Is SQE2 Harder Than the LPC?

As aspiring solicitors transition to the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) framework, a key question arises: is SQE2 harder than the LPC? With the introduction of the SQE reshaping the qualification journey, many candidates—particularly LPC graduates looking to qualify via SQE2—are keen to understand how these assessments compare in terms of difficulty, structure, and preparation.

In this blog, I’ll share my honest perspective on whether SQE2 is harder than the LPC, based on my experience taking SQE2 and my understanding of the LPC.

Understanding the SQE2 and LPC

What Is the LPC?

The Legal Practice Course (LPC) was the traditional route to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. It combines practical legal skills with subject-specific modules, enabling students to develop a deep understanding of legal practice.

Key features of the LPC:

• Assessment Style: Mix of open-book exams, coursework, and practical assessments.

• Specialized Modules: Students can choose electives to focus on specific areas of law.

• Duration: Typically takes 1–2 years, depending on full-time or part-time study.

Many LPC providers design tailored assessments, which often makes preparation more predictable for candidates.

What Is SQE2?

SQE2 is the second stage of the Solicitors Qualifying Examination. It focuses on assessing practical legal skills required for a ‘day one solicitor’ through 16 standardised assessments, covering the following tasks such as:

• Client interviewing and drafting attendance notes.

• Advocacy, legal writing, and research, and case and matter analysis

across subjects including dispute resolution, criminal litigation, wills, property and business.

Key features of SQE2:

• Closed-Book Format: Candidates rely entirely on memory and understanding.

• Intensive Schedule: All assessments occur over five consecutive days.

• Uniform Testing: Written and oral exams are standardised by Kaplan, the exam provider.

Key Differences Between SQE2 and LPC

1. Open-Book vs. Closed-Book Exams

• The LPC often allows open-book exams, where candidates can refer to notes or manuals, making it less reliant on memory.

• In contrast, SQE2 is entirely closed-book. This significantly raises the stakes, as you must demonstrate knowledge and skills without reference materials.

2. Breadth of Subjects

• The LPC spans a broader range of subjects taught over 1–2 years, allowing for more time to digest and apply the material.

• SQE2, however, condenses assessments into a short five-day window, with preparation typically lasting 3–6 months.

3. Testing Standards

• The LPC evaluates candidates at the level of a trainee solicitor, while SQE2 assesses you as a ‘day one solicitor,’ requiring a higher standard of competence.

4. Preparation Resources

• LPC exams are designed by the course providers, allowing tailored preparation with structured support.

• SQE2 exams are created by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and delivered by Kaplan, neither of which provide preparation materials. This leaves candidates reliant on third-party prep courses, which may not fully align with the actual exam.

Is SQE2 Harder Than the LPC?

Whether SQE2 is harder than the LPC depends largely on your strengths, learning preferences, and approach to preparation.

From my experience, SQE2 poses greater challenges for several reasons:

1. The closed-book format demands thorough understanding and recall under pressure.

2. The condensed assessment period intensifies the difficulty.

3. The lack of tailored prep resources makes preparation more unpredictable.

However, the LPC’s longer duration and diverse assessment styles may feel more demanding for those who prefer shorter, focused preparation.

Final Thoughts

Both the SQE2 and LPC present unique challenges. Choosing the “harder” option depends on your individual circumstances, including:

• Learning Style: Do you excel in open-book exams or thrive under closed-book, high-pressure settings?

• Time Commitment: Can you commit to 1–2 years for the LPC, or do you prefer the shorter preparation window for SQE2?

• Budget: The cost of preparation courses for either pathway can vary.

Ultimately, whether SQE2 is harder than the LPC is subjective. Aspiring solicitors should carefully consider their strengths, resources, and goals when navigating their qualification journey.

To learn more about the SQE2, visit the official SRA page here.

For concise SQE2 revision materials, be sure to visit my SQE2 resources page.