SQE Equivalent UK Qualifications
Share
To meet the educational requirements for solicitor qualification set by the SRA, you can present an equivalent UK qualification instead of a traditional degree. The following qualifications are recognised as equivalent:
An Accredited Qualification at Level 6 (or Above)
This refers to qualifications that meet level 6 standards under the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) in the UK. These qualifications must be awarded by a recognised degree-awarding body and can include non-degree qualifications, such as advanced diplomas.
A Regulated Qualification at Level 6 (or Above)
Qualifications regulated under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland at level 6 or above are accepted. For example, CILEx Level 6 qualifications (designed for Chartered Legal Executives) fall into this category.
An Apprenticeship at Level 6 or Above
Apprenticeships approved by the government departments of England, Wales, or Northern Ireland at level 6 or higher are recognised. These apprenticeships combine academic study with practical workplace learning, meeting the standard required for professional entry.
A Qualification or Apprenticeship at Level 9 or Above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)
In Scotland, qualifications or apprenticeships must meet level 9 or higher standards on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). They must be accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) or awarded by a recognised Scottish degree-awarding body.
These pathways allow candidates with diverse educational and professional training backgrounds to qualify for the SQE route, ensuring accessibility while maintaining rigorous professional standards.
An Accredited Qualification at Level 6 (or Above)
This refers to qualifications that meet level 6 standards under the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications (FHEQ) in the UK. These qualifications must be awarded by a recognised degree-awarding body and can include non-degree qualifications, such as advanced diplomas.
A Regulated Qualification at Level 6 (or Above)
Qualifications regulated under the Regulated Qualifications Framework (RQF) for England, Wales, and Northern Ireland at level 6 or above are accepted. For example, CILEx Level 6 qualifications (designed for Chartered Legal Executives) fall into this category.
An Apprenticeship at Level 6 or Above
Apprenticeships approved by the government departments of England, Wales, or Northern Ireland at level 6 or higher are recognised. These apprenticeships combine academic study with practical workplace learning, meeting the standard required for professional entry.
A Qualification or Apprenticeship at Level 9 or Above on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF)
In Scotland, qualifications or apprenticeships must meet level 9 or higher standards on the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework (SCQF). They must be accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) or awarded by a recognised Scottish degree-awarding body.
These pathways allow candidates with diverse educational and professional training backgrounds to qualify for the SQE route, ensuring accessibility while maintaining rigorous professional standards.
