COVID-19
Successful exam candidates who are offered a place in a Readers’ Course will be notified about the policies and protocols as they are adopted, and readers will be expected to adhere to these policies and protocols.
Can I sit the exam if I am overseas or interstate?
Yes, but you must advise the Victorian Bar office at the time of registering for the exam. You will be required to sit the exam at the same time as local candidates. No allowances will be made for any time differences.
What time commitment is required to study for the exam?
This will vary between individual candidates and is dependent on the individual’s study habits and techniques. The sample past exam and reading guide will give you an indication of what you might expect.
Can I hand write my exam?
There is no option to hand write the exam. A hand-written exam cannot be remotely invigilated.
Will I have allocated reading time for the exam?
There is no separate reading time. However, allowance for reading time is "in built" into the examination time.
Can I use a secondary electronic device as a timer during the exam?
No. Only the electronic device you use for the exam is permitted. Any additional electronic devices are strictly prohibited.
Can I use ear buds or head phones?
No. Ear buds, ear phones or anything that covers your ears is strictly prohibited.
Do I need to have stable internet connection throughout the exam?
There is no need to access the internet during the exam. The Examplify program will block internet access on the examinee's device once the exam begins until completion. Internet connection is required only prior to the Permitted Time Window to download the exam file and again after the exam is completed for uploading the completed exam.
Can I print the Exam Reading Guide materials?
Prior to the exam, candidates may choose to print any of the Reading Guide materials to bring into the exam. You may print and prepare any hard copy materials you wish to bring into the exam room with you. This includes any notes, text books, print outs etc. You cannot print during the exam.
How is cheating detected?
ExamSoft offers military-grade exam proctoring and security services. Examinees will log in through ExamID and verify their identity. During the exam, the Examplify software locks the candidate’s device so the exam can be completed while all other software, files and features are disabled. ExamMonitor captures a continuous audio and video recording of the examinee using both webcam and screen capture (no WiFi connection is required). Once the exam is completed, all exam footage is uploaded and analysed by sophisticated artificial intelligence software which detects abnormal activity that potentially indicates collusion or academic dishonesty.
This detected activity is then reviewed by a professional invigilator. All suspicious behaviour will be reviewed and dealt with by the Victorian Bar. The Victorian Bar has a zero tolerance policy for cheating, and candidates who engage in cheating will be disqualified from the Exam and may face additional consequences including possible reporting to relevant bodies for professional misconduct.
How much does the Readers Course cost?
The Readers' Course fee in 2023 is $7,000 including GST. The Course fee may be subject to change for 2024. More information is available on the
Readers' Course webpage.
Does the Bar provide any financial hardship assistance for exam candidates?
No. The Victorian Bar Inc is a not-for-profit, member organisation. Exam fees are set on a cost recovery basis.
What financial factors should I consider before coming to the Bar?
Being a barrister can be an incredibly rewarding career, commencing your own practice as a sole trader. Successful candidates are required to surrender their current practising certificate (if they have one) prior to commencing the 9-week Readers' Course. The VicBar’s brochure
Becoming a Barrister may help you to assess whether this is the right time to join the Bar.
When are exams set for the following year?
Exams for each year will be confirmed late in the preceding year. The number of exams offered each year is contingent on the number of successful applicants for preceding year's exam(s).