The College of Legal Practice has launched a new free guide, Choosing the Right SQE Preparation Course for You, designed to help prospective solicitors make informed decisions about their SQE journey.
With over 100 SQE providers, different preparation structures, study intensities and funding options, deciding how to prepare for the SQE can feel overwhelming. The SQE is expensive to study for, and we recognise that exam fees are carefully saved for over many months. So, fully understanding your choices, investing in the right length of course, with the right support, can make all the difference between a SQE pass and fail.
The SQE is rigorous by design. It assesses a broad range of legal knowledge, practical application and core solicitor skills. Combined with relatively low pass rates, particularly for SQE1, the assessments demand commitment, structured study and exam-focused preparation. And the good news is that this is all in your control – the right course can make all the difference.
The College's new guide has been developed using our experience of preparing thousands of students for the SQE since the very beginning, informed by valuable insights from the College's experienced supervisors and students who have already studied and passed the SQE.
Jane Waddell, Head of Curriculum at the College, said:
"Our aim is not simply to describe courses, but to help students make an informed decision about the training that is right for them, whichever provider they choose. There is no single 'right' route through the SQE, but there will be a route that is right for you."
What's inside the guide?
As a SQE candidate you will discover:
- The key decisions to make before choosing a SQE preparation course
- Guidance on selecting the right study intensity based on your commitments
- The differences between standalone SQE preparation and an LLM with SQE prep
- Ways to finance your SQE journey
- Practical advice from academic experts and supervisors
- Real student insights from those who have studied for and passed the SQE
The guide gives prospective students the clarity, reassurance and practical insight needed to compare their options and choose a preparation course that aligns with their circumstances, goals and preferred way of learning.
Steve Johnson, SQE1 Module Leader at the College shares advice within the guide:
"If in doubt, choose the longer course duration. We see that our students who have more preparation time are more likely to pass SQE1 first time around. Don't rush your preparation."
Download your copy of the guide now
The online guide is live now on the College's website. Aspiring solicitors who are comparing SQE preparation options, considering whether to undertake an LLM, or simply looking for guidance on where to start can download the guide free of charge.