• The July 2025 California Bar Exam may cost $4.4 million, nearly double the anticipated $2.4 million.

• Trustees express frustration over the unanticipated price jump, citing fiscal responsibility concerns.

• Vendor negotiations are ongoing, with hopes of reducing the cost further.

The California State Bar’s plan to administer a new, state-specific bar exam in July 2025 has run into significant financial turbulence. Initially budgeted at $2.4 million, the projected cost now stands at $4.4 million, prompting alarm among trustees and staff, according to a Bloomberg Law report.

• The cost hike stems from an unexpected quote from ProctorU Inc., operating as Meazure Learning. 

• The bar originally negotiated a four-day test at $2.4 million, believing it could transition to a two-day format without substantial increases. 

• However, Meazure initially quoted $5.8 million for the shorter exam, later revising the figure downward to $4.4 million.

“I don’t think it was bad faith,” Special Counsel Bridget Gramme said , addressing the cost miscalculation. “I think it was a very big mistake.”

Fiscal Pressures Intensify

The California State Bar is grappling with financial challenges, as its admissions fund nears insolvency. The new state-specific exam, approved by the California Supreme Court this fall, was intended to save millions annually.

Trustees expressed frustration over the unexpected budget strain. 

• “I’m really disturbed that we’re having this conversation,” said trustee Sarah Good. 

• “We approved this in September for a certain amount, and now we’re looking at a really material increase at a time when we’re trying to be fiscally responsible and cut costs and live within our means.”

• Good called for a post-mortem analysis to determine how the situation unfolded.

Vendor Negotiations Continue

Despite the cost concerns, the bar has yet to finalize an agreement. State Bar Executive Director Leah Wilson acknowledged the complexity of the situation, noting that multiple changes—such as transitioning to a new multiple-choice vendor for the first time in over 30 years—contributed to the challenges.

Gramme revealed that a competing vendor submitted a lower quote. However, switching vendors could disrupt the exam process and create challenges for test-takers. The Bar works very smoothly with Meazure’s staff, Gramme said, emphasizing continuity as a key consideration.

The State Bar expects a revised pricing proposal from Meazure next week, with further negotiations anticipated.