SQE Update - August 2025
In this bulletin, find out about our aspiring and newly qualified solicitors’ case studies, the fund to support people from disadvantaged backgrounds and our qualifying work experience resources. You can also watch our latest webinar looking at the options available for studying for the SQE.
Introducing our new case study series
Over the coming months, join us as we dive into the real-life experiences of aspiring and newly qualified solicitors. Discover their study methods, support strategies and access top tips. Also learn how they did their qualifying work experience and how aspiring solicitors balanced work commitments with exam preparation.
£360,000 for disadvantaged candidates taking the SQE
We have distributed £360,000 to 11 organisations to support people from disadvantaged backgrounds with the cost of sitting the SQE. These organisations provide a range of legal, educational and social mobility services and aim to make the legal industry more accessible to people from underrepresented groups.
Read more about the fund and the successful organisations
Studying for the SQE: key insights from aspiring and qualified solicitors
Watch our latest SQE webinar offering key insights from aspiring and qualified solicitors, with personal experiences and valuable advice into how candidates prepared for the assessments. Catch up via our on-demand facility.
Taking the SQE explained: from studying to results
Our latest video explains the journey when taking the SQE and highlights the key steps along the way. Find out more about how to prepare, register, book and sit the exams, along with what to expect on the day and how you get your results.
Qualifying work experience – what it means for solicitors and law firms
Under the SQE route, aspiring solicitors must complete two years of full-time (or equivalent) qualifying work experience (QWE). This must involve providing real legal services and give candidates the opportunity to develop competences from the Statement of Solicitor Competence.
To support employers, we have a range of resources offering information and guidance on QWE.
- what employers need to know about QWE
- guidance for solicitors confirming QWE
- guidance on what we expect from firms offering QWE
- QWE training template
- recording and confirming qualifying work experience in mySRA (video)
- QWE: ensuring a positive candidate experience (webinar)
- qualifying work experience back to basics (webinar).
Validating a degree
Aspiring solicitors must have their degree or equivalent qualification checked before they apply for admission as a solicitor. We have updated key information about this, including what we will need from candidates, international degree check costs and how long it will take for an outcome.
Want to help assess the next generation of solicitors?
Kaplan, the SQE assessment provider, is looking for experienced solicitors to join its pool of SQE2 markers. You will be marking the SQE2 written assessments and/or attendance note/legal analysis. The deadline to apply is Monday 8 September.
Find out what's involved and how to apply
SQE Conference highlights – read our second blog
If you couldn't join us for our SQE conference earlier this year, you can now read a blog from Policy Manager Richard Williams summarising recent changes to the SQE arrangements.
Read more about the practical solutions
You can also watch all recordings on demand.
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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