SQE

SQE

Since 1 September 2021, there is a new route to qualification for aspiring solicitors—the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

This subtopic explains the SQE and key implications for employers offering training and work experience to aspiring solicitors.

For information on the training contract route to qualification, see subtopic: Training contracts.

The SQE route to qualification

In order to qualify as a solicitor under the SQE, the candidate must:

•
have a UK degree in any subject (or a qualification or experience that is equivalent to a degree—this would include a solicitor apprenticeship)
•
pass two SQE assessments, and
•
have two years’ full-time (or full-time

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