Computer-Based Testing
July 2026 NextGen Uniform Bar Examination
Overview
The NextGen UBE is a fully computer-based digitally delivered examination administered on examinee's own laptops through the NCBE's secure testing browser. This means that the questions are given to you through the browser and your answers are also submitted through the browser. There is no handwriting of answers for the NextGen UBE, and no hard copy booklet of questions.
Mandatory Pre-Exam Requirements
All examinees are required to complete a series of technology and policy readiness steps before exam day. These steps ensure that your laptop is properly configured, that you're familiar with the digital testing environment, and that all technical issues are resolved well in advance of exam day. The NCBE will notify examinees when it is time to take each step. The deadline to complete all pre-exam requirements is Wednesday, July 22, 2026. If you fail to complete any of the steps on time, you will not be permitted to sit for the exam.
STEP 1: Candidate Agreement
Examinees are required to read and accept all relevant policies related to exam-day conduct, security, technology use, and examinee responsibilities. These policies are non-negotiable and must be reviewed before access to the testing platform is granted.
STEP 2: Technology Fee Payment
The technology fee is $149. This is a separate fee paid to the NCBE through your NCBE account.
STEP 3: Secure Testing Browser Installation
The secure testing browser must be installed on the same laptop you plan to bring to the exam. If you need to switch laptops prior to exam day, you may do so by downloading the secure testing browser and then completing the system compatibility check on your new laptop. There is no fee to switch laptops.
STEP 4: Exam Tutorial and System Compatibility Check
The interactive exam tutorial introduces the secure testing browser and its features. Completing this tutorial ensures you're comfortable with the platform before exam day. The system compatibility check, which runs at the same time as the exam tutorial, confirms that your laptop's hardware, operating system, and internet configuration meet the requirements for the secure testing browser.
During the Exam
To be admitted to the testing room and allowed to take the exam, you must bring the following:
1) The same laptop you used to complete the exam tutorial and system compatibility check.
2) A functional charger, with the expectation that your laptop will remain plugged in for the duration of the exam. Power will be provided at each seat.
3) A valid government issued photo ID, such as a driver's license or passport. The name on your ID must match the name in your Connecticut Bar Examination application and your NCBE account.
Examinees who fail to bring any of the above items will not be permitted to sit for the exam. A limited number of backup laptops are available for true in-exam emergencies related to software failure, but will not be issued to examinees who are not fully prepared.