The SQE framework offers greater flexibility in the qualification journey, as candidates may undertake their Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) before, during, or after completing SQE1 and SQE2. However, for those pursuing the traditional training contract route, the period of QWE will generally begin only once both SQE1 and SQE2 have been successfully completed.
SQE2
SQE2
Guide to Part Two of the New Route to Qualifying as a Solicitor
Step 1
SQE1 – Knowledge Assessment
- Introduced on 1 September 2021 as part of the new centralised route to qualification.
- Focuses on testing Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) through multiple-choice questions.
- Provides the foundation of core legal principles required for practice.
Step 2
SQE2 – Skills Assessment
- Can only be attempted once SQE1 has been successfully completed.
- Assesses the practical skills needed for day-to-day legal practice, such as client interviewing, advocacy, case analysis, and legal writing.
- Mirrors key practical elements of the former Legal Practice Course (LPC).
What does SQE2 involve?
SQE2 is designed to test a candidate’s ability to apply legal knowledge in real-world scenarios through six practical skills assessments:
- Client Interviewing and Attendance Notes – assessing the ability to engage with clients, obtain relevant information, and produce accurate records.
- Advocacy – demonstrating oral communication, persuasion, and legal argument in a simulated courtroom setting.
- Case and Matter Analysis – evaluating how effectively candidates can identify key issues, apply law to facts, and provide structured solutions.
- Legal Research and Written Advice – testing the ability to research relevant legal sources and communicate findings in clear, practical advice.
- Legal Drafting – producing precise and legally sound documents tailored to the client’s needs.
- Legal Writing – demonstrating clarity, accuracy, and professionalism in written communication.
These skills are assessed across five practice areas:
Assessment Format
SQE2 is structured around 16 practical exercises, designed to comprehensively test both written and oral skills. These assessments are spread over several days and collectively take around 14 hours to complete. Individual exercise scores are then combined to produce one overall mark.
- Oral Assessments (4 exercises): Focus on client interviewing with an accompanying attendance note/legal analysis, as well as advocacy.
- Written Assessments (12 exercises): Cover case and matter analysis, legal writing, legal research, and legal drafting.
For full details of the SQE assessment requirements, candidates should consult the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
SQE2 Costs and Preparation(As of 2025)
The SQE2 assessment fee is £2,902, payable directly to the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). This does not include the fee for SQE1 (£1,888) or the cost of any preparation courses.
While undertaking a prep course is not mandatory, the structure and style of SQE assessments are distinct from traditional examinations. As a result, many candidates find tailored preparation invaluable for success.
- SQE2 Preparation Courses: Fees vary significantly depending on the provider. Basic online packages typically start at around £2,500, with more.comprehensive options costing considerably more.
- SQE1 Preparation Courses: Any support for SQE1 preparation is charged separately, in addition to the SQE1 exam fee.