SQE 2024: exam dates and fees
The Solicitor’s Qualifying Examination (SQE) is made up of two external assessments, the SQE1 and SQE2. These exams run throughout the year, so we’re here to help you plan when you’re sitting the SQE.
The Solicitor’s Qualifying Examination (SQE) is made up of two external assessments, the SQE1 and SQE2. These exams run throughout the year, so we’re here to help you plan when you’re sitting the SQE.
Read on as we break down everything you need to know about the SQE exam dates. We’ll cover how to book the SQE exams, how much each exam costs, and when you can sit the SQE. We will also explore how you can plan your SQE preparation around the SQE exam dates.
If you’re not sure what the SQE is or would like to know more, read our SQE overview.
SQE exam booking
To book the SQE exams, you firstly need to register with the Solicitors Regulatory Authority (SRA). You will need to provide ID verification, such as a passport or driving licence.
The SRA recommends candidates book as soon as possible, as places are filled on a first come first served basis.
You may have an exemption from some parts of the SQE. For example, you may not need to sit the SQE1 exams if you have completed the LPC. You can find out if you qualify for any exemptions here.
How much do the SQE exams cost?
The SQE exam prices will increase from September 2024. The new SQE fees will be:
£1,888 for the SQE1
£2,902 for the SQE2
The prices for resitting the SQE1 will be £944 for failing FLK1 or FLK2, or £1,888 if you fail both parts, and £2,902 if you fail the SQE2.
SQE exam dates 2024
In 2024, you will be able to book the SQE1 exams in:
January 2024
15 or 16 January 2024 for FLK1
22 or 23 January for FLK2
July 2024
Week commencing 15 July 2024 for FLK1
Week commencing 22 July for FLK2
Book an SQE1 preparation course.
SQE2 exam dates
October 2023
23 and 24 October, or 25 and 26 October for the oral assessments
Between 30 October to 1 November for the written assessments
January 2024
Between 30 January and 1 February for the written assessments
6 and 7 February, or 8 and 9 February for the oral assessments
April 2024
Between 30 April and 2 May for the written assessments
7 and 8 May, 9 and 10 May, 14 and 15 May, or 16 and 17 May for the oral assessments
July 2024
31 July and 1 August, 6 and 7 August, 8 and 9 August for the oral assessments
Between 13 and 15 August for the written assessments
Book an SQE2 preparation course.
Find a full, up-to-date list of the SQE exam sittings on the SRA website.
Planning your preparation course around SQE exam dates
You will want to plan your SQE preparation so that you can sit the SQE exams soon after finishing each part of the preparation course. This will help maximise your chances of passing the SQE, while avoiding having to pay for resits.
Our preparation pathways are matched to the SQE exam dates:
On the SQE1&2 Diploma, you will complete each SQE exam after sitting the relevant preparation. This course runs from September, allowing you to sit the January SQE1 exams, and then the April SQE2 exams.
If you have opted for the LLM SQE1&2, you will then go on to complete the Essential for Practice module.
You can also sit SQE1 preparation and SQE2 training separately, with various start dates that correspond to the SQE exam sittings.
Final thoughts
With so many SQE1 and SQE2 exam dates running throughout the year, the SQE offers a flexible way to qualify as a solicitor. Once you have an idea of when you would like to qualify, plan to take a course that aligns with those dates. This will allow you to book the SQE exams as early as possible, so that you don’t miss out on a space.
Finally, when applying for an SQE preparation course, explore scholarship and funding options to help make accessing your dream career a reality.
