SQE exemptions

Last updated: 12 December 2024

What is an SQE exemption?

When a qualified lawyer does not have to sit one or more of the SQE assessments.

What is a qualified lawyer?

A qualified lawyer is someone who holds a professional legal qualification which confers rights to practise in England and Wales or in another jurisdiction.

What exemptions can you apply for?

SQE2

To gain an SQE2 exemption, you must show that you have the skills assessed to the same standard as candidates taking the SQE2. This is done through your qualification(s), practice rights and professional legal work experience, or a combination of both.

If you cannot meet these requirements, you can sit the SQE2 assessment once you have passed the SQE1.

The drop-down list below shows the qualifications we have looked at for an SQE2 exemption.

If your jurisdiction or qualification is not on the list, this means we have not had an application relating to that qualification or may be currently considering one. However, you can still make an individual application.

SQE1

SQE1 is comprised of two 180-question assessments (FLK 1 and FLK 2) taken over 10 hours. It requires a high level of knowledge and application of the law and legal practice in England and Wales.

If you choose to apply for an exemption, your evidence will need to show that: 

1. Your qualifications and/or work experience cover the areas of law assessed in SQE1 – either for FLK 1 or FLK 2, or the whole assessment.
2. The law where you are qualified and/or have done your work experience is not substantially different to the law of England and Wales.
3. Your qualifications and/or experience are equivalent to level three of our SRA Threshold Standard.
4. You have detailed references from your supervisor(s) to corroborate all your work experience.
5. You have relevant samples of your work. For example, redacted attendance notes, letters to clients etc.

Given how difficult it is to obtain an exemption from SQE1, you may wish to sit the assessment instead. To do this, you will need create an account and register to sit the exam.

If you still wish to apply for an SQE1 exemption, please contact us for guidance before applying.

Who cannot apply

We will not grant you an exemption from any part of the SQE that you have failed or are still waiting for your results from. If you fail an assessment, you must retake it and pass to be eligible to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales.

SQE2 exemption finder

The professional legal work experience listed against each qualification (title) includes any mandatory work experience completed in that qualification.