What the SQE involves

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a key part of the process to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales. Passing the SQE assessments is essential, but it’s only one part of meeting the full qualification requirements.

To qualify as a solicitor, you will need to:

  • Pass both SQE assessments
  • Have a degree, equivalent qualification, or relevant experience
  • Complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
  • Meet the Solicitors Regulation Authority’s (SRA) character and suitability requirements

The assessments

The SQE is divided into two parts : SQE1 and SQE2.

  • SQE1 tests your functioning legal knowledge (FLK) through two parts — FLK1 and FLK2. Both parts are single best answer multiple-choice tests taken on two separate days within the same assessment window (unless you have an exemption).
  • SQE2 assesses your practical legal skills and application of legal knowledge, through written and oral exams held over consecutive half days.

Learn more: Assessment day | When you can take the SQE


Degree or equivalent qualification or experience

You need a degree in any subject or an equivalent qualification or work experience to qualify.

Equivalent qualifications include:

  • Level 6 or 7 apprenticeship
  • Level 6 or 7 professional qualification

If you don’t have these qualifications, the SRA may consider relevant work experience as equivalent. Contact the SRA before committing to training. 


Two years’ Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)

QWE involves at least two years of full-time (or equivalent part-time) work experience providing legal services that develop the competences required of solicitors.

  • Experience can be gained in up to four different organisations
  • It must be signed off by a Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP), a solicitor, or another nominated person in the organisation.

Learn more: Qualifying Work Experience


Character and suitability

When applying to be admitted as a solicitor, you must meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements.

Learn more: Character and suitability


Transitional arrangements

If you were already on the path to qualification before 1 September 2021, transitional arrangements give you flexibility to complete your training either through existing routes or the SQE.

These arrangements apply if, before 1 September 2021, you had:

  • Started or completed a qualifying law degree
  • Started or completed the Common Professional Examination / Graduate Diploma in Law
  • Started or completed the Legal Practice Course
  • Accepted a training contract or completed recognised training

Most courses must have started by 31 December 2021 to qualify. For full details, see the SRA’s transitional arrangements.

Learn more: Transitional arrangements

 

Ready to register for the SQE?

Create your personal SQE account and book your assessments.

Register for SQE 

Have you passed the SQE?

Find out what happens after passing the SQE and admission to the roll of solicitors.

Learn more

Ready to register for the SQE?

Create your personal SQE account and book your assessments.

Register for SQE 

Have you passed the SQE?

Find out what happens after passing the SQE and admission to the roll of solicitors.

Learn more about Have you passed the SQE?