Degree or equivalent

Updated 25 October 2023

Degree requirements

To become a solicitor, you need a degree in any subject, or an equivalent qualifications or experience. What counts as a degree:

• A UK degree awarded at level 6 (or above) by a recognised degree-awarding body. This is usually an undergraduate degree but can also be diplomas or other qualifications.
• An equivalent UK qualification. These are:
  • An accredited qualification at level 6 (or above) of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, awarded by recognised degree-awarding body
  • A regulated qualification at level 6 (or above) of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (England, Wales and Northern Ireland). This includes CILEx level 6 qualifications
  • An apprenticeship at level 6 or above, approved by the government departments of England, Wales or Northern Ireland
  • A qualification or apprenticeship at level 9 or above of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework, accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) or awarded by a Scottish degree awarding body
• An overseas qualification:
  • Shown to be equivalent to either a UK degree/equivalent qualification or
  • An accredited qualification at level 6 (or above) of the European Qualifications Framework
  • We will check that you hold a degree or equivalent level 6 qualification when you apply for admission
• Work experience equivalent to a UK degree/equivalent qualification (each equivalent application will be considered on a case by case basis). This would be a sufficient standard of general education and learning (level 3 equivalent of the Regulated Qualifications Framework) and considerable work-based learning.