It might seem strange to study a solicitor training course from a UK-based provider, if you’re based abroad. But one of the top benefits of the SQE qualification route is that once you’ve passed and completed your QWE, you’re not only qualified in practising English & Welsh law globally, but you may well be on your way to practising in a much broader range of jurisdictions, particularly common law countries.
However, studying from afar can still be a challenge—so, here are the top five tips highlighted by our international students when studying for the SQE.
Five tips for International students studying for the SQE
1: Be mindful of the time difference
The time zone difference for live surgeries, workshops and personal supervisions for instance, means you need to stay organised and set a schedule. The College has many group sessions recorded, but it is so much better for you to attend live if you can, so you can engage with fellow students, supervisors and feel part of the student community.
As time goes on, you’ll develop a routine around the time difference and staying on track will become comparatively easier. Fortunately, having guided learning and online resources available at hand, helps to open up more flexibility and opportunities to help you to work at different times across the week and sleep easily at night.
“In SQE2 prep, never miss a feedback session. Even if you didn’t turn any work in or think you performed poorly, feedback sessions are ideal getting you up to speed with the course and brushing up your knowledge of each practice area. Then, you can work with the tutor to understand what the assessors are looking for in each particular assessment section.” Salma, SQE2 student based in Dubai
2: Plan your weekly study in advance
In your calendars, there are specific days when you have assignments. These assignments really help you test out your knowledge and skills and how much you have understood and absorbed. It’s a good idea to work back from those assignment dates. Then, you can theme your week around that assessment and that topic - this is what you need to focus on, these are the key areas that you need to know, and the subject matters that you need to revise. The study techniques you use and times of day that you work up to the assignment deadline, are up to you.
“By starting early, you can work through the materials consistently and at your own pace, rather than rushing in the final few weeks. When you take it at a day-by-day, week-by-week pace, it becomes more routine and easier.” – Lucas, international student
3: Prepare to invest time in learning lots of new legal terms
Buy a good dictionary! If you are starting off learning about the law of England & Wales for the first time, you’ll encounter new terms and phrases and though you might feel lost, law has its own language whether it’s in English, Spanish, or French etc, so many of our students will be feeling the same. Some non-native English speakers can find it harder to prepare for the SQE, so you may need to put more time aside to ensure you can fully understand the legal principles involved, and their application, particularly for SQE1.
4: Plan your SQE assessments early
Identify which SQE assessments you are aiming for. Whilst the SRA offers SQE1 and SQE2 written assessments in many areas of the world, it is likely you will have to travel to take the assessments. Plan your travel well in advance, and consider in your budgeting accommodation, travel and timings. The SQE1 exams are over a two-week period. For SQE2 oral, you will need to come to England and Wales to take the exams, and SQE2 can take three weeks. So think about your leave, caring commitments, travel and timings well in advance. The good news is that a student visa is not required when you travel to the UK to take the assessments.
5: Seek support from the experienced College team
If you have any issues with your enrolment process or learning, seek out the student services team or your supervisor. They can help you with understanding overseas payments and sending you materials for example, the learning structure and of course, the SQE assessments. They will help you solve the issues quickly and get back to studying.
“Choosing The College of Legal Practice for my SQE1 preparation was a decision driven primarily by two factors: their reasonable pricing and a schedule that fit perfectly with my commitments. Reflecting on my experience, I have no regrets. In January, I passed the SQE 1 on my first attempt after enrolling in a part-time prep course, a testament to the effective support provided by COLP.”
“The expectation is clear: be prepared to invest countless hours into your studies. COLP indeed makes the journey smoother, but the effort and commitment must come from you.” Mazin, SQE1 student
Conclusion
Ultimately, the SQE is a highly attractive option for students looking to qualify in several countries. And with the College’s online prep courses, there’s no need to move or regularly jet into the UK—all learning materials and live sessions are stored and recorded for you to use and watch at your convenience. The only time you will need to travel to England & Wales is to take the SQE2 oral assessments themselves.
Additionally, the costs of the College’s courses are the same for students based in the UK or abroad, with just the additional postage to pay for manuals should you need hard copies.
The College of Legal Practice has a dedicated information page for international students, featuring a number of extra tips and FAQs. Visit to learn more about studying the SQE internationally, or alternatively get in touch with our friendly team.