Part of the “Struggling SQE Candidates” Series: Support for Foreign Lawyers, LPC Graduates & Underrepresented Groups
This article is part of a wider series by the Academy of Smart Lawyers aimed at supporting foreign-qualified lawyers, LPC graduates, LLB/GDL students facing financial hardship, and other underrepresented candidates (including mature and female lawyers) as they prepare for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). In this first instalment, we explore the statistical patterns behind SQE1 failure rates – particularly for second-time candidates – and what these patterns reveal about deeper systemic challenges in SQE preparation.
If you’re preparing for SQE, our specialised resources are here to guide you every step of the way:
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Understanding the SQE Exam Structure
Foreign-qualified lawyers often ask: how can I qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales? Do I need another degree? How do I choose the right SQE preparation course? This article helps you make informed decisions. It outlines the basic SQE exam structure and briefly introduces the SQE route.
The SQE, regulated by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), replaces the LPC and GDL and applies to both UK and international candidates. Importantly, you do not need a UK law degree to sit the SQE – only a recognised degree (in any subject), successful completion of the SQE1 and SQE2 exams, and two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).
To qualify, candidates must pass:
- SQE1 exam: a written exam testing legal knowledge
- SQE2 exam: a practical exam testing legal skills
Both assessments are central to the SRA SQE route.
Summary Table: SQE1 vs SQE2
| Feature | SQE1 | SQE2 |
| Assessment Type | Multiple-choice (SBA format) | Skills-based practical assessments |
| Number of Assessments | 2 FLKs (*Functional Legal Knowledge) | 18 SQE2 exams |
| Total Questions / Tasks | 360 questions (180 per FLK) | 18 individual tasks |
| Time per Question / Task | Approx. 1.7 min per MCQ | Varies per skill task |
| Duration | 2 days (FLK1 and FLK2) | 5 days (2 oral, 3 written) |
| Legal Topics | FLK1 and FLK2 (total 14 subjects) | 5 legal practice areas across 6 legal skills |
| Outcome Focus | Application of legal knowledge | Real-world legal skills and applied knowledge |
Note: We count the client interview attendance note as a separate SQE2 assessment.
* Functional Legal Knowledge (FLK): All SQE1 subjects are split into two groups – FLK1 and FLK2. The SRA defines FLK as the practical application of law to real client-based problems- not just knowing the law, but understanding how to use it.
What a Non-UK Resident Needs to Qualify as a Solicitor
To sit the SQE1 exam, you only need a recognised degree (not necessarily in law) and should be prepared for practical legal knowledge application. You must also meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements – this means you must be of good character, without serious disciplinary or criminal records.
You should also be ready to invest substantial time and effort into your SQE preparation. Passing both SQE1 and SQE2 requires dedication, realistic planning, and proper guidance.
If you are a foreign-qualified lawyer, you may also be eligible for SQE2 exemption, depending on your jurisdiction and legal experience. See our eligibility guide for more information.
Why Many SQE1 Candidates Fail the Second Attempt
Let’s explore the SQE1 exam pass rates to better understand performance trends, especially for repeat candidates. Data below is drawn from official SRA SQE1 statistical reports.
Despite the high stakes, many candidates underestimate the SQE1 exam, believing it can be passed with light preparation. The statistics prove otherwise:
- SQE1 January 2025: All Candidates – 56%; First Attempt – 60%
- SQE1 July 2024: All Candidates – 44%; First Attempt – 48%
- SQE1 January 2024: All Candidates – 56%; First Attempt – 59%
These figures show a trend: resitters do not improve their performance. Many blame their first failure on exam nerves or insufficient effort – without changing their SQE online course, materials, or support. As a result, they repeat the same mistakes.
The SQE1 exam tests applied reasoning, procedures, and practice – not just theory. Poor-quality materials and a lack of SQE1 mock training are major causes of failure.
Our Observations from SQE1 Results Analysis
At the Academy of Smart Lawyers, we conduct free SQE results analysis after each exam sitting, including one-on-one support for struggling candidates. Many share that they knew their prep was lacking – but simply couldn’t afford better. This is particularly true for domestic candidates, where financial hardship prevents access to tailored SQE1 preparation.
