About the SQE

Table of Contents

1. SQE Exam Explained: Your Path to Becoming a Solicitor

Embarking on the journey to become a solicitor in England and Wales requires passing the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about the SQE, including its structure, costs, and tips for effective preparation to help you succeed on your first attempt.

2. What is the SQE Exam?

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a standardized exam designed to streamline the solicitor qualification process. Replacing the Legal Practice Course (LPC), the SQE ensures consistent and high standards across the legal profession in England and Wales. It evaluates both theoretical knowledge and practical legal skills required to practice law in the UK.

3. SQE Exam Format and Content

The SQE exam consists of two stages: SQE1 and SQE2. Each stage assesses specific areas of legal knowledge and practical skills essential for newly qualified solicitors.

3.1 SQE1 – Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) Assessments

SQE1 focuses on assessing your understanding of legal principles and their practical application. It consists of two key assessments:

  • FLK1: Covers topics like Business Law, Dispute Resolution, Contract Law, Tort Law, The Legal System of England and Wales, Constitutional and Administrative Law, and retained EU law.
  • FLK2: Includes subjects such as Property Practice, Wills and Estate Administration, Solicitors Accounts, Land Law, Trusts, Criminal Law, and Criminal Litigation.

Each assessment contains 180 multiple-choice questions based on real-world scenarios.

3.2 SQE2 – Practical Legal Skills

SQE2 is designed to test your ability to perform critical legal tasks. The areas assessed include:

  • Client Interviewing
  • Advocacy
  • Legal Drafting
  • Case Analysis

These practical assessments ensure you are ready for the challenges of real-world legal practice.

4. Are the SQE Exams Difficult?

Yes, the SQE exams are challenging, as they assess a broad spectrum of legal knowledge and skills. However, with thorough preparation and resources like MyQuestionBanks, you can confidently tackle both SQE1 and SQE2 and maximize your chances of success.

5. Are the SQE Exams Open or Closed Book?

Both SQE1 and SQE2 are closed-book exams, meaning you will need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the legal principles without relying on external resources.

6. How to Take the SQE Exams

The SQE is computer-based and available at testing centers both within the UK and globally. SQE1 is completed over two days, while SQE2 includes both written and oral assessments, spread over multiple days.

7. SQE Exam Costs

  • SQE1: £1,888 (divided between FLK1 and FLK2)
  • SQE2: £2,902

These fees cover the cost of the exams themselves and exclude preparation courses or retake fees.

8. Pass Marks for the SQE

Pass marks for the SQE exams vary due to the use of scaled scoring, ensuring fairness across different exam versions. To pass SQE1, a scaled score of 300 out of 500 is required. SQE2 is assessed holistically to determine whether you meet the standard expected of a newly qualified solicitor.

9. Preparing for the SQE with MyQuestionBanks

Effective preparation is key to passing the SQE. MyQuestionBanks offers valuable resources, including:

  • Sample Questions: Covering both FLK1 and FLK2 topics.
  • Detailed Explanations: Gain insights into why answers are correct or incorrect.
  • Pro Tips: Expert advice to improve your legal problem-solving skills.

10. Are SQE Prep Courses Worth It?

Yes! Prep courses help build confidence, improve time management, and prepare you to tackle complex scenarios. Structured preparation is often credited as the key to success by many successful SQE candidates.

11. Retaking the SQE Exams

Candidates can retake the SQE exams up to three times within six years. For SQE1, individual assessments can be retaken, while SQE2 requires the retaking of specific tasks.

12. Why Choose MyQuestionBanks for SQE Prep?

MyQuestionBanks is your ultimate resource for preparing for the SQE, offering:

  • Comprehensive question banks (unlimited questions) aligned with the SQE syllabus.
  • Affordable subscription plans for students and professionals.
  • Exclusive study materials designed by legal experts.
  • Study by topic and set question count

13. FAQs About the SQE Exam

Q: Are SQE Exams Online?
A: No, the exams are conducted in-person at designated centers.

Q: What Are SQE Prep Courses?
A: These courses offer structured training, mock exams, and study materials to help you prepare for the SQE exams.

Q: How Long Should I Prepare for the SQE?
A: On average, candidates spend 9–12 months preparing for both stages of the SQE.

14. Start Your SQE Journey with Confidence

Becoming a solicitor is an achievable goal with the right preparation. With MyQuestionBanks, you can confidently prepare for the SQE exams and take the first step toward a successful legal career.