The new Solicitors Qualifying Exam has transformed entry into the profession. Whether you are transitioning from academic study under the OCR law specification, revising from BA LLB 1st semester question papers, or researching how much is the SQE1, preparation now demands a more strategic approach.

This guide explains the structure, costs, difficulty level and how to build effective practice habits.

From Academic Law to the Law of the United Kingdom in Practice

University study focuses on understanding the law of the United Kingdom in theory constitutional principles, contract formation, criminal liability, equity and trusts. However, the SQE tests applied knowledge.

Unlike essay-based exams, SRA SQE1 uses single best answer questions (SBAQs). You must apply legal principles to realistic client scenarios.

This shift from academic reasoning to professional judgement is where many candidates struggle.

How Much Is the SQE1 and What Are the SQE Exam Fees?

One of the most searched questions is: how much is the SQE1?

Candidates must budget for:

• Official SQE exam fees
• Preparation materials
• Mock platforms
• Study leave time

Given the financial investment, relying solely on passive reading of BPP SQE books or general notes is risky. Strategic preparation is essential.

SQE 1 Dates and Structured Planning

Knowing upcoming SQE 1 date allows you to reverse-plan your preparation. Ideally:

• Begin core revision 4–6 months before the exam
• Introduce weekly SQE FLK 1 practice questions early
• Complete full mock simulations at least 6–8 weeks before the exam

Exam preparation is a marathon, not a last-minute sprint.

Understanding SQE Difficulty

Many candidates ask about SQE difficulty.

The exam is challenging because it requires:

• Breadth across multiple subjects
• Precision in identifying the single best answer
• Speed under time pressure
• Stamina across long testing sessions

It is not conceptually harder than university law but it is operationally more demanding.

Think of it as professional application training rather than academic debate.

Building Effective Practice Habits

To succeed, candidates must move beyond passive reading and focus on structured test training.

Strong preparation includes:

• Daily SBAQ practice questions
• Weekly SQE1 mock questions under timed conditions
• Reviewing sample test questions to understand format
• Completing structured paper practice to simulate exam pressure

Platforms sometimes described as “practice test geeks” communities can provide peer discussion, but official-style question banks remain the most reliable resource.

Comparing Academic Exams and Professional Testing

If you are transitioning from A-levels under the OCR law specification or early university study using BA LLB 1st semester question papers, remember:

• Academic exams test argument and essay structure.
• SQE1 tests applied legal judgement.

This is similar to the shift seen in professional language assessments such as the OET listening test where practical comprehension is more important than theoretical knowledge.

Preparing for SQE2 Early

While this article focuses on SQE1, it is wise to review SQE 2 sample questions early. SQE2 assesses:

• Advocacy
• Legal drafting
• Client interviewing
• Case analysis

Strong foundations in SQE1 will directly support these skills later.

Using Structured Resources Wisely

Materials such as BPP SQE books, structured revision guides, and focused question banks should be used actively:

• Summarise key principles
• Immediately apply them to questions
• Track weak areas
• Repeat until accuracy improves

Consider creating your own “law lab” environment a structured study routine where revision and question practice are integrated daily.

The new Solicitors Qualifying Exam rewards structured preparation, not last-minute cramming.

If you want to succeed:

• Plan around official SQE 1 date
• Understand SQE exam fees and treat preparation as an investment
• Practise SBAQ questions consistently
• Complete timed mock exams
• Analyse mistakes rigorously

SQE difficulty is manageable when preparation is deliberate.

The difference between passing and excelling lies in disciplined practice, structured review and sustained performance training.