SQE Funding Options

Explore ways to finance your solicitor qualification journey

Understanding SQE Costs

The total cost of qualifying as a solicitor through the SQE route can vary significantly depending on your preparation method, living costs, and whether you're working while studying. Use our SQE calculators to model your total spend. Here's a breakdown of typical expenses:

£7,000-£8,000

Exam Fees

  • • SQE1: ~£3,000-£4,000
  • • SQE2: ~£4,000-£5,000
  • • Check SRA website for current fees
£2,000-£15,000

Preparation Courses

  • • Online courses: £2,000-£5,000
  • • Classroom courses: £8,000-£15,000
  • • Self-study materials: £500-£2,000
Variable

Living Costs

  • • Study duration (6-18 months typical)
  • • Location (London costs 30-50% more)
  • • Full-time vs part-time study

Funding Options

Postgraduate Student Loans

If you're taking an SQE preparation course as part of a postgraduate program, you may be eligible for a Postgraduate Loan.

Pros:

  • • Up to £12,000+ available (check current limits)
  • • Repayment only when earning above threshold
  • • Government-backed low interest
  • • No credit check required

Cons:

  • • Only available for formal courses
  • • May not cover full costs
  • • Long-term repayment commitment

Career Development Loans

Bank loans specifically designed for vocational training and professional development.

Details:

  • • Borrow £300 to £10,000
  • • Fixed interest rates
  • • Flexible repayment terms
  • • Government pays interest during study

Eligibility:

  • • UK resident for 3+ years
  • • Course must be vocational
  • • Maximum 2 years duration

Employer Sponsorship

Many law firms offer full or partial sponsorship for SQE preparation, especially if you're employed as a paralegal or trainee.

Typical Packages:

  • • Full course fees paid
  • • Exam fees covered
  • • Study leave provided
  • • Salary during preparation

Considerations:

  • • May require commitment period
  • • Highly competitive positions
  • • Usually for existing employees

Scholarships & Bursaries

Various organizations offer financial support for aspiring solicitors from underrepresented backgrounds or with financial need.

Sources:

  • • Law Society Diversity Access Scheme
  • • Individual law firms (e.g., Clifford Chance, Linklaters)
  • • Course providers (BPP, ULaw, BARBRI)
  • • Charitable trusts and foundations
  • • Professional associations

Personal Savings & Part-Time Work

Many candidates self-fund their SQE preparation through savings or by working part-time during their studies.

Strategies:

  • • Work as a paralegal while studying
  • • Spread studies over longer period
  • • Choose more affordable prep options
  • • Budget carefully during preparation

Benefits:

  • • No debt burden
  • • Gain QWE while working
  • • More flexibility in timing
  • • Build professional network

Budgeting Tips

Reduce Course Costs

  • • Compare providers carefully - prices range from £2,500 to £18,000+
  • • Look for early bird discounts
  • • Consider online-only courses
  • • Use free study resources
  • • Join study groups to share materials

Manage Living Costs

  • • Live with family if possible
  • • Choose cheaper accommodation
  • • Work part-time for income
  • • Apply for council tax exemptions
  • • Take advantage of student discounts

Plan Your Timeline

  • • Spread costs over longer period
  • • Save before starting preparation
  • • Consider when to take exams
  • • Budget for retakes if needed
  • • Plan for post-qualification job search

Maximize Income

  • • Negotiate salary increases
  • • Take on freelance legal work
  • • Apply for grants and awards
  • • Seek employer contribution
  • • Claim tax relief on course fees

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get a student loan for the SQE?

If you're studying an SQE preparation course as part of a postgraduate qualification, you may be eligible for a Postgraduate Loan of up to £12,167 (2024/25). However, standalone SQE preparation courses that aren't part of a formal qualification typically don't qualify for student loans.

Do law firms sponsor SQE training?

Yes, many law firms offer SQE sponsorship as part of their training contract packages. This typically includes full payment of exam fees, preparation course costs, and a salary during your training period. Competition for these positions is high, so early applications are recommended.

Are there scholarships available for the SQE?

Yes, various scholarships are available from universities, law schools, professional bodies (like the Law Society), and diversity organisations. The Solicitors Regulation Authority maintains a list of funding opportunities. Awards typically range from £1,000 to full course fee coverage.

How much should I budget for the SQE in total?

Total costs typically range from £10,000 to £25,000+ depending on your preparation method. This includes exam fees (£7,000-£8,000), preparation courses (£2,000-£15,000), and living expenses during study. Self-study is cheapest but requires significant self-discipline.

Can I claim tax relief on SQE costs?

If you're already working in a legal role and the SQE is required to update or maintain your existing skills, you may be able to claim tax relief on course fees and exam costs. However, if it's training for a new profession, it typically doesn't qualify. Consult HMRC guidance or a tax adviser for your specific situation.

Is the SQE cheaper than the old LPC route?

The SQE exam fees alone (around £7,000-£8,000) are significantly cheaper than the LPC (which cost £12,000-£18,000). However, when you add preparation courses, total costs can be similar. The main advantage is flexibility - you can self-study or choose cheaper prep courses if needed.

Can I work while studying for the SQE?

Yes, many candidates work part-time or full-time while studying for the SQE. Paralegal roles are particularly popular as they provide both income and qualifying work experience (QWE). This approach spreads the financial burden but extends your qualification timeline.

New to SQE?

Understand what the SQE involves, exam structure, and the full qualification pathway before planning your funding.

Learn About SQE

Track Your Progress

Use our free digital tracker to monitor your 2 years of Qualifying Work Experience alongside your studies.

Open QWE Tracker

Calculate Your Funding Needs

Use our interactive calculators to estimate total costs, loan repayments, and return on investment.

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