SQE is the route to qualification for any aspiring solicitor in England and Wales, including foreign-qualified lawyers (who previously had to take the QLTS). The assessment is designed to make the process of dual-qualifying smooth.

As part of this, foreign-qualified lawyers are automatically exempt from the SQE’s qualifying work experience (QWE) requirement as the SRA recognises your experience and qualification in your own jurisdiction. At the same time, you might be eligible for an exemption from other parts of the SQE, depending on your legal background and experience.