Overview
The NextGen UBE supports score portability, allowing examinees to transfer their scores between participating jurisdictions. This framework is designed to support candidate mobility while preserving each jurisdiction’s authority over admission decisions.
Score portability is a core feature of the NextGen UBE, but its implementation is determined at the jurisdiction level.
Score Portability
A portable score allows an examinee to use a score earned in one jurisdiction to seek admission in another jurisdiction, subject to that jurisdiction’s policies.
While scores are comparable across jurisdictions due to centralized scoring, jurisdictions independently determine their own policies about accepting transferred scores.
Jurisdiction Responsibilities
Jurisdictions are responsible for clearly defining and communicating their portability policies.
This includes
- whether they will accept transferred scores from other jurisdictions;
- the minimum score accepted for transfer; and
- any time limits on score validity.
Clear communication of these policies is important for both examinees and other jurisdictions.
Score Transfer Process
Score transfer is facilitated through NCBE.
Examinees who wish to transfer a score submit a request through NCBE systems. NCBE verifies the score and transmits it to the receiving jurisdiction.
Jurisdictions should expect to receive Official Bar Exam Transcripts and supporting candidate information as needed.
Once a score is received, the jurisdiction applies its own admission policies to determine eligibility. NCBE is not responsible for whether a jurisdiction accepts a score and requires examinees to acknowledge that.
Key Considerations
While portability supports flexibility, jurisdictions should remain mindful of
- the need for clear and consistent policies;
- alignment between passing standards and transfer thresholds; and
- communication with candidates regarding eligibility and expectations.
Although the scoring model ensures comparability, decisions regarding how scores are used remain fully within the jurisdiction’s authority.