The Law School does not require students to have laptops. However, some exams may be taken on laptops and many students find this option preferable. The Law School does not offer laptops on loan to students in order to take exams.
Minimum Specifications
If you purchased your laptop within the last three or four years, it is very likely that it will serve you adequately here at Berkeley Law. There are no Mac or Windows requirements. Wireless Internet is available throughout the Law School, so it is recommended that your laptop have either a built-in wireless card or an external PCI card.
Buying a New Laptop
Any laptop bought today should serve you adequately during your time at Berkeley Law. Specifically, verify that your new laptop will have onboard wireless and will include a good warranty package. It is highly recommended that new laptop purchases include a 3 year service plan. Some computers, accessories, and academic and popular software for students are available for purchase through The Computer Department of the Cal Student Store. UC Berkeley students are eligible for competitive discounts on purchases through the store.
Exams on Laptops
Some exams may be taken on a laptop (Windows or Mac) rather than in a bluebook. As of the Spring semester of 2006, the Law School no longer requires special software (e.g. Examsoft) to secure student laptops during the exam process. Specific instructions regarding exams and taking them on a laptop are sent out prior to exam season each semester.
