Information for SQE candidates

The January SQE1 statistical report has been published. More...

We have published information on the April SQE2 joining instructions. More...

Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)

Register for the SQE, book your assessments and get your results. Understand and prepare for the SQE with guidance on the process and information about the exam.

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The SQE process

Your journey as an SQE candidate involves registering for the SQE, booking assessments, sitting SQE1 and SQE2, and getting your results.

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Registering

The first step in the SQE process is to register for the SQE.

This starts with creating your SQE account, then verifying your identity, completing the diversity survey, stating whether you need reasonable adjustments and applying for them if you do.

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Booking

When you've completed registration the next step is to book your SQE1 assessments.

You'll book and sit SQE1, then get your results. When you've passed SQE1 you'll be eligible to book and sit SQE2.

There's also an option to sit the SQE in Welsh.

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Assessments

The next step after booking is to sit your first assessments.

You'll sit SQE1. When you get your results and pass, you'll be eligible to book and sit SQE2.

To prepare and know what to expect read the assessment specification and assessment day guidance.

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Results

After sitting SQE1 you'll get your results. If you pass you are eligible to book and sit SQE2.

You will not be eligible to book SQE2 until you have passed SQE1. You are allowed three attempts to pass SQE1.

You also have three attempts to pass SQE2. After passing SQE2 you have passed the SQE.

The SQE route to qualify as a solicitor

The SQE route to qualification consists of four elements that must be completed before a candidate applies to be admitted to the roll of solicitors.

Degree or equivalent

A degree in any subject or an equivalent level 6 qualification.

Pass the SQE

Pass the SQE1 and SQE2 assessments.

Work experience

Gain a total of two years' full time qualifying work experience.

Suitability

Meet the SRA's character and suitability requirements.

Learn more about the SQE

Hear from SQE candidates

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I found that the candidate services team was extremely helpful and responsive. Any issue that I encountered was dealt with and solved promptly.

Susanna Paralegal

Candidate case studies

Are you ready to register for the SQE?

Create your personal SQE account and register for the SQE.

SQE News

Stay up to date with all the latest news and announcements.

April 2026 SQE2 joining instructions

2 April 2026

Joining instructions for the April SQE2 will be emailed to candidates 20-24 April.

Read more

SQE1 sample questions: annual update

2 April 2026

Annual SQE1 sample question update now live

Read more

Important information regarding the July SQE1 booking process

2 April 2026

We have published the July 2026 SQE1 booking information

Read more

January 2026 SQE1 Statistical Report published

31 March 2026

January 2026 SQE1 Statistical Report and further information published.

Read more