This article originally appeared in The Bar Examiner print edition, Fall 2025 (Vol. 94, No. 3), pp. 24-25.
Unlike test accommodations applications for the bar exam, those for the Multistate Professional Responsibility Examination are submitted directly to NCBE. Our staff encourages examinees seeking MPRE test accommodations to begin the process early; most grants of accommodations are effective for up to 24 months.
NCBE is committed to providing reasonable accommodations to candidates with documented disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and will make reasonable modifications to testing procedures that might otherwise prevent individuals with disabilities from taking the MPRE in an accessible place and manner, provided such modifications do not result in a fundamental alteration to the examination, impose an undue burden, or jeopardize examination security.
How do I apply for MPRE test accommodations?
Applying for MPRE test accommodations is done online through your NCBE Account.
A complete accommodations request includes (1) applicant information (which can include an optional personal narrative); (2) medical documentation; (3) proof of past accommodations; and (4) standardized test score reports. Detailed information about how to prepare your materials can be found at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/test-accommodations/how-prepare-your-request-test-accommodations.
For step-by-step instructions, visit the NCBE website at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/test-accommodations/how-apply-test-accommodations.
When should I apply for MPRE test accommodations?
As soon as you can! We recommend that individuals requesting accommodations submit their request as far in advance of their desired test administration as possible, and ideally no later than the Recommended Submission Date for that administration; this allows for any necessary follow-up and ensures adequate time for review of the request.
Accommodations are approved with a period of eligibility. For example, requests for accommodations based on unchanging conditions may be approved for a period of eligibility of up to 24 months. The period of eligibility permits candidates to submit a request for test accommodations well in advance of their intended test date. Additionally, if a candidate opts to postpone testing, or does not achieve a passing MPRE score, the candidate does not need to reapply for accommodations as long as their period of eligibility has not expired.
If you wish to take the MPRE again within your period of eligibility, you may proceed directly with the MPRE registration process.
Important dates regarding MPRE accommodations can be found at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/test-accommodations/important-dates-mpre-test-accommodations.
I missed the Recommended Submission Date for my preferred MPRE test administration. Can I still submit a request?
Yes! You can submit a request for accommodations even if the Recommended Submission Date for your preferred MPRE test date has passed. However, the later you submit your request after the Recommended Submission Date, the greater the chance that you will not receive a determination in time to reserve a seat on your preferred test date, at your preferred location, and/or at your preferred test time, with accommodations granted. Seating at Pearson VUE test centers is on a first-come, first-served basis.
How long will it take for my request to be reviewed?
It typically takes NCBE at least 25 business days to review a complete request. If your request is submitted after the Recommended Submission Date, you run the risk of not being able to test on your preferred test date, at your preferred location, and/or at your preferred test time. Refer to the link in the previous section regarding important dates.
How will I know if my request was approved? What happens next?
Accommodations determination letters are posted in your NCBE Account File Cabinet. You will receive an email notification whenever new information is available, so make sure that your primary email is current in your NCBE Account.
If accommodations are approved, you are encouraged to register and schedule a test appointment for your preferred MPRE administration as soon as possible. Further instructions on how to register are available at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/registering-mpre.
In some circumstances, requests may be approved in part or not granted. If you do not agree with NCBE’s determination, you may submit either an appeal or a request for reconsideration. Please see the NCBE website for more information on appeals and requests for reconsideration at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/test-accommodations/accommodation-decisions.
Where can I find more information on MPRE test accommodations?
The NCBE MPRE website is a valuable resource if you have questions regarding MPRE test accommodations. More FAQs on the accommodations process can be found at ncbex.org/exams/mpre/test-accommodations/accommodations-faqs.
You can also contact NCBE directly by emailing mpre.ada@ncbex.org.
Contact us to request a pdf file of the original article as it appeared in the print edition.
