The state of South Dakota itself does not administer or control the Multistate Professional Responsibility Exam (“MPRE” ). Rather this ethics exam is conducted by the National Conference of Bar Examiners. The South Dakota MPRE a separate test than that of the South Dakota bar exam administered separately from the South Dakota bar exam. The MPRE is also tested 3 times per year, in March, August as well as in November.
We advise you to visit our Ethics Exam/MPRE page for more general information regarding the MPRE, its application process, and for general questions.
South Dakota MPRE & South Dakota MPRE Reciprocity
The state of South Dakota requires MPRE score (which is scaled) of 75 or more to receive a pass. The South Dakota MPRE must be passed by bar applicants before they can be admitted. The MPRE must be completed within 25 months of passing the South Dakota Bar Exam. This means a bar applicant can achieve a passage rate on the MPRE either before or after they pass the exam. Any attorneys that are seeking admission on motion may pass with MPRE at any time. Any scores 75 or more will also be accepted via reciprocity.