SQE Exam Guide — Everything You Need to Know About SQE1 and SQE2
A complete guide to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination format, scoring, registration, and preparation strategies. Know exactly what to expect on exam day.
SQE1 Exam Format in Detail
SQE1 is split into two papers — FLK1 and FLK2 — each consisting of 90 single best answer multiple-choice questions. You have 2 hours and 33 minutes per paper.
FLK1 — Functioning Legal Knowledge 1
- Business Law and Practice
- Dispute Resolution
- Contract Law
- Tort Law
- Legal System of England and Wales
- Constitutional and Administrative Law
- EU Law and Legal Services
FLK2 — Functioning Legal Knowledge 2
- Property Practice
- Wills and Administration of Estates
- Solicitors Accounts
- Land Law
- Trusts
- Criminal Law and Practice
Exam Day Tips
- Read each question stem carefully before the options
- Eliminate obviously wrong answers first
- Flag uncertain questions and return to them
- Pace yourself — roughly 1.7 minutes per question
- Never leave a question unanswered
SQE Exam Registration and Costs
The SQE is administered by Kaplan on behalf of the SRA. To register, you must create an account on the SRA website and then book through Kaplan's portal. Key costs to budget for:
SQE1 Fees
- SQE1 assessment fee: £1,798
- Each FLK paper booked separately
- Retake fee applies per paper
SQE2 Fees
- SQE2 assessment fee: £2,422
- Covers all five skill stations
- Individual station retakes available
Preparation Costs
- Full prep courses: £3,000–£12,000
- Jureo subscription from £69/month
- Mock exams available separately
How to Prepare for the SQE Exam
Know the Syllabus
Download the SRA's SQE1 assessment specification. Every topic that can be tested is listed — don't study beyond it.
Build Your Knowledge Base
Use structured revision materials covering all 13 SQE1 subjects. Jureo's flashcard system covers the full syllabus.
Practice MCQs Daily
SQE1 is 100% MCQ. The more practice questions you complete, the more familiar you become with the question style and legal reasoning required.
Sit Full Mock Exams
In the final 4–6 weeks, sit full 90-question timed mock exams to build exam stamina and identify remaining weak spots.
Prepare Smarter with Jureo
Full SQE1 question bank, mock exams, and performance analytics — everything you need to pass.
View PackagesFrequently Asked Questions About the SQE Exam
What is the SQE exam format?
SQE1 consists of two separate exams (FLK1 and FLK2), each containing 90 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 2 hours 33 minutes. All questions are single best answer format. SQE2 is a practical skills assessment with five stations covering client interviewing, advocacy, case and matter analysis, legal research, and legal writing and drafting.
How is the SQE exam scored?
SQE1 uses a criterion-referenced pass mark set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) based on the standard expected of a newly qualified solicitor. There is no fixed percentage pass mark — it varies slightly between sittings. Historically, candidates need to answer approximately 56–65% of questions correctly to pass.
How often can you sit the SQE exam?
SQE1 is offered twice a year, typically in January and November. SQE2 is also offered twice a year. There is no limit on the number of attempts, but you must pass both within three years of passing the first assessment.
What is the best way to prepare for the SQE exam?
The most effective SQE preparation combines structured knowledge review (flashcards, revision notes), regular practice MCQs with detailed explanations, full mock exams under timed conditions, and performance analysis to target weak subjects. Starting at least 6 months before your exam date is recommended.
What happens on the day of the SQE exam?
SQE1 is a computer-based exam held at Pearson VUE test centres. You'll need valid photo ID. The exam interface presents one question at a time and allows you to flag questions for review. You cannot access notes or materials. Results are typically released 8–10 weeks after the exam date.
Ready to Pass the SQE?
Start practising with Jureo's full SQE1 question bank and mock exams today.