Foreign-educated first-time-takers comprised 44.1 per cent of February candidates. This time they had a pass rate of only 37.1 per cent, as against July 2008, when foreign-educated attorneys had a pass rate of 54.8 per cent.
A number of factors cause the typically lower scores in February. The main factor is that the MBE is key to scoring the entire exam. When there are more retakers and more foreign-trained attorneys, as in February, the average MBE score will tend to be lower. Hence, scaled scores on all parts of the exam will be lower.
Congratulations to all who passed. The New York exam is a tough one. For those who did not make it this time, remember, all you have to do is keep on taking the exam, and you will pass. Needless to say, there are more and less efficient means for preparing, so look around for the right books, courses, and tutors, but persistence is key. Keep working, and you will succeed!
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