The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has become the new benchmark for aspiring solicitors in England and Wales. With its introduction, many candidates are keen to understand the structure of the examination, especially the resit policy. This article explores how many times candidates can resit both SQE1 and SQE2 assessments, the implications of failing, and practical tips for preparing for your retake.
Whether you’re preparing for SQE1 or SQE2, our specialised resources are here to guide you every step of the way:
SQE1 Course
SQE2 Training
SQE2 Mocks
What is the Structure of the SQE?
Before diving into the resit policy, it’s essential to grasp the SQE’s structure. The SQE consists of two primary assessments, each designed to evaluate different aspects of a candidate’s legal knowledge and skills.
SQE1: Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK)
SQE1 focuses on Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) and is structured to assess candidates’ understanding of key legal principles across a variety of subjects. This assessment is divided into two parts:
- SQE1 FLK1: This section tests candidates on essential legal knowledge, including areas such as contract law, tort law, criminal law, and constitutional law.
- SQE1 FLK2: This part evaluates candidates on their understanding of practical legal knowledge, which includes aspects of property law, commercial law, and ethics.
SQE1 comprises multiple-choice questions that require candidates to apply their knowledge to hypothetical scenarios. This assessment is pivotal, as it ensures that candidates possess the necessary theoretical foundation to proceed to the next stage of the SQE.
SQE2: Practical Legal Skills
SQE2 is designed to assess the practical skills required for effective legal practice. This assessment is comprised of various tasks that mirror real-world scenarios, allowing candidates to demonstrate their ability to apply legal knowledge in practical settings. Key components of SQE2 include:
- Client Interviewing: Candidates are tested on their ability to conduct effective client interviews, gathering relevant information while demonstrating empathy and professionalism.
- Advocacy: This component evaluates candidates’ skills in presenting cases, making legal arguments, and engaging in effective courtroom practice.
- Legal Research and Writing: Candidates must showcase their ability to research legal issues and produce clear, concise legal documents.
- Drafting: This assesses candidates’ competency in drafting legal documents.
- Matter Analysis: It involves the ability to identify relevant legal facts, apply appropriate legal principles, and provide accurate advice based on the analysis of the matter at hand.
Both assessments are critical for obtaining qualified solicitor status, and understanding their structure helps candidates prepare more effectively for their respective challenges.
The Resit Policy Explained
Attempts Allowed
Candidates are permitted three attempts at both SQE1 and SQE2. However, these attempts must be completed within six years from the first attempt at an SQE assessment. This time frame begins from the first day you sit for your first assessment, making it critical to understand your timeline.
Resitting SQE1
– Initial Attempt: If you fail FLK1 and/or FLK2 on your first attempt, you have two additional opportunities to retake the specific assessment(s) you failed.
– Subsequent Failures: If you fail FLK1 and/or FLK2 three times within the six-year period, you will have to wait until the six years are up before you can reapply. In this case, previous passes will not carry over, and you will need to retake all parts of the SQE1.
Retaking SQE2
– Initial Attempt: Similarly, if you fail SQE2 at the first attempt, you have two more opportunities to retake the exam within the same six-year timeframe.
– Subsequent Failures: If you fail SQE2 three times during this period, you will again have to wait for the six-year period to expire before you can reapply, and past passes will not be taken into account.
Booking SQE Resits
It’s important to note that you cannot book to resit an assessment until you have received the results of your previous attempt. This policy emphasises the need for candidates to reflect on their performance before attempting the exam again.
Limits on Resitting Passed Assessments
Candidates are also restricted from resitting assessments they have already passed. This means you cannot attempt to improve your marks in any area where you have already demonstrated competence.
Tips for Preparing for a SQE Retake
Here are a few practical tips to help you prepare for your resit:
- Reflect on Your Previous Attempt: Take the time to review your performance in the previous exam. Identify the areas where you struggled and focus your revision efforts on those weak points. Understanding why you failed is the first step toward success in your resit.
- Revise More Effectively: Practise past papers, take mock exams, and engage in interactive study methods to deepen your understanding of the material.
- Focus on Time Management: In both SQE1 and SQE2, time management is key. Practise answering questions and completing tasks under timed conditions to ensure you can perform under the pressure of the exam environment.
The Importance of Seeking Support
Failing an SQE exam can be a disheartening experience, but you don’t have to face it alone. One of the most effective ways to overcome the challenges of retaking the exam is by seeking support from those who have successfully navigated the process. Mentors, tutors, and peers who have passed the SQE can provide invaluable advice, share their personal experiences, and offer emotional support to help you stay motivated and focused.
If you’ve been preparing on your own and have already failed at least once, it’s a good idea to reach out for help. In the end, trying to save money by going it alone often results in spending more.
Personalised guidance is also a powerful tool for success. Many SQE preparation courses, such as those offered by the Academy of Smart Lawyers, provide tailored feedback and individualised coaching that can significantly boost your confidence and performance. Our team of tutors, having passed the SQE themselves, truly understand the intricacies of the exam and what it takes to succeed. We offer one-to-one SQE2 mock sessions, allowing you to practise in a realistic exam setting that mirrors the actual test environment.
With the right support and the comprehensive resources provided by the Academy of Smart Lawyers, you can approach your SQE retake with confidence.
