Complaints

If you’re unhappy with any aspect of the SQE, we’re here to help. Before getting in touch, please read this page carefully to understand how and when to raise a complaint—and what steps to take.

You’ll find information below for:

  • Candidates (including informal and formal complaints)
  • Customers (such as training providers)
  • Other complainants
  • How to request a complaint review

We encourage you to read the complaints policy before submitting a complaint.


1. Candidate complaints

Try to resolve issues at the time

If something goes wrong during your assessment, speak to a member of SQE staff as soon as possible. Many issues can be resolved on the spot.

Informal complaint

If the issue isn’t resolved on the day, you can request informal resolution by emailing: enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk

Please do this within five working days of the incident.

If you later decide to make a formal complaint, you’ll have 10 working days from the date of our response to submit it.

Formal complaint

To raise a formal complaint, complete the Formal Complaint Form and submit it within:

  • 10 working days of the incident, or
  • 10 working days of our response to your informal complaint

Include:

  • Details of the assessment (if relevant)
  • A clear explanation of your complaint
  • Any supporting evidence
  • If applicable, details of any discrimination you’re reporting

We'll

  • Acknowledge your complaint within five working days
  • Respond with an outcome within 40 working days

Read the complaints policy before submitting the form.


2. Request a complaint review

If you’re unhappy with the outcome of your complaint, you can request a review.

To do this, email: enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk

Include “Attention of the Director of Qualifications” in the subject line.

You must do this within 10 working days of receiving the complaint outcome.

We’ll:

  • Acknowledge your request within five working days
  • Review your complaint within 30 working days
  • Share the outcome within 10 working days of the panel’s decision

Read the complaints policy before requesting a review.


3. Customer complaints (employers or training providers)

If you’re a customer making a complaint about the administration of an assessment, email: enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk.

Include full details and submit your complaint within 10 working days of the incident.

We’ll:

  • Acknowledge your complaint within five working days
  • Respond with an outcome within 30 working days

Read the complaints policy before submitting.


4. Other complaints

If you don’t fall into the above categories but wish to raise a concern about any aspect of the SQE, email: enquiries@sqe.sra.org.uk

We’ll acknowledge your email within five working days and investigate your complaint.


Need help with something else?

Before contacting us, check if your question is answered in our guidance:

Or visit the Support page to find the right route for your enquiry.

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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?