Missouri bar exam requirements
Missouri now gives the NextGen UBE, since July 2026 after its last legacy exam in February 2026, with a passing score of 610. Fees start at $560 if you apply by October 1 for February and rise through two late tiers (November 1 and December 1) up to $1,400. Applicants must also pass the Missouri Educational Component Test (MECT) before licensure.
Sources: Missouri Board of Law Examiners and NCBE’s Comprehensive Guide, checked October 11, 2026. MECT question count as reported. Confirm with the Board before applying.
Deadlines and fees
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| February exam | Timely: October 1; late tiers: November 1 and December 1 |
| July exam | Timely: March 2; late tiers: April 1 and May 1 |
| Exam fee | $560-$1,400 first-time and attorneys; $560-$850 repeaters |
| Score transfer | Legacy UBE 260+ or NextGen 610+, up to 5 years old |
Source: NCBE; Missouri Board of Law Examiners.
Requirements
- MECT: an open-book online test on Missouri law (reported as 33 questions), with review materials posted by the Board.
- MPRE: 80 or higher, within 1 year after you’re notified of passing the bar exam.
- MBE transfers: accepted within 19 months, if you passed the whole exam in one sitting elsewhere and haven’t failed in Missouri.
- Admission on motion: after 5 of the past 10 years in practice.
- Character and fitness: handled by Missouri, not NCBE; foreign law graduates may be eligible with additional US education or admission.
Official source & community discussion
NCBE: Missouri jurisdiction information (official) →
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