Bar exams are given in every state and consist of two parts. The first part is the called the Multistate, which is given nationwide to applicants in every state except for Washington and Louisiana. The Multistate part of the bar exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions covering the subjects of contracts, criminal law, constitutional law, property, torts, and evidence. While it may sound easy, it is very difficult. Many of the questions appear to have two correct answers and the applicant must select the better of the two answers.

The second part of the exam is an essay exam, which requires applicants to answer essay questions covering a much broader array of legal subjects. For instance, a state essay exam requires applicants often to be familiar with wills and estates, domestic relations, state constitutional law, secured transactions, and other areas simply not tested on the multistate exam.