Indiana is set to transition to a new bar examination format in July 2028, as announced by the National Conference of Bar Examiners (NCBE). This change marks a significant shift from the current Uniform Bar Examination, which the state has utilized since 2021. The Indiana Supreme Court, which oversees the bar exam, has endorsed the move to the NextGen bar exam, giving law schools in the state ample time to adjust their curricula accordingly.
The NextGen bar exam is designed to test practical legal skills over rote memorization, a departure from the traditional format. This new exam will feature scenarios that incorporate various knowledge areas and skills, as detailed by the U.S. News & World Report.
Brad Skolnik, the executive director of the Indiana judicial branch’s admission and continuing education department, emphasized the importance of this transition. “By adopting the exam effective July 2028, we are providing Indiana’s law schools with the time they may need to make any necessary changes to their curriculum to ensure students are well-prepared for the exam,” Skolnik stated. “Our commitment remains to ensure we have highly qualified lawyers available to serve the needs of the public.”
What’s on the New Test?
According to a press release from the NCBE, the NextGen exam will cover nine legal focuses, including civil procedure, evidence, contract law, torts, business associations, criminal law, constitutional law, real property, and family law. It will also test essential skills such as legal research and writing, client counseling, investigation, and evaluation.
The exam will be administered over two days, totaling nine hours, which is shorter than the current 12-hour Uniform Bar Examination. Additionally, while the test will be conducted in-person, candidates will take the exam on personal computers.
Indiana joins 22 other U.S. jurisdictions in adopting the NextGen bar exam. Maryland, Missouri, and Oregon, the first states to adopt this version, will administer the test in July 2026. The NCBE will offer both the Uniform Bar Exam and the NextGen test through February 2028, allowing states time to transition smoothly.
In January 2024, law students from IU’s Maurer and McKinney Schools of Law and the University of Notre Dame Law School participated in a three-hour field test of the NextGen Bar Exam. A press release from the McKinney School of Law highlighted their efforts to evaluate if they are adequately preparing students for this new format.
The Indiana Capital Chronicle provides further insights into this development, emphasizing the broader implications for legal education and practice in the state.
More Articles
Getting licensed or staying ahead in your career can be a journey—but it doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Grab your favorite coffee or tea, take a moment to relax, and browse through our articles. Whether you’re just starting out or renewing your expertise, we’ve got tips, insights, and advice to keep you moving forward. Here’s to your success—one sip and one step at a time!
The average life insurance premium in 2026 sits at about 26 dollars per month for a healthy 40-year-old seeking a 20-year, 500,000 dollar term policy, according to recent industry data. Rates continue to be influenced by factors like age, health, and risk class, while certain personal details—such as marital status or number of beneficiaries—have no impact on pricing. With term, whole life, and no-exam options showing wide cost differences, professionals in real estate, insurance, mortgage, and finance can benefit from understanding how underwriting works. This knowledge not only helps with personal financial planning but also supports advising clients effectively in these interconnected industries.
AI is becoming a powerful partner for real estate agents, helping automate repetitive tasks like lead responses, follow ups, marketing content, and paperwork so you can focus on clients and closing deals. From 24/7 chat assistants to AI enhanced visuals and predictive analytics, agents using these tools are gaining a competitive edge without needing technical skills.
Florida’s housing market continues to outpace national growth, with several cities experiencing sharp jumps in home values driven by high demand and limited inventory. New data from Zillow highlights where price acceleration is strongest—from luxury enclaves like Golden Beach and Lake Buena Vista to more affordable markets such as Old Town. For real estate professionals, these insights spotlight emerging opportunities, shifting buyer behavior, and areas of rising investment interest across the state.
Baltimore is moving to close key loopholes in its rental licensing system after thousands of unlicensed and unsafe units came to light. A new city proposal would strengthen enforcement, increase audits, and protect tenants from negligent landlords. With nearly half of rentals still unlicensed, the reform highlights why compliance and ethical property management remain essential across the real estate industry.
Florida lawmakers have taken a major step toward helping homeowners understand rising insurance costs. The Florida House voted 114-0 to approve HB 767, a bill that would require insurers to publicly share more of the data behind their rate increases. While the bill doesn’t limit premiums, it aims to give consumers, real estate professionals, and analysts clearer insight into how insurance companies set their prices as it now heads to the Senate for consideration.
A rising public‑radio journalist walked away from the career she worked years to build after a spontaneous trip to Spain made her question what she truly wanted from life. Trading stability for a teaching visa and a slower pace in Seville, she faced financial uncertainty, culture shocks, and doubts about her future—yet also gained safety, freedom, and a renewed sense of self. Her journey is a reminder that major career shifts, whether abroad or at home, can open the door to unexpected possibilities.
