SQE1

At PrepLaw, we specialise in providing targeted preparation for the SQE1 exam through expertly designed, exam-style practice. Our services focus exclusively on helping aspiring solicitors master the Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) assessments with confidence. Whether you’re starting from scratch or fine-tuning your revision, PrepLaw offers flexible, subscription-based access to realistic mock exams, intelligent feedback tools, and performance tracking—everything you need to prepare effectively and pass with certainty.

SQE

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the centralised route to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales, introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA). It replaces the traditional LPC and GDL pathways with a two-stage assessment: SQE1 tests legal knowledge through multiple-choice questions covering Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK), while SQE2 assesses practical legal skills through written and oral tasks. To qualify, candidates must pass both exams, hold a degree or equivalent, complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE), and satisfy the SRA’s character and suitability requirements.

Types of SQE Assessments

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is divided into two parts:

• SQE1 – Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK)
• SQE2 – Practical Legal Skills Assessment

Each stage is designed to test different competencies required for qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales.

SQE1 Exam Preparation

The First Step Towards Qualification

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the centralised assessment route for becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. Introduced by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), it replaces the LPC and GDL with a two-stage process. SQE1 is the first stage, focusing on Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) through rigorous multiple-choice assessments.

At PrepLaw, we provide structured, flexible, and affordable preparation tailored to help candidates excel in SQE1 and progress with confidence toward full qualification.

SQE1 Exam Preparation

Overview of the SQE1 Assessment

SQE1 evaluates your ability to apply core legal knowledge in practical, client-focused scenarios. The assessment is delivered through Single Best Answer (SBA) multiple-choice questions across two papers: FLK1 and FLK2. Each paper is taken on a separate day and includes 180 questions based on realistic legal scenarios.

Functioning Legal Knowledge: FLK1 and FLK2

FLK1 Subjects

• Business Law and Practice
• Contract Law
• Tort Law
• Dispute Resolution (Civil Litigation)
• Legal Services

FLK2 Subjects

• Property Law and Practice
• Wills and the Administration of Estates
• Land Law
• Trusts
• Criminal Law and Practice
• Solicitors’ Accounts

Each paper tests your legal reasoning and judgment under timed conditions, simulating the problem-solving required in real legal practice.

Understanding the Question Format

All questions in SQE1 are Single Best Answer (SBA) format. You’ll be presented with a legal scenario and five possible options—only one is the most appropriate response. This format is designed to test not just knowledge, but your ability to make effective legal decisions based on given facts.

Entry Criteria for SQE1

The SQE framework is open and inclusive. Candidates do not need a law degree to take SQE1. To begin the qualification process, you must:

• Hold a degree or equivalent qualification (in any subject)
• Prepare through formal study, self-directed learning, or both

Completion of SQE1 is a key milestone toward qualification, followed by SQE2 and Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).

Pathway After Completing SQE1

Once you pass SQE1, you will be eligible to progress to:

• SQE2, which tests practical legal skills such as client interviewing, advocacy, legal writing, drafting, and research.
• Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) – Two years’ legal work in up to four organisations.
• Character and Suitability Assessment – Final approval by the SRA to practise as a solicitor.

Anyone aiming to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales can sit the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), regardless of their academic or professional background. To become fully qualified, candidates must meet four requirements set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA):

SQE1 Preparation with PrepLaw

At PrepLaw, we’ve developed an intuitive, exam-focused platform to help you succeed in SQE1. Whether you’re studying full-time or part-time, our tools adapt to your goals and schedule.

Features of Our Learning Platform

• Comprehensive Question Bank
  Thousands of MCQs aligned with SRA standards, reflecting the style and difficulty of real exam questions.
• Full-Length Timed Mocks
  Simulate exam-day conditions and develop the time management skills required to excel.
• Detailed Answer Explanations
  Every question includes a breakdown of why the correct answer is right—improving both knowledge and exam technique.
• Analytics and Progress Tracking
  Visual dashboards to identify weak areas, monitor improvement, and plan revision efficiently.
• Flexible Monthly Access
  Study on your own terms with no long-term contracts. Subscribe or cancel anytime.
• Mobile-Optimised Interface
  Prepare on the go access your account from any device, wherever you are.

Why Choose PrepLaw

We understand what it takes to pass the SQE1. Our content is regularly updated, our format mirrors the exam, and our platform is designed for students who want to study smart, not just hard.

• Designed by legal professionals
• Aligned with latest SRA specifications
• Easy-to-use interface
• Ideal for independent learners and supplementary revision