Training Contract Guide 2026
Application guides for top UK law firms - plus everything TC holders need to know about the SQE.
Already have your TC? Jump straight to SQE preparation guides.
Find your firm
Application guides, SQE funding details, and insider tips for 31 top UK law firms.
Clifford Chance
Magic CircleLinklaters
Magic CircleFreshfields
Magic CircleHogan Lovells
InternationalAshurst
Silver CircleAllen & Overy
Magic CircleSlaughter and May
Magic CircleHerbert Smith Freehills
Silver CircleMacfarlanes
Silver CircleTravers Smith
Silver CircleSimmons & Simmons
Silver CircleKirkland & Ellis
US FirmLatham & Watkins
US FirmSkadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom
US FirmWeil, Gotshal & Manges
US FirmWhite & Case
InternationalGibson, Dunn & Crutcher
US FirmNorton Rose Fulbright
InternationalDLA Piper
InternationalBaker McKenzie
InternationalEversheds Sutherland
InternationalPinsent Masons
InternationalCMS
InternationalClyde & Co
InternationalTaylor Wessing
InternationalAddleshaw Goddard
RegionalShoosmiths
RegionalIrwin Mitchell
RegionalBurges Salmon
RegionalWomble Bond Dickinson
RegionalGowling WLG
InternationalCovering 31 firms - more being added. Suggest a firm →
The full qualification journey
A training contract gets you QWE - but you still need to pass the SQE to qualify. SQE explained →
SQE1 and SQE2 steps link to live pass rate data. Full SQE explained →
What SQE means if you have a training contract
Having a training contract is a significant advantage - but it doesn't replace the SQE exams. To qualify as a solicitor, you still need to pass both SQE1 (the 360-question multiple-choice assessment covering Functioning Legal Knowledge) and SQE2 (the 16 practical skills assessments covering advocacy, drafting, client interviewing, and research).
The good news: your training contract almost certainly satisfies the qualifying work experience (QWE) requirement. The two years of QWE needed for admission to the roll are typically completed in full through a standard two-year TC.
Many firms also sponsor SQE preparation courses and cover exam fees - though the extent of coverage varies significantly between firms. Understanding exactly what your firm covers before you start is essential, both for budgeting and for planning your study approach.
What your firm typically covers
Coverage varies by firm size and policy - use this as a starting point for your own contract review.
| Item | Typical Coverage |
|---|---|
| SQE1 prep course | Usually covered by firm |
| SQE2 prep course | Usually covered by firm |
| SQE1 exam fee (£1,934) | Usually covered by firm |
| SQE2 exam fee (£2,974) | Usually covered by firm |
| Resit fees | Varies by firm |
| Living costs during study periods | Rarely covered |
Always check your training contract agreement - coverage varies significantly between firms. Magic Circle and Silver Circle firms typically cover all costs; smaller firms may offer partial support or none at all.
SQE exam prep with a training contract
Balancing work and study
Most firms offer dedicated study leave periods before SQE sittings - typically 4–8 weeks for SQE1 and 2–4 weeks for SQE2. Confirm your firm's policy early and treat study leave as seriously as a client deadline. The SQE1 pass rate is 53% (January 2026), so even with firm-provided preparation, consistent revision matters.
Using firm-provided resources
Most large firms use BPP or University of Law for SQE preparation. Both have strong track records - check SQE pass rates by provider to see how they compare. Attend all sessions, use practice question banks, and form study groups with fellow trainees sitting the same sitting.
Plan around exam dates
SQE1 runs twice a year (January and July); SQE2 runs quarterly. Your firm will typically register you for a specific sitting, but knowing the upcoming SQE exam dates helps you plan study leave requests and manage seat rotations around key revision periods.
Track your QWE
Even with a training contract, you still need to log and evidence your qualifying work experience against the SRA's competency framework. Your supervisor must confirm you've demonstrated the required competencies - and you'll need records to support that.
Our free QWE tracker is designed exactly for this. Log competencies as you go, generate a record for your supervisor to sign off, and keep everything organised for your SRA application.
Open QWE Tracker →Frequently asked questions
Do I still need to pass SQE if I have a training contract?
Yes. SQE1 and SQE2 are required for all aspiring solicitors in England and Wales, regardless of whether you hold a training contract. The SRA mandates both exams as part of the qualification route. Your training contract satisfies the qualifying work experience (QWE) requirement, but the exams must be passed separately.
What if I fail SQE with a training contract?
You can resit SQE1 and SQE2 - there's no cap on the number of attempts. Resit fees are the same as initial fees (£1,934 for SQE1, £2,974 for SQE2). However, firm policies on resit support vary significantly. Some firms cover one resit; others don't. Check your training contract agreement and speak to your HR team early - ideally before you sit the exam - so you understand your position.
Can I use my training contract as QWE?
Yes. A qualifying training contract counts as qualifying work experience (QWE) under the SRA's framework, provided it is with a qualifying employer. Your supervisor will need to confirm your competency across the required areas. The two years of QWE required for qualification are typically satisfied in full by a standard two-year training contract.
What if my firm doesn't cover SQE costs?
If your firm doesn't sponsor your SQE costs, you're not out of options. Scholarships, employer loans, and payment plans are available. View SQE funding options.
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