What Can it Cost to Qualify as a Solicitor?

Becoming a solicitor involves a number of different routes, and the total cost can vary widely depending on your path. Whether you’re taking the academic university route, entering through an apprenticeship, or transitioning from another career, this guide outlines the common costs.

University Education

For most aspiring solicitors, the journey begins with an undergraduate degree. In England and Wales, this typically means a three-year course:

• Tuition fees:- Usually £9,250 per year, or around £27,750 in total
• Living expenses:- Accommodation, travel, and day-to-day costs can significantly increase your overall spend

In Scotland, eligible Scottish students can often study for free, although Scottish law differs from English law and may not align with solicitor qualifications in England and Wales.

Law Conversion (Non-Law Graduates)

If your degree isn’t in law, you’ll likely need a law conversion course:

• Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) or Common Professional Examination (CPE)
• Costs range from £8,000 to £12,000, depending on provider and location
• Often taken full-time over one year, or part-time alongside work

*This route is now mostly used by those still qualifying under the LPC system.

Legal Practice Course (LPC) – Transitional Route Only

While the LPC is being phased out, it’s still available for those who began their legal studies before September 2021.

Typical costs can range from £9,000-£17,000+.

Some firms sponsor LPC fees or combine study with in-house legal training. However, most institutions are now moving entirely to SQE preparation.

SQE (Solicitors Qualifying Examination)

The SQE is the current standard route to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales.

SQE Exam Fees (2025)

• SQE1: £1,888
• SQE2: £2,902

Optional Prep Courses

• Providers charge between £3,000 and £8,000+ for prep courses
• Prices vary based on course length, depth, and support offered

Prospective students should consult individual providers for the most up-to-date and precise pricing.

Some law firms may cover preparation fees as part of graduate schemes or training packages.

Qualifying Work Experience (QWE)

To qualify, you must complete two years of QWE (full-time equivalent):

• Can be paid or unpaid
• Must be signed off by a solicitor or Compliance Officer for Legal Practice (COLP)
• Can be gained in up to four different organisations
• Can be completed before, during, or after taking the SQE exams

Alternative Routes

Solicitor Apprenticeships

• Designed for school leavers or non-graduates
• Combines academic study with paid legal work
• Typically lasts six years and leads to an LLB and SQE qualification
• Fully funded through employer and government support

CILEx (Chartered Legal Executive Route)

• A more flexible, often lower-cost route into legal practice
• Many CILEx Level 6 qualification holders are now eligible to transition to SQE
• Often employer-funded or supported by part-time study

Summary of Potential Costs

Depending on your route, you might expect to pay:

• Undergraduate degree:- £27,000+ tuition (plus living costs)
• Law conversion (if needed): £8,000–£12,000
• SQE prep + exam fees: £8,000–£13,000

Estimated total:- £45,000 to £60,000+ for a university-based route

Apprenticeship and CILEx pathways can significantly reduce or eliminate tuition costs, especially when employer-funded.

Closing Thoughts

The cost of becoming a solicitor in the UK can be significant but the pathway is now more flexible and accessible than ever. With options like apprenticeships, law firm sponsorship, and part-time learning, there are ways to manage costs and still reach your goal.

If you’re just getting started, it’s worth comparing your options early, speaking to training providers, and exploring funding opportunities before committing to a route.