Steps to Apply

Applying for LL.M. programs can be a complex, multi-step process. Read through the steps below to learn more about our LL.M. programs and the application process.

Step 1: Choose your program options

When to do it: Now

One size does not fit all. That’s why we offer two different program options— both of which lead to the same Berkeley Law LL.M. degree. Start exploring our programs any time to see which one (or more than one) might be a good fit for you.

And, you can apply to more than one program! Applicants are only considered for the tracks to which they apply, so feel free to apply to both tracks. Note that students admitted to one track may not switch to another. If you are potentially interested in more than one track, please apply to both!

Click on each box below to learn more.

 

You can also explore the Courses and Certificates of Specialization that are available, and learn more about the Cost of Attendance and Scholarships, which vary by track.


Step 2: Sign up for an LSAC account & purchase LSAC services

When to do it: Now, or any time before you start the application process

Register for an LSAC account here if you do not already have one.

We strongly advise applicants to register for the LLM Credential Assembly Service well in advance of the application deadline. LSAC recommends applicants register at least four to six weeks before their first application deadline.

Berkeley Law requires the use of LSAC’s Electronic Application Service ($39USD) and the Document Assembly Service ($55USD plus $34 report fee). The International Transcript Authentication & Evaluation Service ($140USD) is optional but highly recommended for applicants educated outside the U.S. LSAC’s LLM CAS site provides more details about each service and the associated cost.


Step 3: Have your supporting materials sent to LSAC

When to do it: Now through the application deadline

It is recommended to have supporting materials sent as early as possible to allow sufficient time for processing. This includes academic records, English language test scores, and letters of recommendation. We are aware that it takes a few weeks for LSAC to evaluate and assemble documents from the time they are received; as long as materials are sent by the deadline (November 10th for the executive track [remote + summer timeline] and December 18th for traditional track) they are considered on time.

LSAC keeps materials on file for five years. See our Application Checklist for more information on how to submit these materials.


Step 4: Apply online

When to do it: August to November/December

Access LL.M. application forms and see specific deadlines on our Application Forms & Deadlines page.

You can complete and submit your online application form even if your supporting materials are not ready yet; this creates a record for you in our system and enables us to see that you have begun the application process, and allows you to check your application status.

Note: if you are applying to more than one track, email us to request an application fee waiver code so that you only have to pay the application fee once. For the LL.M. executive track, you can apply for both options on the same application form with one application fee.


Step 5: Check your application status

When to do it: Any time after you apply

You will receive an email from the Advanced Degree Programs Office with your Applicant Status Online username and password after you have submitted your online application, and then you can check your application status here.

You can also check the status of your supporting materials through your LSAC LLM CAS account.

Please check your status both through our site and with LSAC LLM CAS before contacting our office to inquire about your application status.


Step 6: Admission decisions announced

When it happens: Varies by track

Track Decisions Announced
LL.M. executive track

Remote + summer option: applicants will receive their decision within two to three weeks of application completion.

Two summer option: applicants who apply by November 10th and complete their applications shortly thereafter will receive a decision by the end of 2023 at the latest. Applicants who apply by the December 18th deadline will receive a decision by the end of January 2024.

Both options: applicants who apply for both options will typically receive a decision for both around the same time, within two to three weeks of application completion.

LL.M. traditional track The majority of applicants will receive their decision by early March 2024.

Admitted students are required to submit a $1,000 deposit if they choose to accept. The deposit will be applied to tuition fees in the first semester of study, and it is non-refundable under any circumstance.