Can I sit the exam if I am overseas or interstate?
Information on Overseas or Interstate applications is available in the Victorian Bar Entrance Exam Policy.
I would prefer to sit exam papers on different dates - how far apart are they [the Exam] spaced?
There will be one Exam in 2024 on 13 October 2024 and thereafter two Exams annually around April/May and October. Candidates must pass all three papers in the 'Permitted Exam Period' to gain admission to the Readers' Course. Please refer to the Entrance Exam Information Guide.
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. It is anticipated that the new Entrance Exam standard and format will mean that less study is required.
Can I use a secondary electronic device such as a timer or additional screen during the exam?
No. You are permitted to use only the electronic device you use for the exam, and you are strictly prohibited from using any additional electronic devices including an additional screen.
Will I be able to charge by laptop during the exam?
Yes. All candidates will have access to a powerboard on their exam table to keep their device fully charged throughout the day of the Exam.
Can I use ear buds or head phones?
No. Ear buds, head phones or ear phones or anything that covers your ears is strictly prohibited.
Do I need to have a stable internet connection throughout the exam?
No. 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 after each exam component has been completed for uploading. Access to the internet will be provided at the designated exam venue.
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, textbooks, printouts etc. You cannot print during any exam component and printed copies of the exam components will not be provided to candidates.
How is cheating detected?
The Exam will be invigilated. Examinees will log in to each exam component 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.
Candidates who gain approval to sit the Exam remotely will be required to use ExamMonitor which captures a continuous audio and video recording of the examinee using both webcam and screen capture (no WiFi connection is required).
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.
ExamSoft program offers military-grade exam proctoring and security services.
How much does the Readers Course cost?
The Readers' Course fee in 2024 and 2025 is $7,000 (GST inclusive). The Course fee is subject to change.
What financial factors should I consider before coming to the Bar?
Being a barrister can be an incredibly rewarding career when lawyers commence their own practice as sole traders. Successful candidates are required to surrender their current practising certificate (if they have one) prior to commencing the Readers' Course.
When are exams set for the following year?
Exams for each year will be confirmed late in the preceding year. Exams will be held twice annually commencing in 2025.
