SQE Update – February 2022
In this bulletin find out about SQE2 assessment bookings, the latest information on qualifying work experience and SQE assessment exemptions for qualified lawyers. You can also get involved in our upcoming webinars and watch those available on demand.
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SQE2 bookings now open
Candidates can now book for the SQE2 assessment taking place 11-29 April. To do this, they must have completed all the registration and pre-booking process first. We recommend candidates book as soon as possible to secure a place. If they need reasonable adjustments, they should make the request as early as possible as part of their pre-booking steps.
Please remember to sit this exam, a candidate must have passed SQE1 or be an LPC graduate using SQE2 (alongside qualifying work experience) as an equivalent to a period of recognised training.
Find out how to book your place
Latest information on qualifying work experience
We have responded to feedback that people would like more information on QWE. So we have updated our webpages for candidates and employers. Find out more on:
- what counts as QWE
- how many competencies someone needs
- employing a solicitor in a non-solicitor role
We are still getting feedback on what other information people would find useful. So please keep an eye on the bulletin for further updates in this area.
Take a look at our information for candidates and employers.
SQE assessment exemptions for qualified lawyers
There are two different SQE assessment exemptions available for qualified lawyers:
- an exemption we’ve already agreed for a legal qualification from particular jurisdictions and/or
- a personal exemption based on a lawyer's additional qualifications and/or legal work experience.
We have a list of all the agreed exemptions on our website. So far, these only apply to SQE2. But it is also possible to apply for exemptions from SQE1. We also list qualifications we are considering and others we have decided on where no exemption is available.
Find out about the agreed exemptions or how to apply for an individual one.
#SQEready – what universities and training providers are doing
We’re showcasing how different organisations are incorporating the SQE into their training and recruitment. Read the latest case studies from BARBRI and University of Law on what they're doing.
If you are a training provider – or employer – who is interested in getting involved in #SQEready, get in touch.
Get involved
Live webinars
Navigating the SQE training market (YouTube)
When: 8 March 2022, 12.30 – 13.00
There are lots of different ways to learn and train for the new SQE assessments. Watch our free webinar to find out how the education and training market has developed since the SQE’s introduction last year.
Aimed at aspiring solicitors, join us to get impartial hints and tips to help you choose an education and training provider.
Who: Richard Williams, Policy Manager, SRA and Ben Burns, Policy Associate, SRA
Qualified lawyers – becoming a solicitor (YouTube)
When: 29 March 2022, 13.00 – 13.45
Are you an overseas or UK qualified lawyer? This free webinar will give you the facts on:
- what becoming a solicitor through the SQE means
- what we mean by a qualified lawyer and who it includes
- what qualified lawyers will need to do, including UK and Irish lawyers, barristers and chartered legal executives
- how you can apply for SQE assessment exemptions and tips for a good application
- the options for current Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme candidates and the important deadlines they need to know about
Who: Maxine Warr, Head of Education and Training, SRA (Chair), Carol Cook, Policy Manager, SRA and Natalie Crowton, Authorisation Officer, SRA
Qualifying work experience explained (YouTube)
Date: 6 April 2022, 13.00 – 13.45
What is qualifying work experience (QWE)? Join our free webinar to find out and get the facts on:
- what counts as QWE
- how someone meets our requirements
- what confirming QWE involves and who can do it
- how a candidate records their QWE and what they need to tell us
Who: Maxine Warr, Head of Education and Training, SRA (Chair) and Richard Williams, Policy Manager, SRA
On demand webinar
SQE1 - how the first assessment went
Want to know how the first SQE assessment went? Watch our webinar offering an update on what we learnt. Find out more on the results, such as pass marks, how candidates performed and standards setting, contingency planning and next steps.
Other ways to get involved
Join our LinkedIn reference group. It will help you keep up to date with the latest SQE developments and opportunities to get involved in our surveys and events.
If you are thinking about taking the SQE, or know someone who is, please follow Career in Law for the latest information aimed at aspiring solicitors.
If you have any questions, or want more information on how you can get involved, contact us.
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