The latest data from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) has revealed a concerning decline in the SQE1 pass rate, with only 44% of candidates passing the exam in the most recent July 2024 sitting. This marks the lowest pass rate for the SQE1 since its introduction in 2021 and represents a significant drop from the 56% pass rate recorded in January 2024.
No matter if you’re studying for SQE1 or SQE2, our expert resources are designed to support you throughout your preparation:
A Notable Decline in SQE1 Pass Rates
Of the 5,006 candidates who sat for both Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK1) and Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK2) papers, fewer than half managed to secure a pass. The July 2024 pass rate of 44% is a sharp decline compared to previous sittings and raises concerns about the SQE1’s increasing difficulty or the preparedness of candidates for this new assessment format.
The latest report from the SRA, published on 1 October 2024, also notes that candidates sitting the exam for the first time performed slightly better than their peers, with 48% of first-time candidates achieving a passing score. However, this figure still falls short of the January 2024 pass rate and indicates that even first-time test-takers are struggling with the demands of the SQE1 exam.
Performance Across SQE1 FLK1 and FLK2 Papers
The SQE1 exam is divided into two parts: FLK1 and FLK2, each testing candidates on different areas of legal knowledge. According to the SRA report, the pass rates for these two papers show significant variation. For the July 2024 sitting, 55% of candidates passed FLK1, while only 50% passed FLK2. This disparity between the two papers reflects the different levels of difficulty candidates may face depending on the areas of law being tested.
SQE1 FLK1, which covers areas like business law, dispute resolution, contract, and tort law, saw a slightly higher pass rate than SQE1 FLK2, which focuses on areas such as property law, wills, solicitors’ accounts, and criminal law. Given that both papers require an in-depth understanding and application of legal principles, these results may indicate that candidates find the latter subjects more challenging or less familiar.
What Is Contributing to the Decline?
The drop in the SQE1 pass rate has sparked discussions about what might be causing this decline in performance. A range of factors may be contributing to the lower success rates, including the following:
Increased Complexity of the SQE1 Exam
The SQE was introduced as part of a broader reform to make qualifying as a solicitor more accessible and flexible. However, the exam’s new format is still relatively young, and candidates, as well as SQE1 preparation providers, may still be adjusting to the increased complexity and breadth of knowledge tested. With the SQE covering an extensive range of legal topics and requiring not just theoretical knowledge but also practical application, it could be that many candidates are finding the demands of the exam higher than expected.
Preparedness of SQE1 Candidates
Another possible explanation for the lower pass rates could be the preparedness of candidates sitting the SQE1. Unlike the previous qualification routes, where students would undertake a law degree followed by the Legal Practice Course (LPC), SQE candidates come from a variety of educational backgrounds. The variability in the quality and intensity of SQE1 preparation may be affecting performance, with some candidates underestimating the depth of knowledge required.
Additionally, some training providers may focus on marketing their courses without adequately emphasising the complexity of the SQE1. This could lead to candidates being ill-prepared for the rigors of the exam, highlighting the need for more transparent communication about the challenge it presents.
First-Time vs Repeat Candidates
The disparity in pass rates between first-time candidates (48%) and repeat candidates suggests that resitting the SQE1 does not automatically lead to higher success. This may be due to candidates retaking the exam without making significant changes to their preparation strategies or sufficiently enhancing their legal knowledge.
We strongly advise against adopting a “roulette” approach to the exam. With only three attempts allowed, each failed attempt can increase anxiety and pressure, potentially undermining future performance. It’s crucial to thoroughly review and adjust your preparation methods before each SQE1 retake.
Financial and Time Pressures
Another challenge for many SQE candidates is the financial cost of the exams and the pressure to pass within a limited timeframe. Many candidates are balancing the demands of studying for the SQE1 alongside full-time work or other commitments. These pressures may contribute to suboptimal exam preparation and ultimately lower pass rates.
The Road Ahead for SQE Candidates
The declining pass rates for SQE1 underscore the importance of rethinking how candidates prepare for this challenging exam. Aspiring solicitors might need to reassess their strategies, potentially dedicating more time to comprehensive study plans that include structured courses, mock exams, and personalised tutoring. Additionally, having access to multiple preparation providers could offer candidates a broader range of resources and methodologies.
This diversity of options allows candidates to select the approach that best suits their learning style, ensuring they’re better equipped to meet the rigorous demands of the SQE.
Ultimately, investing in thorough preparation is far more cost-effective than repeatedly paying for exam retakes.
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