For internationally-qualified lawyers seeking admission to practise in England and Wales, the SQE offers a clear pathway. This guide addresses the specific challenges international candidates face and how to overcome them.
The SQE Route for International Lawyers
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) replaced the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC) as the route to admission as a solicitor of England and Wales. This change opened the qualification route to a wider international audience. Lawyers qualified in other jurisdictions — whether in South Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, the Americas, or elsewhere — can now qualify as English solicitors by passing SQE1 and SQE2 and completing the required qualifying work experience.
Specific Challenges for International Candidates
- Unfamiliarity with English common law methodology and legal reasoning style
- Different approaches to statutory interpretation in the English legal system
- New practice areas — English Land Law and Trusts are particularly distinctive
- The SBA question format — different from bar exams in many other jurisdictions
- SQE2 practical skills — client interviewing and oral advocacy styles differ
- Qualifying Work Experience requirements — finding a placement
How Ereventis Supports International Candidates
Ereventis has supported international candidates through the SQE — and before that, the QLTS — since 2014. Our tutors understand the specific gaps international candidates typically face and structure preparation accordingly. We offer one-to-one support sessions, targeted modules on English legal method, and practice materials specifically designed for candidates coming from non-common-law backgrounds. Many of our international graduates pass on their first attempt — contact us to discuss a personalised preparation plan.
Ereventis provides independent country expert reports, SQE preparation courses, and certified translation services to legal professionals across the UK.