Kim Kardashian Fails California Bar Exam Again, Promises to Try Until She Passes

Kim Kardashian’s dream of becoming a lawyer has hit another setback — but the reality star and entrepreneur remains undeterred. The SKIMS founder confirmed on Sunday that she did not pass the California bar exam held in July 2025, marking another hurdle in her six-year-long pursuit of a legal career.

In a candid social media post, Kardashian shared the update with her characteristic humour and optimism.

“Well, I’m not a lawyer yet — I just play a very well-dressed one on TV,” she joked. “Six years into this law journey, and I’m still all in until I pass the bar. No shortcuts, no giving up — just more studying and even more determination.”

The 45-year-old celebrity, who first began studying law in 2019 under California’s “law office study” programme — an alternative route allowing aspiring lawyers to apprentice with practising attorneys instead of attending traditional law school — has remained committed to completing her qualification despite multiple challenges.

A Step Back, but Not the End

This was Kim’s first full attempt at the California state bar, which is widely regarded as one of the most difficult legal exams in the world. The pass rate typically hovers around 50–55 per cent, even for law graduates from leading universities.

Before this, Kardashian had successfully cleared the First-Year Law Students’ Examination, better known as the “baby bar,” in December 2021 — but only on her fourth attempt. That milestone allowed her to proceed with further legal studies and apprenticeship.

While this latest result may have disappointed her fans, Kim’s response has been anything but defeatist.

“Falling short isn’t failure — it’s fuel,” she wrote. “I was so close to passing, and that only motivates me more. Thank you to everyone who keeps cheering me on — I’ll keep going until I make it.”

Balancing Fame and Law

Kardashian’s decision to pursue law has often been linked to her late father, Robert Kardashian Sr., who was part of OJ Simpson’s defence team during his high-profile murder trial in the 1990s. Inspired by his work, Kim has used her platform to advocate for criminal justice reform, including campaigns for the release of wrongfully convicted individuals.

Balancing legal studies with her businesses — SKIMS, SKKN, and her reality empire — has not been easy. Yet, she continues to dedicate hours daily to reading case law, preparing for exams, and working alongside attorneys on pro bono cases.

An Inspiration Beyond Glamour

Supporters online have lauded Kim for her persistence, describing her journey as a testament to perseverance and self-discipline. Many note that her commitment sends a strong message about second chances and resilience, particularly in an age where celebrity careers often prioritise glamour over grit.

As she prepares to retake the bar exam in mid-2026, Kardashian insists she’s in it for the long haul. “Every great lawyer fails before they succeed,” she wrote, signing off her post with a simple declaration —

“Next time, I’ll make it happen.”

Kim Kardashian’s legal pursuit may still be in progress, but her determination has already inspired thousands — proving that sometimes, failure can be the most powerful form of progress.