Kim Kardashian fails California bar exam

Kim Kardashian, widely known as a reality television icon, business mogul, and influential media personality, has once again opened up about her ongoing journey to become a lawyer. The 44-year-old star, who has spent the last few years studying law through a California apprenticeship program, recently revealed that she did not pass this year's California Bar exam. The announcement came through her Instagram story on Saturday, shortly after the official results of the exam were released.

In a simple yet powerful message, she wrote: “No giving up, just more studying and determination.” Those few words reflected both her resilience and her commitment to the long-term goal she has publicly embraced: becoming a licensed attorney.

Kim Kardashian’s legal journey has been widely discussed in the media. Unlike many aspiring lawyers who take the traditional route through law school, Kardashian chose an alternative path known as the Law Office Study Program (often referred to as the apprenticeship track). This route allows a candidate to study under the supervision of practicing lawyers for several years instead of enrolling in law school. However, this path also requires passing the First-Year Law Students’ Examination, popularly known as the "Baby Bar," before being eligible to continue toward the California Bar exam.

Kim had previously passed that “baby bar” exam in December 2021, after several attempts, which she openly shared with her followers. Her transparency during those attempts—sharing both her struggles and her victories—earned her widespread respect, even among critics who often questioned her seriousness.

This most recent setback is part of the next step in the journey: the full California Bar exam. It is well-known that the California Bar is one of the hardest bar exams in the United States, with one of the lowest pass rates. Many students, even those who attend top law schools and prepare for months, sometimes fail. For Kim Kardashian, the challenge is even more intense, as she balances studies with running her businesses (including SKIMS and SKKN), filming and producing various media projects, managing her personal life, and being a mother of four.

Yet, despite her demanding schedule, Kim has repeatedly said that law is no longer just an interest—it is a purpose. Her decision to pursue law was strongly influenced by her involvement in criminal justice reform. Over the past several years, she has collaborated with advocacy groups and lawyers to help secure the release of individuals who were given unfair or overly harsh prison sentences. One of the most publicized cases was that of Alice Marie Johnson, who was serving a life sentence for a nonviolent drug offense. Kardashian supported Johnson’s clemency petition, eventually leading to her release in 2018. That experience, Kim has said, changed her view of justice and inspired her to do more.

For many, Kim Kardashian’s legal pursuit serves as a symbol of personal reinvention. To others, it stands as proof that no matter how influential or financially successful someone is, certain goals—like earning a professional license—still require discipline, time, study, and humility. Her willingness to share her setbacks publicly is also notable, as celebrities usually highlight their successes rather than their struggles.

This recent exam result, however, does not signal defeat. On the contrary, Kim’s reaction shows a firm commitment to continue. Her message—short but powerful—reflects resilience: “No giving up, just more studying and determination.” It is a reminder that progress is not always linear, and that failure is sometimes just a step toward achieving something greater.

Moreover, Kim’s journey may inspire others who are pursuing challenging goals. Whether they are students, entrepreneurs, artists, or individuals working to overcome personal obstacles, her message resonates universally: persistence matters. Success often requires patience. And sometimes, the most important victories come after disappointments.

Public reactions to her announcement have been mixed, as is common with any news involving a high-profile celebrity. Supporters admire her courage, consistency, and willingness to step far outside the entertainment world to chart a new, meaningful path. Critics, on the other hand, question whether her timeline and visibility affect the process in ways different from the average candidate. Yet even many skeptics acknowledge that passing the California Bar exam requires real knowledge and discipline—qualities that cannot be bought or faked.

Kim’s story is also a reflection of how identity can evolve. Years ago, she was known almost exclusively for reality TV, beauty trends, and celebrity culture. Today, she is recognized as a businesswoman whose companies are valued in the billions, a philanthropist involved in justice reform, and a public figure working toward a professional legal career. Her journey illustrates that reinvention is possible at any stage in life.

For now, Kim Kardashian will return to her studies, preparing for the next scheduled exam period. The process may take months of revision, practice essays, mock exams, and continued mentorship under her supervising attorneys. But as she has said before, she is prepared for the long road.

Her supporters believe she will eventually pass—not because of fame, but because of persistence.

And as she continues to share her experiences, successes, and struggles, one thing is clear: her journey is bigger than just a test. It is a reminder that the pursuit of purpose often requires courage, patience, and the willingness to fail publicly while continuing privately.