News release

SRA launches fund to support disadvantaged candidates sit the SQE

11 March 2025

Organisations supporting aspiring solicitors from disadvantaged backgrounds are invited to apply for funding to cover candidates' costs of sitting the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE).

Managed by us, the SQE Access and Reinvestment Fund is generated by payments from Kaplan, the SQE provider, in line with contractual arrangements linked to its performance.

The fund, of c.£360,000, which has accumulated since the SQE was launched, is being opened up for the first time.  

Established organisations with a track record of supporting aspiring solicitors can apply. Successful applicants will use their allocation to cover the SQE entry fees of candidates they have selected for support. We will not be involved in choosing candidates and will accept applications from organisations only.   

Paul Philip, SRA Chief Executive said: 'The fund will provide a boost for organisations already working hard to improve access to the profession. The fund should cover the SQE1 entry fees for around 190 candidates from disadvantaged backgrounds. We do not want to see talented individuals being held back by financial constraints and other personal challenges. A diverse profession that can attract the best people and represents the society it serves, is a stronger profession. We look forward to receiving applications and to supporting established schemes.'

Applicants will need to demonstrate how their schemes support committed, self-funding aspiring solicitors who face significant barriers to qualify as a solicitor, such as a disability, a background in a cared for setting, or family estrangement. 

The deadline for applications is Wednesday 30 April. Interested organisations can find more details and apply.