How Long To Prepare for SQE2?

One of the first questions candidates ask after passing SQE1 is: “How long should I prepare for SQE2?” It’s a fair question — the exam is expensive, demanding, and requires a very different style of preparation. The truth is, there isn’t a one-size-fits-all answer. How long you need depends on your background, work schedule, and confidence with both legal knowledge and practical skills. But with the right plan, you can build a timeline that works for you. Here’s a breakdown of what you should expect when deciding how long to prepare for SQE2 — and how to make those weeks count. SQE2 Is a Different Beast from SQE1 Before we talk timelines, let’s get clear on what makes SQE2 preparation different. SQE1 is about recognition. You’re given multiple-choice questions where the right answer is hidden among options. SQE2 is about recall and application. You have nothing in front of you — you need to know the law cold and apply it to scenarios. SQE2 also tests skills. Client interviews, advocacy, attendance notes, drafting, legal writing, legal research, case and matter analysis — you’re marked on structure, clarity, and professionalism as much as on the law itself. This means SQE2 prep isn’t just about memorising legal rules. It’s about practising skills, using active recall, and rehearsing under timed conditions. That can take longer than practicing just multiple-choice questions. Timeline 1: 3 Months of Focused Prep For many candidates, 12 weeks (3 months) part-time study is the sweet spot. This works best if: You can commit around 10–15 hours per week. You already have some practice experience (paralegal, trainee, in-house role). A 3-month plan allows you to: Spend the first 4 weeks revising black-letter law using active recall during the week and doing mocks at the weekend. From weeks 5–8, build in more skill-specific practice (reviewing and memorising assessment criteria and key structures) while keeping the active recall + weekend mocks routine. In the final 4 weeks, shift focus to filling knowledge gaps, running through speedy mocks, and refining exam technique. Timeline 2: 6 Months of Balanced Prep If you’re working full-time and have other commitments or haven’t touched studying in a while, 6 months is a safer bet. This longer runway works well for candidates who: Struggled with SQE1 and need extra time to rebuild confidence. Are balancing prep with a demanding job or caring responsibilities. