscaper's breach is therefore subject to the two-year statute of limitations.
  2. No, because the contract primarily calls for services, and the landscaper's breach is therefore subject to the two-year statute of limitations.
  3. Yes, because the landscaper's breach was a result of an increase in the price of goods, and his breach is therefore subject to the four-year statute of limitations.
  4. Yes, because the landscaper's breach was willful, and he is therefore estopped from denying that his breach is subject to the four-year statute of limitations.
Submit Next Question
Factors for determining contract's predominant purpose

Contracts for the sale of goods are governed by Article 2 of the Uniform Commercial Code (UCC), while contracts for services are governed by common law. However, some contracts involve the sale of goods and the rendering of services. To determine which law applies to a "mixed" or "hybrid" contract, courts ask whether its predominant purpose was the sale of goods or the rendering of services. The following factors are relevant to this determination:

  • The contract's language
  • The nature of the supplier's business (ie, whether it typically provides goods or services)
  • The relative value of the goods and services
  • The nature of the final product (ie, whether it can be described as a good or service)

Here, the building owner contracted to buy goods (eg, trees, shrubs, sod) and services (ie, designing and installing the landscaping). The owner likely hired the well-known landscaper due to his skill in performing landscaping services, and the $5,000 budget for goods was just one-sixth of the $30,000 contract price. Therefore, the contract primarily calls for services and is subject to the jurisdiction's two-year statute of limitations. And since the owner sued three years after the breach, the owner cannot recover damages from the landscaper.

(Choice A) The predominant-purpose test is unnecessary when a contract is divisible—ie, when the payment for goods can easily be separated from the payment for services. But here, the contract is likely indivisible since it combined the sale of the trees, shrubs, and sod with their installation.

(Choices C & D) The predominant-purpose test focuses on the parties' reason for entering the contract—not for breaching it. Therefore, it is irrelevant that the landscaper's breach was (1) a result of an increase in the price of goods or (2) willful.

Educational objective:
Sale-of-goods contracts are governed by the UCC, while services contracts are governed by common law. When a contract calls for the sale of goods AND the rendering of services, the contract's primary purpose determines whether the UCC or common law applies.

Bluebook Citations :

  • Bonebrake v. Cox, 499 F.2d 951, 960 (8th Cir. 1974) (applying the predominant-purpose test to determine which statute of limitations applies to a mixed contract for goods and services).
  • Princess Cruises, Inc. v. Gen. Elec. Co., 143 F.3d 828, 833 (4th Cir. 1998) (listing factors that courts consider when applying the predominant-purpose test).

A man and a woman dated for several weeks. During that time, the man repeatedly asked the woman to have sex. Each time, the woman responded that she would not have sex with the man unless they were married. One evening, the man promised the woman that they would elope the following weekend if she would agree to have sex. The woman agreed and the couple had sex. The following weekend, the man told the woman that he had no intention of eloping and only made that promise to get the woman's consent. The woman reported the man to the police, who later arrested and charged the man with rape.

Is the man guilty of rape?

  1. No, because fraud in factum did not negate the woman's consent.
  2. No, because fraud in the inducement did not negate the woman's consent.
  3. Yes, because the woman's consent was obtained by fraud in factum.
  4. Yes, because the woman's consent was obtained by fraud in the inducement.
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Explanation:

Consent to sexual intercourse obtained by fraud
Type of fraud Definition Effect
In factum
  • Fraud pertains to nature of act—eg, doctor convinces patient that sexual act is part of medical exam
  • Victim is unaware that he/she is consenting to sexual intercourse
Negates victim's consent
In inducement
  • Fraud pertains to what victim knows is an act of sexual intercourse—eg, defendant promises marriage in exchange for sex
  • Victim is aware that he/she is consenting to sexual intercourse
Does not negate victim's consent

In most modern jurisdictions, rape is defined as sexual intercourse with another without that person's consent.* This means that rape did not occur if the victim consented to sexual intercourse. However, a victim's consent may be ineffective if it was obtained by fraud. There are two types of fraud:

  • Fraud in factum – when consent is obtained by fraud regarding the nature of the act itself, leaving the victim unaware that he/she consented to sexual intercourse and negating the victim's consent
  • Fraud in the inducement – when consent is obtained by fraud regarding what the victim knows is an act of sexual intercourse, which does not negate the victim's consent

As a result, consent obtained by fraud in factum is not a valid defense to rape, but consent obtained by fraud in the inducement is a valid defense.

Here, the man falsely promised the woman that they would elope if she agreed to have sex with him. Since the woman knew that the act to which she consented was sexual intercourse, her consent was obtained by fraud in the inducement (Choices A & C). This type of fraud did not negate the woman's consent, so the man is not guilty of rape (Choice D).

*At common law, rape was defined as (1) unlawful sexual intercourse (2) with a female who is not the defendant's wife (3) against her will by force or threat of force.

Educational objective:
Fraud in factum occurs when the fraud pertains to the nature of the act itself and negates a rape victim's consent. In contrast, fraud in the inducement occurs when fraud is used to gain consent to what the victim knows is an act of sexual intercourse and does not negate the victim's consent.

A plaintiff sued a defendant for negligence to recover damages that the plaintiff suffered as a result of a crash between the two parties. At trial, the plaintiff's attorney called the plaintiff's wife to testify as to what she witnessed on the day of the crash. On cross-examination of the wife, the defendant's lawyer elicited several responses that tended to show that the plaintiff's actions constituted contributory negligence. The plaintiff's attorney seeks to ask the wife several questions on redirect examination, but the defendant's attorney objected.

What is the strongest argument that the court must allow redirect examination of the wife?

  1. The plaintiff's attorney failed to provide all significant information on direct examination.
  2. The plaintiff's attorney seeks to reiterate the necessary elements of the claim.
  3. The plaintiff's attorney seeks to reply to all matters raised on cross-examination.
  4. The plaintiff's attorney seeks to reply to significant new matters raised on cross-examination.
Submit Next Question

Explanation:

Sequence and scope of witness examination

Federal Rule of Evidence 611 gives trial courts the authority to exercise reasonable control over the mode and order of examining witnesses at trial. This includes the discretion to determine whether—and to what extent—redirect examination of witnesses should be permitted. But when a party raises a significant new matter while cross-examining a witness, the court must allow the opposing party to address that matter through redirect examination.

Therefore, the strongest argument for allowing redirect examination of the plaintiff's wife is that the plaintiff's attorney seeks to reply to significant new matters that were raised on cross-examination.

(Choice A) A party is expected to elicit all significant information during direct examination of a witness. Therefore, a court need not permit redirect examination to allow the party to provide information inadvertently omitted on direct examination.

(Choices B & C) Redirect examination is generally limited to significant new matters raised on cross-examination. Therefore, a party is not entitled to redirect examination to (1) reiterate information like the necessary elements of the claim or (2) reply to all matters addressed in cross-examination.

Educational objective:
When a party raises a significant new matter on cross-examination of a witness, the court must allow redirect examination by the opposing party to address that matter.

Bluebook Citations :

  • Fed. R. Evid. 611 (explaining the mode and order of examining witnesses).

Twenty years ago, a man who owned a 20-acre ranch agreed to sell all of his mineral rights to his neighbor. The man executed a warranty deed conveying the mineral estate to the neighbor, who failed to record the deed.

The following year, a woman moved her mobile home onto an undeveloped five-acre portion of the man's ranch. After the woman had lived on the property for 10 years, a local drilling company began operations on a nearby tract to drill a natural gas well. Believing that the woman owned the property, the drilling company approached the woman about leasing the mineral rights on her property and requested that the woman sign a lease of her mineral rights. The woman signed the lease as requested, and it was promptly and properly recorded. The drilling operations were successful, and the drilling company prepared to distribute profits from royalties. However, a dispute arose between the neighbor and the woman, as both parties claim ownership of the minerals.

The period of time to acquire title by adverse possession in the jurisdiction is 10 years.

In an action to determine title, is the court likely to award title to the mineral estate to the woman?

  1. No, because the woman actually possessed only the surface estate that had previously been severed from the mineral estate.
  2. No, because the woman did not actually possess the mineral estate until she signed the lease of the mineral rights.
  3. Yes, because the neighbor failed to record the warranty deed conveying the mineral estate.
  4. Yes, because the woman adversely possessed both the surface estate and the mineral estate for the statutory period.
Submit Next Question

Explanation:

Adverse possession of a mineral state

An adverse possessor can acquire title to land owned by another if his/her possession of the land is:

  • Open and notorious – apparent or visible to a reasonable owner
  • Continuous – uninterrupted for the statutory period
  • Exclusive – not shared with the owner
  • Actual – physical presence on the land and
  • Nonpermissive – hostile and adverse to the owner.

If the surface and mineral estates are owned by the same party, then the adverse possessor will acquire title to both estates—even if only one estate is actually possessed. But if the mineral estate has been severed from the surface estate (ie, the surface and mineral estates are owned by different parties), then the adverse possessor will only acquire title to the estate that is actually possessed. The mineral estate is actually possessed when the adverse possessor mines or drills wells on the land.

Here, the neighbor purchased the mineral estate from the man, thereby severing the mineral estate from the surface estate. And since the woman merely lived on the property for the 10-year statutory period—she did not attempt to mine or drill a well on the mineral estate—she actually possessed only the surface estate during that time (Choice D). This means that the woman did not adversely possess the mineral estate, and the court is not likely to award her title to that estate.

(Choice B) Adverse possession of a mineral estate requires the commencement of drilling or mining operations. Merely signing a lease of the mineral rights is not enough.

(Choice C) A deed need not be recorded to be valid, so the neighbor's failure to record has no impact on whether the woman adversely possessed the mineral estate.

Educational objective:
If a mineral estate has previously been severed from the surface estate (ie, surface and minerals owned by different persons), then an adverse possessor can only acquire title to the mineral estate by actually possessing the minerals (eg, by mining or drilling wells).

A teenager was riding a bicycle when she saw a classmate walking toward her. The teenager rode quickly toward the classmate, knowing that he would think she would run into him on her current trajectory. The teenager was not purposefully trying to harm or touch him. The classmate saw the teenager riding toward him and yelled at her to stop. The teenager swerved at the last moment and avoided hitting him. The classmate had a panic attack because he thought that the teenager would hit him.

Is the classmate likely to succeed if he sues the teenager for assault?

  1. No, because the teenager did not make contact with the classmate.
  2. No, because the teenager did not purposefully try to harm or touch the classmate.
  3. Yes, because the teenager acted with the requisite intent.
  4. Yes, because the teenager's conduct was extreme and outrageous.
Submit

Explanation:

Two types of intent

Assault occurs when (1) a defendant intends to cause the plaintiff to anticipate an imminent, and harmful or offensive, contact with the plaintiff's person and (2) the defendant's affirmative conduct causes the plaintiff to anticipate such contact. The intent requirement is met when the defendant acts with either:

  • purpose – the desire to cause anticipation of an imminent harmful or offensive contact or
  • knowledge – the substantial certainty that the plaintiff will suffer such anticipation.

Here, the teenager rode her bicycle directly at her classmate, causing him to think that she would hit him (anticipation of imminent contact). And since the teenager knew with substantial certainty that the classmate would think she would run into him, she acted with the requisite intent. As a result, the classmate is likely to succeed in a suit against the teenager for assault.

(Choice A) Assault merely requires that the plaintiff be placed in anticipation of imminent contact. Actual bodily contact is not required. Therefore, the fact that the teenager did not make contact with the classmate is irrelevant.

(Choice B) The intent to make contact with the plaintiff is a requirement for battery, but assault merely requires the intent to cause the plaintiff to anticipate imminent contact. Therefore, the fact that the teenager did not purposefully try to harm or touch the classmate does not absolve her of liability for assault.

(Choice D) Extreme and outrageous conduct (i.e., conduct that is unacceptable in civilized society) is an element of intentional infliction of emotional distress—not assault, which only requires intentional conduct.

Educational objective:
For assault, intent exists when a defendant acts with the purpose (desire) or knowledge (substantial certainty) that his/her conduct will cause the plaintiff to anticipate an imminent, and harmful or offensive, contact.

Bluebook Citations :
  • Restatement (Third) of Torts: Intentional Torts to Persons § 105 (Am. L. Inst., Tentative Draft No. 1, 2015) (providing the elements for assault).

Take a look at a typical competitor sample question below. Their practice questions might parody the exam, but ours consistently meet or exceed exam-level difficulty. Their limited explanations address the right answer choice but do not go the extra mile to explain the wrong choices – so you don’t make the same mistakes on exam day.  

A mother gave her land to her two kids, a son, and a daughter, as joint tenants. The son built two adjoining homes on the land. He lived in one house and rented the other. The daughter lived out of the country and never visited the land. The daughter needed money, so she sold her interest in the land to her ex-boyfriend. Her ex-boyfriend immediately hired a developer to build a third home on the land. Soon after the daughter had sold her interest in the land, she was killed in a motorcycle accident. The ex-boyfriend is now asking the court for a judicial partition of the land. The son contends that upon his sister's death, he was now the sole owner of the land.

How should the court rule?

  1. For the ex-boyfriend, because he plans to live on the land.
  2. For the ex-boyfriend, because he paid for the son’s interest in the land.
  3. For the son, because he has the right of survivorship.
  4. For the son, because he has the sole position of the land.
Submit

Explanation:

Correct answer: B

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Virgin Islands Bar Exam Scoring/Grading

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam uses scaled scoring to ensure fairness and consistency across administrations. Scaled scoring adjusts for variations in exam difficulty so that no group of examinees is advantaged or disadvantaged based on the specific version of the test they take.

February 2026 — Legacy UBE Scoring

The February 2026 Virgin Islands Bar Exam will follow the legacy UBE scoring structure. The total UBE score (on a 400-point scale) is composed of three sections:

  • MBE – 50%
  • MEE – 30%
  • MPT – 20%

Scores from these components are scaled and combined to produce a single total UBE score. This will be the final administration of the legacy UBE before the jurisdiction transitions to the NextGen format.

NextGen UBE Scoring

Under the NextGen UBE, all question types; multiple-choice, short-answer, and performance tasks, are integrated and scored holistically.

  • All answers are evaluated according to uniform national grading standards.
  • The NCBE statistically equates scores to maintain consistency across exam versions.
  • Scores are reported as a single number on a scale from 500 to 750, replacing the legacy UBE's 400-point scale.

Virgin Islands Minimum Passing Score

The minimum passing score in the Virgin Islands remains 266, as established under the traditional UBE system.

Under the NextGen UBE, there will be no separate section scores, instead, all components will contribute to a single combined scaled score representing both knowledge and practical skills. The NCBE will align the Virgin Islands' passing standard (266) appropriately within the new 500–750 scale to ensure continuity and fairness.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam Results and Pass Rates

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam historically shows variation between first-time and repeat takers' pass rates due to the small number of candidates each year. As a result, even a few passing or failing scores can cause large percentage shifts.

Below are the most recent pass rates available from NCBE's jurisdiction reports.

The Virgin Islands MPRE Requirements

The Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination (MPRE®) remains a separate requirement for admission to the Virgin Islands Bar, even under the NextGen UBE format.

The MPRE is a 2-hour, 60 multiple-choice question exam that assesses an examinee's knowledge of the ABA Model Rules of Professional Conduct. Candidates must pass the MPRE before taking the Virgin Islands Bar Exam. You can register through the NCBE.

Learn More

The Virgin Islands MPRE minimum passing score

To apply for the VI Bar Exam, you must have earned a score of at least 75 on the MPRE within the last 3 years.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam Reciprocity (Admission on Motion)

You may be admitted to the Virgin Islands Bar via admission by motion (admission without examination) if you:

  • Hold a Juris Doctorate (JD) or LLB from an ABA-approved law school
  • Are admitted to practice law in a U.S. jurisdiction that allows reciprocal admission for the Virgin Islands Bar members without an exam.
  • Have been admitted after passing a written examination to practice law in another U.S. jurisdiction.
  • Have been primarily engaged in active law practice for 5 of the last 7 years.
  • Are currently in good standing in all jurisdictions where licensed and can provide evidence of good moral character and knowledge of professional standards.

Note: Reciprocity and admission on motion requirements remain unchanged under the NextGen UBE. However, candidates must still comply with all jurisdiction-specific eligibility rules the Virgin Islands Supreme Court sets.

Reciprocal Jurisdictions

If the Virgin Islands doesn't have a reciprocal agreement with your jurisdiction, you must provide a copy of the rule or policy indicating that a member of the Virgin Islands Bar can be admitted to that jurisdiction without examination.

