The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a rigorous and challenging assessment for aspiring solicitors in England and Wales. However, one of the most unforgiving aspects of the SQE1 exam is the three strikes rule.

What Is the SQE Three Strikes Rule?

According to Regulation 7.4, candidates have a maximum of six years from the date they first sit an SQE assessment to complete all remaining assessments. During this period, if a candidate fails FLK1 and/or FLK2 at the first attempt, they have only two further opportunities to pass within the six-year timeframe.

The most severe consequence? If a candidate fails either FLK1 or FLK2 three times, they are barred from retaking the SQE1 exam for six years. Additionally, all previously earned passes will be wiped out once the six-year period expires, forcing candidates to start from scratch.

Why Is This Rule So Brutal?

For aspiring solicitors, six years is a long time to put a career on hold. The three strikes rule means that a lack of preparation, a poor understanding of the law, or even just an unfortunate exam day can derail an entire legal career for years.

With only three attempts to pass FLK1 and FLK2, it’s crucial to have a clear insight into your knowledge and readiness before sitting the exam.

How Freedom Law Clinic Helps You Avoid the Three Strikes Rule

At Freedom Law Clinic, we take a proactive approach to ensure our students are fully prepared before sitting the SQE1. Here’s how we do it:

1. Personalised Knowledge Reviews – Our small class sizes ensure students receive constant and direct feedback on their understanding of key legal concepts.
2. Real-Time Assessment Readiness – Before every exam sitting, we personally evaluate whether students are ready. If we recommend a student to sit the exam and they fail, we will discuss options to help fund their resits.
3. High Success Rates – if we recommend a student to take the exam, they pass. We know when our students are ready.
4. Unlimited Access to Live Teaching – Our students retain access to live teaching sessions for as long as it takes to pass, ensuring they have continuous support.

The Key to Success: Knowing When You’re Ready

The three strikes rule is unforgiving, but with the right support and preparation, you can avoid failure and pass with confidence.

At Freedom Law Clinic, we ensure that you are not just taking a chance on passing the SQE1 — we make sure you are ready to pass it the first time.

Don’t leave your future to chance. Get in touch today and start preparing with expert-led guidance that guarantees you the best possible chance of success.