JD-Next is the leader in measuring a student’s ability to learn. As such, our program does a better job in reducing or eliminating score gaps and achieving more fair and balanced test results for all individuals. How do we achieve this? The JD-Next exam is built from the ground up with a testing philosophy based on theories first developed in the 1920s. Rather than trying to measure the abstract and general cognitive assets that students will bring to law school, we give them an opportunity to learn actual law school skills in a structured and supportive environment. In this way, the JD-Next is more like a tryout for law school, and we find only small, non-significant disparities in scores by racial and ethnic groups.
We also know that simply taking the JD-Next course improves performance in law school. Completion is itself important information for an admissions officer to consider, as a signal of applicant strength and intentionality. As the California Association of Black Lawyers has written to deans, "JD-Next will not only ensure diversity in our law schools but also in our profession and the judiciary."