1. What is the California Bar Calculator?

The California Bar Calculator computes your total scaled score for the California Bar Examination by combining your Multistate Bar Examination (MBE) score and written portion scores according to California's specific formula.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the California Bar formula:

Where:

• MBE Scaled — Your scaled MBE score (typically 0-200)
• Written Scaled — Your scaled written examination score (0-200)

Explanation: The California Bar Exam combines your MBE and written scores equally (50/50) to determine your total scaled score.

3. Importance of Bar Score Calculation

Details: Understanding your total score helps assess your likelihood of passing. California requires a minimum total scaled score of 1440 to pass the bar exam.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your scaled MBE score and scaled written score. Both values must be between 0-200. The calculator will compute your total scaled score.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a scaled score vs raw score?
A: Scaled scores adjust raw scores to account for differences between exam versions. Raw scores are converted to the 0-200 scale.

Q2: What is the passing score for California?
A: California requires a total scaled score of 1440 to pass the bar exam.

Q3: How are the written portions scaled?
A: The written portions (essays and performance tests) are scaled to the MBE to ensure comparable difficulty levels.

Q4: Can I pass if I do poorly on one section?
A: Yes, if you score high enough on the other section to compensate. The total scaled score must be ≥1440.

Q5: How often is the exam administered?
A: The California Bar Exam is given twice yearly, in February and July.