Written by: Katie Linder 

The Iowa Judicial Branch released the results of the July 2026 Iowa Bar Exam, and University of Iowa College of Law graduates once again led the way. Of the 55 Iowa Law graduates who took the exam, 53 passed, resulting in an overall bar passage rate of 96%. For first-time takers, the rate was even better with a 98% passage rate. 

Graduates from nearly 30 different institutions sat for the exam in July and achieved a collective passage rate of 84%. Iowa Law’s results continue a trend of success, with Iowa bar passage rates of 92% in July 2023, 93% in July 2024, and 96% in July 2025.

“We are incredibly proud of our students and the work of our faculty and staff in preparing graduates for the bar exam,” Dean Todd Pettys said. “This is a true team effort, and we couldn’t be prouder of what they have accomplished.” 

Iowa Law supports several initiatives focused on bar preparation, including a popular bar prep course that was introduced in 2023 and a summer support program available to graduates ahead of the July exam. Additionally, the college’s Academic Success Program works closely with students to help them develop strong legal study and exam-taking skills.

Preparing students for successful legal careers is a focus at Iowa Law. In 2025, 100% of graduates were employed or enrolled in graduate school within six months of graduation. Iowa Law is also among the top 5 law schools in the nation for employment outcomes.

Currently, more than 11,000 Iowa Law alumni are working in all 50 states and across 50 countries worldwide.