The Real Reason Why the SQE Exam is So Tough!

Sep 26, 2023

Written By Zara Arif

Just 51% of candidates passed the recent SQE1 exam, giving this new route to qualification a reputation for being much harder than the previous LPC. Most people continue to attribute the low pass rates of the exam to its novelty, but this article will aim to uncover the real reasons behind the difficulties of the SQE. Fully understanding the SQE is important for all future lawyers as the LPC is being phased out and the SQE will soon become the only route to professional qualification.

Understanding the SQE

The Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) is a set of exams that all aspiring lawyers in England and Wales must sit and pass in order to qualify. The exams are taken after completing undergraduate or masters’ studies and are a replacement for the previous Legal Practice Course (LPC).

The SQE is designed to test a broader range of skills, especially practical advocacy skills in order to ensure that future lawyers are more dynamic and well-rounded. It has two sections: SQE1 and SQE2 which test theoretical and practical aspects of the law respectively.

A Comprehensive Assessment

The SQE is a comprehensive assessment as it covers a wide range of legal topics, including areas like contract law, criminal law, and tort law.

The SQE1 is also known as Functional Legal Knowledge (FLK) and tests the basic application of key legal principles and rules. It’s divided into two sections (FLK1 and FLK2) and you’ll need to pass both in order to continue to SQE2.

The SQE2 is a skills assessment and tests practical legal skills such as negotiation and drafting.

Both parts of the assessment require thorough preparation. Success in the SQE is dependent on a deep understanding of legal concepts and practical skills, making comprehensive preparation essential.

The Challenges of Application

As mentioned above, candidates are expected to perform tasks such as drafting legal documents, conducting client interviews, or even representing clients in simulated scenarios.

The greatest challenge comes in the form of applying legal knowledge as the SQE requires candidates to go beyond rote memorisation and asks for the applications of legal principles to real-world scenarios.

This application of knowledge is also made even trickier with the added complexity of time constraints in the SQE assessments. For example, for SQE1, you’ll have two hours 33 minutes to answer 90 questions, and each question is quite long.

Nevertheless, the SQE aims to prepare future solicitors for the practical demands of legal practice by assessing their ability to perform tasks that they will encounter in their future careers.

The SQE's Focus on Ethics

Another important aspect of the SQE is the role of legal ethics, as this is something that is central to professional conduct in the legal profession. Candidates are evaluated on their understanding and application of ethical rules which are central to legal practice.

This focus comes with the aim of producing solicitors who are not only knowledgeable and technically adept but also ethically aware and capable of upholding professional standards.

Preparing Effectively for the SQE

The most effective way to prepare for the SQE is by implementing structure and routine. This may include detailed study plans, practice exams and review materials. Regular practice over a long period of time is the best way to prepare for a practical assessment.

As the SQE is a competitive and challenging exam, success requires dedicated study time and rigorous preparation. Candidates must sustain motivation over the period of time required to prepare and take both the SQE1 and SQE2.

The best way to hone professional skills is to do practice exercises including role playing and mock scenarios. Regular practice of dealing with practical situations will allow candidates to develop and refine the essential skills which will be assessed. You may also wish to start your qualifying work experience before taking SQE2, as this will provide you with real-life practical experience.

There is also a wealth of resources available to aid with preparation. Here at AllAboutLaw we offer a wealth of legal resources, such as practice SQE exams and sample SQE course lectures. Other places which offer support include the University of Law, Barbri and your university’s careers advice team.

Conclusion: Rising to the Challenge

There is no doubt that there are many aspects of the SQE that contribute to its reputation for being a tough assessment. It is a comprehensive set of exams which focuses on not just legal knowledge, but also application, ethics and professional skills.

Whilst it may be a new challenge in the route to qualification, it is also an opportunity for personal and professional growth in your development post-university education.

With dedicated preparation and the right can-do mindset, there is no doubt that any candidate can rise to the challenge of the SQE and pave the way for a bright and successful legal career.

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