How JD-Next Exemplifies the Future of the NextGen Bar Exam

Explore how JD-Next and the NextGen Bar Exam are transforming legal education by emphasizing practical skills, inclusivity, and real-world readiness.

Legal education is evolving, moving away from standardized testing that prioritizes aptitude over readiness. JD-Next and the NextGen Bar Exam are at the forefront of this transformation, paving the way for a legal profession that values inclusivity and real-world skills. Together, these initiatives are reshaping how aspiring lawyers are prepared for success.

JD-Next and the NextGen Bar Exam

Both JD-Next and the NextGen Bar Exam reflect a shared mission to better align legal preparation with the demands of practice. By emphasizing readiness and expanding opportunities for aspiring lawyers—particularly those from underrepresented backgrounds—these programs offer a forward-thinking alternative to traditional admissions and licensure models.

JD-Next: Realistic Preparation for Law School

Specific Skills: JD-Next’s curriculum trains students in case reading and legal analysis — skills directly applicable to law school success.
Valid and Reliable Scores: Scores from JD-Next’s final exam correlate strongly with first-year law school grades, offering a scientifically proven alternative to traditional admissions tools.
Consistency: JD-Next produces minimal score gaps across all racial and ethnic groups, fostering greater equity for all.

NextGen Bar Exam: Modernizing Legal Licensure

Focus on Practice-Ready Skills: The NextGen Bar Exam evaluates core competencies like legal research, client counseling, and negotiation, prioritizing readiness for practice over memorization.
Inclusive Testing Design: Its integrated question sets and skill-based assessments reduce traditional barriers, creating a fairer playing field for all candidates.
Addressing Equity Concerns: Like JD-Next, the NextGen Bar Exam reflects a commitment to minimizing disparities by focusing on real-world skills over theoretical knowledge.