What Do I Have To Remember The Day Of The MPRE?

What Do I Have To Remember The Day Of The MPRE?

There’s a lot to focus on as you gear up for the MPRE exam. Hopefully, you’ve studied for the MPRE with our FREE course and reviewed our one-page “cheat sheet” so that you’re fully prepared for the substance of the exam. But, what do you have to remember the actual day of the exam?

In this blog post, we outline some last-minute reminders so you can go into the MPRE fully prepared and ready for success!

And see here for full details from the National Conference of Bar Examiners on the MPRE.

NOTE: The MPRE testing protocols discussed here apply to a traditional exam administration. These are subject to change for 2020 testing due to COVID-19, so please be sure to check your respective state bar website and the NCBE website for any possible changes.

What Do I Have To Remember The Day Of The MPRE?

When do I have to arrive?

You want to arrive at the Pearson VUE testing center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time. If you get there less than 15 minutes before your assigned time, there is a risk that you will not be allowed to take the exam.

As the test itself is two hours, you should plan on being at the testing center for about 2 ½ to 3 hours.

What about an ID?

You are required to present two forms of original, unexpired IDs (a primary ID and a secondary ID). This means that you cannot have photocopies, digital copies, or expired IDs. The first and last name you used to register must exactly match the first and last name on both IDs that you present the day of the test.

NOTE: If you need to make a correction to your name, it has to be submitted at least two days before you are set to take the test.

• What counts as a primary ID? 

The primary ID has to be government-issued. It must include your first name, your last name, a recent photo, and a signature.

Students commonly present: passports, driver’s licenses, military IDs, or green cards.

• What counts as a secondary ID?

The secondary ID does not have to be government-issued. It must include your first name, your last name, and a signature OR your first name, your last name, and a recent photo.

Students commonly present: school IDs, credit cards, or library cards.

What happens at the testing center?

Before you take the test, Pearson VUE will collect your digital photograph, digital signature, and palm vein image. These are used to verify your identity and make sure that no cheating occurs.

You will also have to sign the NCBE Candidate Rules Agreement.

If you think that you might need any modifications to these requirements, you can contact the NCBD. However, any requests must be made 7 days before you are set to take the MPRE.

You might also be asked to empty your pockets, remove jewelry, roll up your sleeves, or pat yourself down. This is all to ensure that you do not have any prohibited materials.

What can I bring into the testing center?

The testing center will have small lockers for personal items. Test takers will not be able to access any of the materials in your locker during the test.

Takers are only allowed to take your primary ID and “comfort aids” into the testing room. Additionally, takers will be provided with an erasable note board and marker for taking the test.

How do I get access to the test?

You will be helped in logging on to your workstation. You will then have 5 minutes to review the instructions and certify that you want to take the MPRE. The test will then begin, and you will have 2 hours to complete the exam. 

Can I take a break?

There are no scheduled breaks during the exam. Test takers can take an unscheduled break – i.e. to stretch or use the restroom – but your time will not stop.

Takers are not allowed to leave the testing center or access any of the items in your locker if you decide to take a break.

Takers will also have to show the proctor your ID again before re-entering the room as well as re-scan your palm. This can all take time. So be sure that you really need a break before deciding to exit the exam room.

What if something goes wrong during the test?

If something goes wrong during the test, you can raise your hand to get the attention of the proctor. However, note that the proctor will not be able to answer any specific questions about exam material.

You can also file a formal complaint after the exam. However, any formal complaints must be received in writing at NCBE within 6 days of your test date.

While all the rules can seem overwhelming, familiarizing yourself with what to expect can definitely help relieve the stress. And just remember that you are prepared!

As long as you respect the instructions of the proctor, and follow the above advice, you will be well on your way to having a successful MPRE test day!

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