Latest SQE1 results show 53% overall pass rate with notable performance gaps
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has published its latest statistical report for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE1), revealing that just over half of candidates passed the assessment in January 2026.
According to the report, the overall pass rate for candidates who sat both parts of SQE1 was 53%. The assessment is divided into two components Functioning Legal Knowledge 1 (FLK1) and Functioning Legal Knowledge 2 (FLK2) which recorded pass rates of 62% and 57% respectively.
A total of 7,918 candidates sat both parts of the examination, with 7,863 receiving graded results. The required passing score for each component was set at 300.
Performance data shows higher success rates among first-time candidates. Those sitting the assessment for the first time achieved a combined pass rate of 58%, compared with the overall rate of 53%.
The report also provides insight into candidate performance across demographic and socio-economic groups. Variations in pass rates were observed across ethnic backgrounds. Candidates identifying as White recorded a pass rate of 67% for SQE1, while candidates identifying as Asian or Asian British achieved 47%, and Black or Black British candidates recorded 38%.
Differences were also noted in educational attainment. Candidates holding a first-class degree achieved a pass rate of 79%, compared with 57% for those with a 2:1 and 20% for those with a 2:2 classification.
Socio-economic background appeared to influence outcomes. Candidates whose parents attended university recorded a pass rate of 62%, compared with 50% among those whose parents did not.
The report further highlighted variations linked to schooling and language. Candidates educated at independent schools achieved higher pass rates than those from non-selective state schools, while candidates whose first language was English recorded a pass rate of 62%, compared with 46% for those whose first language was not English.
Average scores for the assessments were 311.2 for FLK1 and 304.3 for FLK2, with median scores of 319 and 312 respectively.
The SRA stated that the SQE is designed as a single, standardised assessment for all aspiring solicitors, intended to ensure consistent standards across the profession. The report forms part of ongoing efforts to monitor performance and provide transparency about outcomes.
Further data, including performance trends over time and additional analysis, is expected to be published in the SRA’s annual report.