Law Schools Worldwide

England and Wales: solicitor pathway

Country: United Kingdom. Regulator: Solicitors Regulation Authority. Checked 1 November 2026.

Scope

This page describes only the solicitor profession in England and Wales. It is not a statement about other professions or jurisdictions, and it is not legal advice. Always confirm current rules with the regulator.
Degree recognition

Under the SQE route a degree in any subject, or an equivalent level 6 qualification, is required.

“Degree or equivalent It can be in any subject or an equivalent level 6 qualification”

Official source

Program approval or accreditation

Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.

Additional education or training

Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.

Examination requirements

Candidates must pass both SQE1 and SQE2.

“You will need to pass both parts - SQE1 and SQE2”

Official source

Supervised practice

Two years' full-time or equivalent qualifying work experience is required.

“You will need two years' full time or equivalent”

Official source

Foreign qualification assessment

Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.

Residency or other restrictions

Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.

Online study

Not confirmed. Professional eligibility must be confirmed with the relevant regulator.

Regulator: Solicitors Regulation Authority · official source for this record · last checked 1 November 2026.