SQE2 Exemption for a Solicitor from Republic of Ireland
How to Qualify as a Solicitor in England and Wales?
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a comprehensive assessment required for all aspiring solicitors in England and Wales.
Hold a Degree
Obtain a degree in any subject, or possess a qualification or experience equivalent to a degree, such as a solicitor apprenticeship which combines on-the-job experience and training.
Complete Qualifying Work Experience
Fulfil two years of full-time (or equivalent) Qualifying Work Experience (QWE).
Pass the SQE Assessments
Successfully pass both assessments of the SQE:
SQE1: MCQs Format - Focuses on practical legal knowledge.
SQE2: Oral / Written - Emphasises practical legal skills.
Meet Character and Suitability Requirements
Ensure you meet the character and suitability standards set by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Book a FREE session with a qualified lawyer.
Don't worry you are not supposed to know everything from day one. Let us help you to escape from this maze that is SQE.
How can I apply for SQE2 Exemption?
To gain an SQE2 exemption, you must show that you have the skills and legal knowledge assessed and applied to the same standard as candidates taking the SQE2.
The SRA has a dedicated admission pathway for your qualification:
Republic of Ireland solicitors do not need to sit the SQE assessments.
For each step of your legal journey to become a qualified solicitor in England and Wales, FQPS Academy is here to make it easier and provide you with support and guidance. Talk to one of our Qualified Solicitors.
→ What to do before applying for your SQE 2 Exemption?
→ You cannot apply for the agreed exemption until this is done. Note that you must already be admitted; you cannot set a future admission date.
SQE assessment exemptions are only available to qualified lawyers. This includes individuals who hold a legal professional qualification allowing them to practise in the UK or an international jurisdiction.
You must have one or more of the following practising rights:
- Criminal litigation (including advising clients at the police station)
- Civil litigation (referred to as dispute resolution on the form)
- Property practice
- Wills and intestacy, probate administration and practice
- Business organisations rules and procedures
And at least two years' professional legal work experience (or equivalent). If you cannot confirm the above, you are not eligible to apply.
We will verify your qualification's practising rights when you apply for admission as a solicitor.
You will need to provide a certificate of good standing from your law society or bar association.
Please note that we cannot grant partial exemptions from any assessment.
Step by step video guide to create your mySRA account before applying for your SQE2 Exemption:
Step 1. After logging in click on "Manage my profile"
Step 2. Go to the "Jurisdictions" area, then click on "Add Jurisdiction"
Step 4. Now you are ready to start your SQE 2 Exemption application
Step 5. Choose the right application "Qualified lawyer exemption"
Do you need an SQE2 Exemption as a Solicitor from Republic of Ireland?
You have all the information you need to succeed in your SQE2 Exemption.
Find your answers here. If you don’t find it here, please contact us
No, SQE2 exemptions are only available to qualified lawyers. This means you must hold a legal professional qualification that allows you to practise in your jurisdiction. Non-qualified foreign lawyers must first become qualified in their jurisdiction before applying for any SQE exemptions.
These are the three exemptions you can apply for:
- SQE1 Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) 1
- SQE1 Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK) 2
- SQE2
We will not grant exemptions from part of an assessment.
You must show how your qualifications and/or experience are based on a legal system that is not substantially different from that in England and Wales. If you cannot show this, we will not be able to grant exemptions from the assessments.
Additionally your qualification (or related jurisdiction) must require you to comply with a code of conduct or ethical obligations that are similar to those in the SRA Code of Conduct.
If you are uncertain about the validity and sufficiency of your documents for an SQE2 exemption, do not worry. Each application is reviewed individually. Ensure that you provide all necessary evidence, such as your professional qualification certificates and references. If you have any questions, please contact the SRA directly for guidance—they are available to help you through the process.
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