Survival Guide by an NCA Alumni

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Hey there! I'm Spencer, a former NCA candidate and currently pursuing candidacy at the Law Society of Ontario. Having gone through 10 NCA exams over two years and even taking a course at Osgoode Hall, I've gathered my experiences into this NCA Survival Guide, hoping it will help you navigate through this process.

  1. If you're considering attending law school overseas and have already found this guide, congrats, you're ahead! Opt for an approved law school in a common law country like the UK, where you meet NCA's grading policy (6% above passing grade, minimum 2:2). This usually results in 5 core exams and 2 electives. Be cautious with civil law countries as more exams and mandatory class time might be required for distance learners.
  2. After receiving your NCA assessment, it's time to prepare. Your preparation approach depends on factors like your exam experience and ability to study for multiple exams. If you're new to law exams, consider starting with one exam, though you can choose to tackle more if you wish.
  3. Plan ahead for electives and non-core subjects, as they typically occur every other session. Pick electives that will be helpful for your bar/solicitor exam; civil litigation is recommended. Avoid tax unless you enjoy a challenge.
  4. A crucial tip - invest in Liran's notes! They cover the material effectively, are user-friendly, and cheaper than textbooks. They are a fantastic resource.
  5. Attempt to predict what will be on the exam. Certain topics, like the Oakes test in constitutional law, tend to appear more often. While the entire syllabus is examinable, focus on prevalent topics.
  6. During the actual exam, remember to apply the law and principles to fact patterns. Don't just list legal provisions; analyze the scenario and apply the law to come to a conclusion.
  7. Follow the issue, law, application, and conclusion structure in your answers. It's vital for success.
  8. Stick to the syllabus in your exam answers; don't include additional information not covered in the assigned materials.
  9. Practice exams are valuable preparation tools. Go over them thoroughly to get familiar with the format and process.
  10. If you happen to fail, don't worry; it's normal. Learn from the feedback, and don't give up. Perseverance is key.
  11. Consider single course enrolment as a last resort; they can be costly, and universities may have credit caps for single courses. Use tutors for external help if needed.
  12. Bring a backpack or purse to the exam center to keep your belongings safe.
  13. Ensure you read and bring the necessary codes (e.g., model code, criminal code, code of civil procedure) for each exam.
  14. Prioritize your health while studying. Adequate sleep, good nutrition, exercise, and quality study time are vital for success.

That's a summary of my experiences and tips. Wishing you the best of luck in your journey! - Spencer T

Follow Spencer on Instagram @spencertran2



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