The following jurisdictions have special reciprocal agreements with the Virgin Islands:

  • Colorado
  • Connecticut
  • Georgia
  • Mississippi
  • New Hampshire
  • New Jersey
  • New Mexico
  • North Carolina
  • Oklahoma
  • Oregon
  • Pennsylvania
  • Virginia

If you are from a UBE jurisdiction, you may transfer a UBE score that meets or exceeds 266 and was earned within the past 3 years.

Virgin Islands Bar Exam for Foreign-Educated Applicants

Graduates of foreign law schools are not eligible to take the Virgin Islands Bar Exam. They must meet the same criteria as domestic applications. The Virgin Islands does not offer a separate evaluation or equivalency pathway for foreign-trained attorneys. Regardless of educational background, all applicants are subject to the same admission standards set by the Virgin Islands Supreme Court.

Virgin Islands State Bar Contact Information

Phone Number (340) 774-2237
Fax (340) 774-2258
Email [email protected]
Address Judicial Branch Administrative Office
161B Crown Bay
St. Thomas, VI 00802

Frequently Asked Questions

The February 2026 Virgin Islands Bar Exam (Legacy UBE) is a 2-day exam totaling about 12 testing hours. Beginning July 2026, the NextGen UBE will be administered over 1.5 days (three 3-hour sessions).

To take the Virgin Islands Bar Exam, you must have graduated from an ABA-accredited law school. Foreign-educated law graduates are not eligible unless they meet the same standards as domestic applicants.

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam is considered moderate in difficulty, comparable to other UBE jurisdictions. The upcoming NextGen UBE is expected to maintain a similar level of rigor while updating the format and question types.

The Virgin Islands Bar Exam application fee is $1,100. The filing deadlines are May 1 for the July exam and Dec. 1 for the February exam. A late filing option is typically available; applicants should verify any late fees or updated costs directly through the VI Supreme Court’s Bar Admissions Office before submitting their applications.

It costs $500 per section, so to retake the entire Virgin Islands Bar Exam costs $1,000.

There is no limit to the number of times you can take the Virgin Islands Bar Exam.

The minimum passing score for the Virgin Islands Bar Exam remains 266. This score currently applies to the legacy UBE through February 2026. The NextGen UBE will use a new scoring system (on a 500–750 scale), and the Virgin Islands’ minimum passing score will be announced closer to the exam transition.

The Virgin Islands has special reciprocal agreements with some ube jurisdictions, and applicants from UBE jurisdictions can apply for score transfers. The Virgin Islands accepts:

  • Legacy UBE scores with a minimum passing score of 266.
  • NextGen UBE scores (minimum passing score to be announced).
  • Transferred MBE scores from other jurisdictions.

Transferred scores must be earned within the past 3 years to remain valid. Applicants from reciprocal jurisdictions may qualify for admission on motion if they meet the education, active practice (5 of the past 7 years), and good-standing requirements set by the Virgin Islands Supreme Court.

We recommend dedicating 400 study hours to the VI Bar Exam. Most students begin studying 8-10 weeks before their exam. However, starting sooner may aid retention and decrease burnout, so we recommend starting as early as 4-6 months out if possible, especially if you work full-time.

To apply for special accommodation due to a disability, you must submit a written request to the Committee on an approved form. Reach out to the Committee for this form at [email protected].

References

  1. Virgin Islands Supreme Court. (n.d.). Regular admissions FAQ. Retrieved from https://supreme.vicourts.org/offices_of_the_court/bar_admission/regular_admissions/regular_admissions_faq
  2. National Conference of Bar Examiners. (2025, July). Official examinees' guide to the NextGen UBE: July 2026–February 2027 [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.ncbex.org/sites/default/files/2025-07/NCBE-NextGen-UBE-Examinees-Guide%20J26-F27.pdf
  3. National Conference of Bar Examiners. (n.d.). Virgin Islands jurisdiction information. Retrieved from https://www.ncbex.org/jurisdictions/VI
  4. Virgin Islands Supreme Court. (n.d.). Bar admission home / Offices of the Court. Retrieved from https://visupremecourt.hosted.civiclive.com/offices_of_the_court/bar_admission
  5. National Conference of Bar Examiners. (n.d.). Bar admission requirements – Chart 7 (Fees and deadlines). Retrieved from https://reports.ncbex.org/charts/chart-7/
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