Commercial bar preparation programs cost between approximately $2000 and $3000 – a huge expense that requires you to research very carefully the program that will work best for you.
The three major bar program vendors – Kaplan, BarBri and Themis – make presentations at the Bar Prep Kickoff Event held at Bowen each fall. At the vendor showcase, they explain the unique features of their programs. After they make their presentations, they “table” for the rest of the day, offering you a chance to take a look at their products. Throughout the year, the student representatives of these programs table on the second floor, giving you ample opportunity to review each vendor’s product before choosing a bar prep program.
Bowen offers a commercial bar prep program scholarship as well, twice a year, in the amount of $1500. The Bowen scholarship application period opens around the first of each semester, and is advertised by email and on social media and other law school resources. There are several other private organizations that offer bar prep program scholarships, including the Arkansas Association of Women Lawyers (AAWL). Both scholarships are well advertised – keep your eyes open for notifications by e-mail and on social media.
Additionally, private bar loans are available. Yale Law School has provided this handy list of Frequently Asked Questions.
