SQE Route — Becoming a Solicitor
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the standard route to qualifying as a solicitor in England & Wales since September 2021.
Overview
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) replaced the Legal Practice Course (LPC) in September 2021 as the single, standardised assessment for qualifying as a solicitor in England & Wales. It was introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) to create a more consistent, accessible, and rigorous route to qualification.
The SQE comprises two stages: SQE1 tests legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions (Functioning Legal Knowledge), while SQE2 assesses practical legal skills through written and oral exercises. Candidates must also complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), which can be gained at up to four different organisations — a significant change from the old training contract model, though most large firms still offer structured training contracts.
One of the most significant changes is that the SQE is open to graduates of any discipline, and even non-graduates who qualify through equivalent means (such as CILEx). This has widened access to the profession, though the cost of SQE preparation courses and the competitive nature of securing QWE remain significant barriers.
Qualification Journey
Undergraduate Degree
Complete a degree in any subject. A law degree covers some SQE1 content directly, but any degree is accepted. Non-graduates can enter via CILEx or apprenticeship routes.
SQE1 Preparation
Most candidates take a preparation course covering Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) across all core practice areas: business law, dispute resolution, contract, tort, property, wills, criminal law, and constitutional law. Self-study is permitted but uncommon.
SQE1 Assessment
Two exam sittings, each containing 180 multiple-choice questions (360 total). FLK1 covers business law, dispute resolution, contract, tort, constitutional law, and ethics. FLK2 covers property, wills, criminal law, and more. Pass mark set by standard-setting each sitting.
SQE2 Preparation
Prepare for practical skills assessments. Many candidates combine this with early QWE. Preparation courses focus on client interviewing, advocacy, case analysis, legal research, legal writing, and legal drafting.
SQE2 Assessment
Practical skills assessed over five half-days: client interviewing and attendance note, advocacy, case and matter analysis, legal research, and legal writing/drafting. Assessments use realistic scenarios across criminal, property, dispute resolution, and business contexts.
Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)
Complete two years of full-time work experience in legal services. Can be a traditional training contract or up to four separate placements. Must be confirmed by a solicitor. Work experience gained before or during SQE assessments counts.
Character & Suitability Check
The SRA assesses your character and suitability to be a solicitor. Declare any relevant matters (criminal convictions, disciplinary issues, financial problems) early in the process.
Admission to the Roll
Apply to the SRA for admission to the Roll of Solicitors. Once admitted, you may apply for a practising certificate and begin practising as a qualified solicitor.
Entry Requirements
- Degree in any subject (minimum 2:2 typically expected by employers, though not required by SRA)
- Non-graduates: CILEx qualification or approved equivalent
- English language proficiency (if applicable)
- Character and suitability requirements (no unspent serious criminal convictions)
Alternative entry routes
Non-graduates can qualify via the CILEx route (see CILEx pathway) or through a Solicitor Apprenticeship (Level 7), which combines degree-level study with on-the-job training over 6 years. Some universities offer integrated law degrees with SQE preparation built in.
Cost Breakdown
Related Careers
Solicitor
The most common type of lawyer in England & Wales, solicitors advise clients, draft documents, and manage legal transactions across every area of law.
Trainee Solicitor
The supervised training period for aspiring solicitors, combining practical legal work with structured learning across multiple practice areas.
In-House Counsel
Qualified solicitors or barristers employed directly by a company, charity, or public body to provide legal advice from within the organisation.
Paralegal
Legal professionals who assist solicitors and barristers with casework, research, and administration — a vital role and common stepping stone into the profession.
Regulated by: Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) · Last updated: 2025-03-01