The Idaho Supreme Court and Board of Commissioners recommend that the Idaho bar exam passing score should be lowered from 272 to 270 (68% to 67.5%) to be more consistent with the surrounding states. Changing the passing score for the Idaho Bar Exam will set a passing that is consistent with Idaho’s geographic neighbors and other jurisdictions that administer the Uniform Bar Examination. Below is a map of the minimum passing score for all jurisdictions administering the UBE.

Currently, of the 41 jurisdictions that administer the Uniform Bar Exam only 3 states (including Idaho) have a passing score greater than 270. The goal is for the change to take effect prior to conclusion of the fall resolution process. The time frame for the change eliminates the option of proposing the rule change through the 2023 resolution process. Consistent with Idaho Bar Commission Rule 906(l), it was determined that an Emergency Resolution is the best course of action. The resolution is presented and supported by the Idaho Supreme Court and the Board of Commissioners of the Idaho State Bar.

A ballot will be mailed to all voting members of the Idaho State Bar on April 28. Ballots can be returned by mail, email, or hand delivered to the bar office. All votes are due to the Idaho State Bar office by 5:00 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23.

If you have any questions, please contact Diane Minnich, dminnich@isb.idaho.gov or Maureen Ryan Braley at mryanbraley@isb.idaho.gov.

https://www.ncbex.org/exams/ube/score-portability/minimum-scores/