College leads the state for the third time in four years
with a 96.67% first-time passage rate
Belmont University’s College of Law achieved a 96.67% first-time passage rate on the July 2026 Tennessee Bar Exam, the highest among Tennessee law schools. Belmont outpaced Vanderbilt University, the University of Tennessee, the University of Memphis, Lincoln Memorial University and Nashville School of Law.
According to statistics released by the Tennessee Board of Law Examiners, Belmont’s first-time passage rate exceeded the statewide first-time rate of 80.46% by more than 16 percentage points. The results continue a sustained record of success for Belmont Law, which has earned the highest first-time bar passage rate among Tennessee law schools in three of the past four years.
“Passing the bar exam represents years of dedication, discipline and perseverance, and we are proud to celebrate this achievement with our graduates,” said Deborah R. Farringer, dean of Belmont Law. “Their success also reflects the commitment of our faculty and staff, who challenge and support students throughout their legal education. We strive to prepare every graduate to enter the profession with the knowledge, judgment and integrity needed to serve clients well and contribute meaningfully to their communities.”
In total, 719 candidates representing 95 law schools took the July 2026 Tennessee Bar Exam, with an overall passage rate of 71.63%.
Belmont Law’s continued success reflects its emphasis on rigorous academic preparation, experiential learning and individualized student support. Through classroom instruction, hands-on legal experiences and comprehensive bar preparation, the College equips students with the legal knowledge and analytical skills required for licensure and professional practice.
About Belmont University
Located near the heart of thriving Nashville, Tennessee, Belmont University consists of nearly 9,000 students who come from every state and 33 countries. The University is nationally recognized for its innovative approach as well as its commitment to undergraduate teaching (U.S. News & World Report). As a Christ-centered, student-focused community, Belmont’s mission is to develop diverse leaders of purpose, character and wisdom who possess a transformational mindset and are eager and equipped to make the world a better place. With more than 115 areas of undergraduate study, 41 master’s programs and eight doctoral degrees, Belmont University aims to be the leading Christ-centered university in the world, producing leaders who will radically champion the pursuit of life abundant for all people.
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