The College of Legal Practice: SQE Spotlight – March 2026

Posted on04 March 2026

SQE2 October 2025 results

Many congratulations to those that passed October's SQE2! Alongside the results the Solicitors Regulation Authority released the official SQE2 results for October 2025. Here are the headline outcomes:

Overall pass rate: 78% - up from 76% in July 2025, but down from 82% in April
First-time pass rate: 79%, remaining strong
Candidates graded: 1,342 (up from 959 in July)

A strong overall pass rate, alongside a larger sitting, reflects continued resilience among candidates sitting this rigorous practical assessment. Key differentials from the report:

Ethnicity: Pass rates ranged from 85% for White candidates to 63% for Black candidates
Age: Performance declined with age (87% for 16‑24 vs 40% for 45-54)
Degree classification: 89% pass rate for first‑class degree holders compared to 46% for 2:2s
First language: 81% (English as a first language) vs 70% (Other)
Qualifying Work Experience (QWE): 74% pass rate for those undertaking QWE vs 84% for those not
Qualified lawyers: 61% pass rate vs 80% for non-qualified candidates

The final two data points highlight a consistent theme: balancing demanding professional roles with SQE2 preparation carries risk. Candidates in full-time legal roles or already qualified in another jurisdiction should factor in additional preparation time and structured skills practice.

Given SQE2’s focus on applied legal skills under exam conditions, structured preparation, realistic mock assessments, and detailed supervisory feedback remain critical to success.

Additional SRA updates

The SRA has issued an update to its Reasonable Adjustments Policy, introducing refinements to how adjustments are considered and applied; please apply early
SQE: Four Years On report - a new SRA analysis of nearly four years of SQE data showing who is sitting SQE1/SQE2, overall pass rates to date, impacts of academic background, and insights on diversity and performance
A new report on SQE outcomes for neurodivergent candidates with reasonable adjustments shows candidates with reasonable adjustments tend to perform at similar or slightly higher levels than peers
Updated information on assessment delivery disruptions outlines contingency arrangements and candidate guidance
October 2027 SQE2 assessment dates have now been published

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