SQE or LPC? A Comprehensive Breakdown

Mar 25, 2025

Written By Nandini Jadeja

The introduction of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) has fundamentally changed the pathway to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. While the Legal Practice Course (LPC) was once the standard qualification route, the SQE has now replaced it for most aspiring solicitors. This article will discuss the main differences between the two courses, their benefits, and why, as of 2025, almost all future solicitors should be choosing the SQE over the LPC.

The SQE: The new standard route to qualification

The SQE is the standardised qualification route for solicitors in England and Wales, overseen by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).

The SQE is split into two sections:

- SQE1: Assesses legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions.

- SQE2: Assesses practical legal skills through oral and written assessments.

Why choose the SQE?

- Greater flexibility: The SQE allows for a variety of study options, from self-study to structured courses integrated with an LLM.

- Work experience flexibility: The required two years of qualifying work experience (QWE) can be gained in multiple ways, including working as a paralegal or pro bono work, such as volunteering in a legal advice clinic or Citizens Advice Bureau.

- It is significantly easier to acquire Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) than an LPC training contract.

The LPC: the traditional route that is being phased out

The LPC has been the traditional route to solicitor qualification, but it is only available to students who began their law journey (law degree or conversion course) before September 2021.

Although the SRA has confirmed that eligible candidates can qualify via the LPC until 2032, the reality is that some leading education providers have already stopped offering it and many more are expected to discontinue their courses from September 2025.

Why almost nobody should choose the LPC in 2025

The reality is that very few students should still be considering the LPC.

Here’s why:

- LPC training contracts are disappearing: Almost all law firms have switched to SQE-based training routes, meaning that finding an LPC training contract is now extremely difficult.

- LPC graduates may still need to take SQE2: If an LPC graduate cannot secure an LPC training contract, they will have to take SQE2 anyway to qualify as a solicitor, adding extra costs and time to their qualification journey.

- SQE2 failure rates are higher for LPC graduates: Since SQE2 heavily relies on legal knowledge tested in SQE1, many LPC graduates who are exempt from SQE1 struggle to pass SQE2, as they are less familiar with the required syllabus.

Who might still consider the LPC?

There are only two groups of students for whom the LPC might still be the better choice:

- Students with a guaranteed LPC training contract: If a student already has an LPC training contract secured, the LPC may still be a viable route.

- Certain neurodiverse students: Some individuals who find multiple-choice questions particularly challenging due to the structure of SQE1 assessments may prefer the LPC route.

Making your decision

For students starting their qualification journey in 2025 or later, the SQE is now the dominant and most practical route. Unless you have a guaranteed LPC training contract or a specific learning need that makes the LPC a better fit, the SQE is the best all round option in terms of flexibility and career prospects.

Before making a final decision, consider your learning preferences, financial situation, and career goals. Seek advice from legal professionals, tutors, and law firms to ensure you make the best choice for your future.

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