Do I need a law degree to sit the SQE?

No. You need a degree or equivalent in any subject. Many non-law graduates take a conversion course or SQE preparation course first to build the legal knowledge SQE1 tests.

How long does it take to qualify through the SQE?

It varies. Many candidates take a year or more to prepare for and pass both stages, alongside two years of qualifying work experience, which can be gained before, during or after the exams.

Is the LPC still available?

Transitional arrangements let some candidates who started on the old route qualify through it until the end of 2032. New candidates generally qualify through the SQE. Check the SRA's guidance for your situation.

The SQE Explained: How to Qualify as a Solicitor

The SQE explained

By the Top Tutors Online editorial team · Updated 4 November 2026 · 3 min read

The short answer

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the route to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. Candidates need a degree or equivalent, must pass SQE1 (two multiple-choice papers on Functioning Legal Knowledge) and SQE2 (practical legal skills), complete two years of qualifying work experience, and meet the SRA's character and suitability requirements. A law degree is not required.

Key points

SQE1: two multiple-choice papers, FLK1 and FLK2, testing Functioning Legal Knowledge.
SQE2: written and oral assessments of practical legal skills.
Two years of qualifying work experience (QWE), which can be with up to four organisations.
You need a degree or equivalent qualification in any subject.
The SRA sets the rules; check its website for current dates and fees.

How the SQE route works

The SQE replaced the old route of the GDL or LLB plus the LPC and a training contract. It is run by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). To qualify you need a degree or equivalent, passes in SQE1 and SQE2, two years of qualifying work experience, and to meet the character and suitability requirements.

SQE1

SQE1 has two papers, FLK1 and FLK2, made up of single-best-answer multiple-choice questions on legal knowledge applied to client scenarios. It covers areas including business law, dispute resolution, contract, tort, the legal system, property, wills and trusts, criminal law and practice, and ethics. Candidates need to know the law precisely and apply it quickly.

SQE2

SQE2 tests practical skills such as client interviewing, advocacy, case analysis, legal research, legal writing and drafting. It is assessed through written and oral exercises across several practice areas. Many candidates take SQE2 after gaining some work experience.

Qualifying work experience

QWE is two years of experience providing legal services. It can be gained with up to four organisations, including law firms, in-house legal teams and law clinics, and is confirmed by a solicitor or compliance officer.

Planning your preparation

Map the SQE1 assessment specification against what you already know, especially if you do not have a law degree.
Build knowledge subject by subject, then move to mixed multiple-choice practice.
Practise under time: SQE1 questions need quick, accurate application.
For SQE2, practise each skill with feedback from experienced practitioners.

Our SQE tutors are qualified solicitors and experienced law tutors who help with both stages, alongside support for the GDL and PGDL and law degrees.

This guide gives general information and was correct when last reviewed. Exams, deadlines and rules change, so always check the official website of the exam board, school, university or regulator.