If you want to know how to become a solicitor in England and Wales, the answer changed in 2021. The old route (law degree, LPC, training contract) is being phased out, and most new solicitors now qualify through the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). The new system is more flexible: you don’t need a law degree, and you can gain work experience in several places.
The four requirements to qualify
Under the SQE, everyone must:
- Hold a degree (in any subject) or an equivalent qualification, such as a degree apprenticeship or level 6 qualification.
- Pass SQE1: two exams testing “functioning legal knowledge” through multiple-choice questions.
- Pass SQE2: practical legal skills assessments, including advocacy, interviewing, legal writing, drafting and research.
- Complete two years of qualifying work experience (QWE), full time or equivalent.
You must also pass the SRA’s character and suitability assessment before admission.
Always check the SRA website for current rules and exam fees, which are updated regularly.
Step 1: get a degree (any subject)
A law degree helps with SQE1 content, but it’s no longer required. Many non-law graduates take an SQE preparation course or a conversion-style master’s before sitting SQE1.
Step 2: prepare for and pass SQE1
SQE1 covers core areas such as contract, tort, business law, dispute resolution, property, wills, criminal law, and ethics. It’s a demanding closed-book exam. Most candidates take a preparation course from a law school or training provider, though it’s not compulsory.
Step 3: qualifying work experience (QWE)
QWE must total two years and can be:
- done with up to four different organisations,
- in law firms, in-house legal teams, law centres, university law clinics, or as a paralegal,
- completed before, during or after the exams.
Each period must be confirmed by a solicitor or compliance officer. This flexibility means paralegal experience can count, which is a big change from the old training contract system. Many large firms still run structured two-year programmes that work like the old training contracts.
Step 4: pass SQE2
SQE2 tests practical skills in realistic tasks. The SRA recommends taking it once you have some practical experience, because it reflects day-to-day work as a newly qualified solicitor.
Step 5: character and suitability, then admission
Once everything is complete, you apply to be admitted to the roll of solicitors.
Alternative route: solicitor apprenticeship
A solicitor apprenticeship lets you qualify while working and earning, usually over about six years, with no tuition fees. Apprentices work at a law firm or company, study part time, and sit the SQE as part of the programme. It’s a strong option if you want to avoid university debt.
How long does it take?
| Route | Typical time |
|---|---|
| Law degree → SQE1 → QWE → SQE2 | About 5–6 years from starting university |
| Non-law degree → SQE prep → SQE1 → QWE → SQE2 | About 6–7 years |
| Solicitor apprenticeship | About 6 years, earning throughout |
What does it cost?
Costs depend heavily on your route. The SQE1 and SQE2 exam fees together cost several thousand pounds, and preparation courses add more. Many large firms pay for their future trainees’ courses and exams. Check current SRA fees before budgeting.
Transitional arrangements
If you started a qualifying law degree, LPC or training contract before September 2021, you may still be able to qualify through the old route until the end of 2032. Check the SRA’s transitional rules to see if they apply to you.
Solicitor or barrister?
Solicitors mostly advise clients directly and handle transactions and case preparation. Barristers specialise in advocacy and specialist opinions. See our comparison: solicitor vs barrister. For the bigger picture, read the legal career guide.
FAQ
Can you become a solicitor without a law degree?
Yes. Under the SQE, any degree (or equivalent qualification) is accepted.
Does paralegal work count as QWE?
It can, if the work gives you the chance to develop the competences the SRA sets and is confirmed by a solicitor.
Is the training contract gone?
The formal training contract is being phased out, but many firms still offer structured two-year programmes that count as QWE.
