Solicitors Qualifying Exam: Solicitors Qualifying Exam

In this Feature we’ll run through what your options are as a non-law student pursuing a career as a solicitor, and the different kinds of law conversion course that are currently available.

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The Solicitors Qualifying Exam

What is it and how can you qualify as a solicitor through SQE?

A guide to SQE preparation courses

Use this guide to compare the new preparation courses for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) by key criteria including fees, learning styles and locations.

Where to start?

Everything you need to know about the SQE

Get information on the syllabus, the exam format, the cost for candidates, and more!

What it takes to pass SQE

Read this advice from a consultant solicitor on how they passed the SQE

Introducing The University of Law's SQE courses

Whatever your background or education, however you want to study, we have the right course for you

How I aced my SQE1 exams

Tips from solicitor apprentice Holly Moore on how she aced SQE1

Are the GDL, LPC and SQE eligible for the postgraduate student loan?

"Can I access the government’s postgraduate student loan for the GDL, LPC and the new SQE preparation courses?"

SQE in the news

Read the latest information about what is happening with the SQE

News

Latest SQE1 pass rates drop to below half

The latest sitting for part one of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) was passed by fewer than half of candidates – down from the 56% pass rate for the January 2024 sitting.

News

The College of Legal Practice and the University of Winchester announce new SQE partnership to prepare students for legal career

The College of Legal Practice and the University of Winchester have joined forces to offer an innovative new master’s in law that’ll include preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam assessments and a direct pathway into the legal profession.

News

RPC expands solicitor apprenticeship to London, boosting access and diversity in legal careers

RPC has announced the expansion of its solicitor apprenticeship programme to London. The international law firm will start training solicitor apprentices in its London office from September 2025 with applications for the scheme now open.

Videos

See more videos

Is the LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2) the right course for you? | ULaw

Benefits of our QWE Guarantee | The University of Law

Is the SQE1 Prep Course the right solicitor course for you? | ULaw

The ULaw SQE App | The University of Law

Masterclass | Navigating the SQE pathway - with BPP University

SQE assessments

Ask the Oracle

SQE assessments: what to expect

I’m getting ready for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) assessments. What can I expect from the SQE1 and SQE2 assessments? What do I do when I get to the test centre?

Ask the Oracle

Time limits on the validity of the law degree, GDL, LPC, SQE and Bar course

How long are legal qualifications valid for? Once I graduate with my law degree, how long do I have to qualify as a solicitor/barrister before it expires?

LCN Says

Chris Eaton - Completing an SQE prep course with The University of Law

Chris Eaton

Chris Eaton completed The University of Law’s LLM Legal Practice (SQE1&2) ahead of sitting the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) and securing a training contract. We spoke to Chris about the prep course, taking the assessments themselves and Chris' advice for future SQE candidates.

Guides from The University of Law

An SQE course for everyone

Read The University of Law's guide to becoming a solicitor, including career opportunities, courses and funding.

User guide: The University of Law's SQE revision app

The free SQE revision app is here to help you prepare for SQE1!

More resources

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SQE1 Study Manuals

The University of Law's manuals will help you to study for part 1 of the SQE.

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SQE quiz

Which route should you take?

Find your route through the SQE with the University of Law's SQE quiz.

Should I do the LPC or the SQE?

I’m in the final year of my law degree – should I do the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course after I graduate, or the new Solicitors Qualifying Exam?