Challenges for Foreign-Trained Candidates in Choosing a Provider
For foreign lawyers, the challenge is different. Even when funds are available, choosing the right SQE provider is difficult. The SRA does not regulate SQE providers, meaning literally anyone can offer preparation courses. We now see many new names – often unfamiliar and inexperienced – that create an image of credibility through paid Google Ads, polished SEO, slick websites, and unverified feedback. This digital dominance can push these providers to the top of search results despite offering substandard support. This issue deserves its own discussion – but for now, it’s enough to say that many candidates unknowingly invest their hopes (and money) in untested offerings.
On the other hand, we have well-known providers like BARBRI SQE, ULaw SQE, and BPP SQE. These are far safer choices, backed by extensive infrastructure and strong reputations. However, their SQE online or even hybrid courses are expensive and typically designed with:
- Native English speakers
- Common law background
This creates a gap for foreign candidates who:
- Are non-native English speakers
- Come from civil law jurisdictions
While reputable, most of these SQE university of law style programmes are aligned with domestic learning styles. And while full-time, in-person SQE LLM courses – such as those offered by ULaw or BPP – offer better integration and academic support, many international students opt instead for remote, SQE online options that don’t cater to their level or background.
To develop truly effective SQE1 content for foreign lawyers, one must understand both civil and common law systems – and the experience of learning law in a second language.
Our Alternative: Tailored SQE1 for Foreign Candidates
That’s exactly why we created a bespoke SQE1 course at the Academy of Smart Lawyers. It’s been designed for foreign-trained lawyers by those with dual legal backgrounds – many of our tutors are both civil- and common-law trained (LLB/GDL + LPC).
We use legal English simplification, build cultural context, and help students translate civil law logic into the SRA’s functional legal knowledge approach.
Our programme offers:
👥 Interactive Live Lectures
We host collaborative lectures where tutors and students engage in real-time discussion. Students can ask questions, clarify complex points, and hear live elaboration on exam tactics. These sessions are especially useful for developing exam strategy and confidence.
👤 Personalised 1-to-1 Support
For students needing more focused help, we offer personalised sessions with tutors who are native speakers, yet have extensive experience living abroad and teaching foreign-trained lawyers. This makes our communication practical and inclusive.
🎥 Pre-recorded Dual-Tutor Lectures
Our pre-recorded lectures are co-delivered by two tutors to enhance understanding. This dual-voice format introduces different practical perspectives and real-life scenarios, helping students absorb and retain knowledge better.
📚 Comprehensive Synopsis Notes
Alongside lectures, students receive structured synopsis notes – a set of detailed and highly organised legal notes, covering everything needed to succeed in the exam.
💡 Growing Bank of MCQs & Active Learning
We are building a large and growing bank of challenging SQE1 multiple-choice questions, written in the single best answer format. These MCQs are crafted by our academic team and students alike. As part of our method, we encourage students to create their own MCQs – a proven way to deepen understanding and master exam technique.
🛒 Marketplace Flexibility
Students are not required to subscribe to a full course package. Instead, they can pick and purchase only what they need from the SUPERexam marketplace – making our support flexible and accessible.
✅ Next Steps
- Register on the SUPERexam platform to access FREE SQE1 sample materials and SQE1 insights exam
- Join our Live SQE Classes – just £25 per session. See the full schedule
- Or explore ourSQE1 Course Page to learn more about how we support foreign-qualified lawyers and resitters with a flexible, tutor-led approach.
All data sourced from:
- SRA SQE1 January 2025 Statistical Report
- SRA SQE1 July 2024 Statistical Report
- SRA SQE1 January 2024 Statistical Report
📞 Need Help? Let’s Talk.
If you’re unsure which SQE route is right for you or need guidance tailored to your background, we’re here to help. Whether you’re a foreign-qualified lawyer, LPC graduate, or an LLB/GDL student facing challenges — our team can provide personalised advice based on your situation.
👉 Complete the below short form and book a free call with one of our senior SQE advisors. Let’s plan your best path to qualification.
