If you’re aspiring to become a solicitor in England and Wales, navigating the qualification process is key. One of the most important steps in this journey is passing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). However, in addition to the SQE, there are other essential requirements you need to meet to qualify as a solicitor. In this blog post, we’ll explore the SQE assessments, additional qualifications, and the steps you need to take to achieve your goal.

What is the SQE?

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the centralised assessment process for becoming a solicitor. Introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), the SQE is designed to ensure all prospective solicitors meet the same high standards, regardless of their training route.

The SQE is divided into two key assessments:

1. SQE1: Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK)
   • This exam tests your understanding of legal principles and how they apply in practice. It is split into two parts:
     • FLK1 and FLK2, both consisting of single best answer multiple-choice questions.
   • SQE1 is held over two non-consecutive days, and both parts must be completed within the same assessment window unless an exemption applies.
2. SQE2: Practical Legal Skills
   • SQE2 assesses your ability to apply legal knowledge in practice, focusing on real-world skills.
   • It includes:
     • Oral assessments: Conducted over two consecutive half-days.
     • Written assessments: Conducted over three consecutive half-days.

Both SQE1 and SQE2 are essential steps in the process of qualifying as a solicitor.

Key Dates for SQE Assessments

• The first SQE1 assessment took place in November 2021.
• The first SQE2 assessment followed in April 2022.

For future assessment dates, you can check the SRA’s official SQE schedule.

Additional Requirements to Qualify as a Solicitor

While passing the SQE is a crucial component, it’s not the only requirement to become a solicitor. Below are the additional steps and qualifications you’ll need:

1. A Degree or Equivalent Qualification/Experience

To be admitted as a solicitor, you need to hold a degree in any subject. Alternatively, you can qualify through an equivalent route, such as:

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

In some cases, relevant work experience may be considered equivalent to a degree. If you don’t have a formal qualification, it’s recommended to consult with the SRA before committing to training.

2. Two Years’ Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)

In addition to passing the SQE, you must complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE). This experience should:

• Involve providing legal services and developing the competencies required of solicitors.
• Be at least two years in duration (full-time or equivalent).
• Be completed across no more than four different organisations.
• Be signed off by either a Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP) or a solicitor in the organisation.

This work experience is an essential part of the process, helping you gain hands-on skills and knowledge to prepare you for practice.

3. Character and Suitability Requirements

Before you can be admitted to the roll of solicitors, you must meet the SRA’s character and suitability standards. This ensures that all solicitors are trustworthy, ethical, and capable of upholding the professional standards required of the role.

Transitional Arrangements for Pre-SQE Candidates

If you were already on the path to becoming a solicitor before 1 September 2021, you might be eligible to qualify through the previous routes, rather than the SQE. The SRA’s transitional arrangements apply to those who:

• Had started or accepted an offer for a qualifying law degree or the Common Professional Examination (CPE)/Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL).
• Were enrolled in the Legal Practice Course (LPC).
• Had begun or secured a period of recognised training (training contract) before 1 September 2021.

Courses under the transitional arrangements must have commenced on or before 31 December 2021. For full details on the transitional process, refer to the SRA’s official guidance.

Conclusion

The journey to becoming a solicitor involves more than just passing the SQE. You must also meet the SRA’s requirements for work experience, character, and qualifications. Whether you’re pursuing the SQE route or are eligible for the transitional arrangements, understanding the process and planning your steps will help you navigate the path to a successful legal career.

Learn more:

• SQE Assessment Day
• SQE Exam Dates
• Qualifying Work Experience
• SRA Character and Suitability

By staying informed and following the right steps, you’ll be well on your way to qualifying as a solicitor and embarking on a fulfilling career in law.