How to Apply for the West Virginia Bar Exam

The West Virginia Board of Bar Examiners administers and oversees the West Virginia bar examination in Charleston, West Virginia. The Board consists of seven members of the state bar who are in good standing and represent different regions of the state. The Board also employs two staff members to serve as liaison with bar candidates to ensure the application process runs as smoothly as possible. Because the bar examination is offered only twice a year, it is essential that a candidate's application be completed accurately and submitted in a timely manner.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. Acquaint yourself with the Rules for Admission to the Practice of Law in West Virginia 1.0 through 10.5 to make sure you are eligible to sit for the upcoming bar examination (see Who Can Help below).

2. Request an application packet from the West Virginia Board of Law Examiners (see Resources below).

3. Review the application deadlines for your desired test date, November 1 for the February exam and April 1 for the July exam. Commit your schedule to submitting the application in a timely manner.

4. After receiving your application packet, read the instructions carefully and begin gathering the necessary materials that must accompany your application.

5. Complete the bar application accurately and thoroughly. Double-check for errors and omissions.

6. Attach the required application fee along with all other required documentation to your application.

7. Have your application notarized.

8. Mail your application well within the stated deadlines for the desired bar exam.

Tips & Warnings

• The request for an application packet must be in writing and accompanied by your return mailing address and application fee.
• Keep a copy of the application for your records.
• Faxed or scanned copies of the bar application are not accepted.
• Incomplete or inaccurate applications are not processed.

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