Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE)
February 2021
For people qualifying via the SQE after 1 September 2021
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a single, national licensing examination that all aspiring solicitors will take before qualifying. From 1 September 2021 to qualify you will need to:
- have a degree in any subject or a qualification or experience that is equivalent to a degree, such as a solicitor apprenticeship which combines on the job experience and training
- pass both stages of the SQE assessment - SQE1 focuses on legal knowledge and SQE2 on practical legal skills and knowledge
- two years' full-time (or equivalent) qualifying work experience'
- pass our character and suitability requirements.
You can find out more on the SQE final design, and related decisions, in our policy section.