How Many Times Can You Take the Bar Exam in the Philippines? Rules, Limits, and Smarter Ways to Try Again
Passing the Bar Exam is the final gateway for anyone who wants to practice law in the Philippines—but what if you don’t make it the first time? Or even the second? How many times can you take the Bar Exam in the Philippines?
Whether you’re a first-time taker or someone preparing for another attempt, this guide breaks down the regulations, attempt limits, and smart strategies you can use to succeed. You’ll also find helpful tools and resources specifically designed for Bar examinees like you.
This guide outlines official Bar retake limits in the Philippines, refresher course rules, and strategic tools for Bar examinees.
Is There a Limit to How Many Times You Can Take the Bar Exam?
Yes—but the limit isn’t absolute.
According to Section 16, Rule 138 of the Rules of Court, you can take the Bar Exam up to three (3) times without condition. After that, starting on your fourth attempt, you’ll need to comply with additional requirements.
What Does Section 16, Rule 138 of the Rules of Court Actually Say?
Section 16, Rule 138 of the Rules of Court in the Philippines states that:
“No applicant shall be admitted to the bar examination unless he or she has successfully completed all the prescribed courses for the degree of Bachelor of Laws or its equivalent, and has completed a refresher course and passed a pre-bar examination if he or she has failed the bar examination three times.”
In simple terms:
-
You can take the Bar Exam up to three (3) times without additional requirements.
-
But if you fail three times, you must do the following before your fourth attempt:
-
You must enroll and take a refresher course in the subjects you previously failed.
-
You must pass a pre-bar exam conducted by your law school.
-
Your law school must issue a Certificate of Completion, which must be submitted with your next Bar Exam application.
-
These conditions are designed to ensure that examinees who have repeatedly failed are given proper academic reinforcement and support before trying again.
What Happens If You Fail the Bar Exam More Than 3 Times?
You are still allowed to retake, but only after satisfying the refresher course requirement.
The Supreme Court is strict in ensuring that future lawyers are well-prepared. This means that if you've failed multiple times, it's not a dead end—but it does require more structured preparation and compliance.
When Is the Refresher Course Required?
Refresher courses are required for fourth-time examinees and beyond. Typically, these courses cover:
-
Civil Law
-
Criminal Law
-
Remedial Law
-
Legal Ethics
-
Commercial Law, if previously failed
The refresher requirement must be completed within two years prior to your next Bar Exam attempt.
How to Pass the Bar After Failing: Smart Strategies for Repeat Takers
Failing the Bar Exam can be discouraging, but it's not the end of the road. Thousands have failed once—or even more than once—and eventually passed. What matters most is how you adjust your strategy moving forward.
Here’s how to prepare smarter, not just harder:
1. Analyze Your Past Performance
Identify which subjects you failed and why. Was it a matter of time, understanding, or stress? Knowing the reason is key to improvement.
2. Use Digest.PH’s Exam-Specific Resources
Reviewing the Bar Chair’s decisions and doctrines is a smart way to anticipate questions and align with the 2025 Bar framework.
3. Ask Questions with Digest AI
Confused about a provision? Not sure how to phrase your answers? Digest AI lets you ask anything—from definitions to mock Bar-type questions. It’s built for law students and Bar takers in the Philippines.
4. Practice with Real Case Scenarios
Digest.PH’s case digest database is one of the largest in the country. Instead of reading full texts, study well-summarized cases from Digest.PH and focus on the key doctrines and application.
5. Don’t Ignore Mental Health
Bar prep is as much a mental game as it is academic. Take breaks. Avoid burnout. Keep your support system close.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many times can I take the Bar Exam in total?
There is no maximum number of total attempts, but after the third, each additional attempt requires a refresher course.
Can I switch law schools to complete my refresher course?
Generally, the refresher should be taken in your law school of origin or an accredited law school that can issue the proper certifications.
Is there a deadline or age limit for Bar Exam attempts?
As of current rules, there is no age limit. However, refresher course requirements must be completed within two years of your next application.
What is a pre-bar exam?
It’s an internal assessment administered by your law school to certify your readiness. You must pass this as part of your refresher requirements.
Preparing for the Bar Exam? These Tools Can Help:
Digest.PH has created tools tailored specifically for Bar takers. Whether it's your first try or a comeback round, these resources are here to help:
Conclusion: Don't Just Take the Exam—Own It.
Bar Exam failure is not a full stop—it’s a comma. Whether it’s your first, second, or even fifth try, what matters most is that you regroup, re-strategize, and rise again.
With the right mindset and the right tools, you’re not just preparing for a test—you’re preparing for a future in the service of justice.
Still unsure about your next move? Start with Digest AI or explore our case digest tools to strengthen your prep today. Digest.PH is with you at every step of your Bar journey!