What Percentage of People Pass the SQE 2 Exam?
The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is a key milestone for aspiring solicitors in England and Wales. It’s split into two stages—SQE1 and SQE2. After SQE1 is done and dusted, many candidates think that the hardest part is done and the “skills-based” SQE2 can’t be too bad, right? Generally, it is true that the pass rate for the SQE2 is higher, but then you have to remember that the pool of candidates is smaller and has already gone through the massive hurdle of SQE1. If you are asking yourself the question: “What Percentage of People Pass the SQE 2 Exam?” In this post, I’ll walk you through the SQE2 pass rate stats and share some down-to-earth tips from my own experience that helped me pass SQE2.
Understanding the SQE2 Exam
Just as refresher,
The SQE2 exam tests you on:
• Advocacy
• Client interviewing and attendance note writing
• Legal writing
• Legal drafting
• Legal research
• Case and matter analysis
These are assessed across key practice areas, including criminal litigation, dispute resolution, business, property, and wills.
Current Pass Rates for SQE2
So, what percentage of people pass the SQE 2 exam these days? Here are the latest SQE2 pass rate figures from 2024:
January 2024 SQE2
• First-Time Candidates: 833
• First-Time Pass Rate: 76%
• Overall Pass Rate (with retakes): 73%
April 2024 SQE2
• First-Time Candidates: 2,097
• First-Time Pass Rate: 81%
• Overall Pass Rate (with retakes): 79%
July 2024 SQE2
• First-Time Candidates: 860
• First-Time Pass Rate: 77%
• Overall Pass Rate (with retakes): 74%
(Source: SRA news).
As you can see, the SQE2 pass rate for first-timers ranges from around 76% to 81%, while overall pass rates settle between 73% and 79%. This shows a majority are passing on their first go, but there’s still a decent number who need to retake.
My Strategies for Passing SQE2
I remember feeling pretty anxious when I started preparing for SQE2. Luckily, I picked up some helpful strategies that made all the difference:
1. Structured Study Plan
• I broke down each SQE2 subject into smaller portions.
• I assigned specific study times for each subject over a few weeks.
• This helped me avoid last-minute cramming and gave me a clear roadmap.
2. Active Recall Revision
• Active recall was a total game-changer for me.
• I’d read through my notes, talk myself through the material, then check how much I remembered.
• This technique helped the info stick and pinpointed areas I needed to revisit.
3. Practice, Practice, Practice
• Mock exams were my go-to for getting used to the exam format.
• I simulated test conditions—timed myself, and completed each question in one sitting.
• The more I practiced, the more comfortable I felt with the skills, pressure and pace.
4. Positive Mindset
• It’s normal to feel overwhelmed sometimes, especially when there’s so much at stake.
• Taking regular breaks, doing quick workouts, or going for a walk kept my stress in check.
• Celebrating small wins—like finally nailing a drafting exercise—kept me motivated.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been curious about what percentage of people pass the SQE 2 exam, the most recent stats show first-time pass rates between 76% and 81%. That’s in principle good news for anyone about to tackle SQE2—but remember, the pool of people is smaller and the SQE2 is still a super challenging exam. Your own preparation, focus, and confidence make all the difference.
By sticking to a clear plan, using active recall to cement your knowledge, and getting plenty of hands-on practice, you’ll give yourself the best possible shot at success. I hope my personal insights help you feel more prepared for SQE2, and remember—your effort today is bringing you one step closer to becoming a qualified solicitor. Good luck!
If you are looking for SQE2 resources or support, click here.