Fresh Law Students: Closed-Book Exams Increase Challenges But Help Build Solid Legal Foundation

This article was first published on 2 August 2026 in the Singapore Mandarin broadsheet, Lianhe Zaobao.

SLW obtained permission to reproduce the article to give the legal community a broader view of legal reports for various news syndicates.

As the National University of Singapore Faculty of Law (NUS Law) adjusts its exam formats from the new academic year, two incoming first-year NUS Law students believe that while the new measures may increase the pressure of exam preparation, they will help students build a solid legal foundation. In an era where artificial intelligence (AI) is rapidly becoming ubiquitous, law students must first master robust legal concepts and analytical skills. AI should only serve as a tool for learning, rather than replacing traditional learning and exams.

Zhang Jinyuan (transliteration), 21, believes a large part of learning the law is about internalising important legal concepts in order to apply them flexibly in nuanced scenarios. He said that while closed-book exams would inevitably lead to more hours being put in by law students to both remember and master legal concepts, it was part and parcel of understanding how the law works, and how it should be applied. This is a must-have foundational skill when law students enter practice in the future. Therefore, Zhang said students should make good use of closed-book exams to hone their legal analytical skills.

Zhuo Jiayi (transliteration), 19, on the other hand, considers herself lucky as there is no need for her to transition between open-book and closed-book exam formats. She believes that instead of relying on reference materials, closed-book exams require students to really understand the law, and scrutinise the legal concepts behind each case.

However, she is also concerned that time constraints may lead some students to rely on rote learning, which defeats the purpose of closed-book exams to nurture understanding in the first place.

When discussing AI, both agree that while AI can assist in collating large volumes legal materials, helping with review and reinforce learning, it cannot replace the basic understanding of the law by students. Traditional exams remain an important way to assess learning outcomes and cement the foundation of legal understanding, laying the ground for students to become qualified lawyers when they leave school.

In addition, Ngee Ann Polytechnic launched the Diploma in Computing with Law (CLW) programme last year, the first of its kind among polytechnics in Singapore. With annual intake of 40 students, the programme aims to cultivate talents in areas such as LegalTech, RegTech and ComplianceTech.

Responding to queries from Zaobao, Course Chair Ching Yun Lee said: "As AI and data-driven technologies become increasingly embedded in business and society, organisations are navigating ever more complex issues related to legal, regulatory and compliance challenges. At the same time, the legal industry is undergoing rapid digital transformation, creating demand for professionals who can bridge technology and law".

The CLW programme integrates computing, AI and legal knowledge. Besides software development, students also acquire a good understanding in areas such as foundations of law, data protection, intellectual property, and IT compliance. The school also collaborates with law firms, legaltech companies, and professional bodies. Through partnerships with organisations such as Rajah & Tann Singapore LLP, Lexagle, Luminance and the Singapore Academy of Law, students gain access to real-world projects, internships and industry mentorship, while developing an understanding of how AI is reshaping legal workflows and services.

Source: Lianhe Zaobao © SPH Media Limited. Permission required for reproduction.

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