Web-versions of the updated SQE Assessment Specifications published

Sep 10, 2026

We have published updated web-versions of the SQE1 and SQE2 Assessment Specifications.

The updated Assessment Specifications (which include the Functioning Legal Knowledge (the FLK)) apply to SQE assessments that take place after 1 September 2026. Therefore, the first time they will apply will be the SQE2 assessment in October 2026.

The updated web-versions of the Assessment Specifications incorporate the changes which were made as a result of the annual review process for the FLKs. We have also made some presentational improvements to some annexes of the Assessment Specifications which will also improve accessibility. PDF versions of the Assessment Specifications showing the changes that were made following the annual review were published in April. These PDF versions will remain on the website until January 2027 should stakeholders wish to look at these.

The new web-version of SQE1 Assessment Specification also includes the further changes which were announced today.

Updated Welsh language versions of the Assessment Specifications will be published in due course.

Learn more: FLK Annual Review

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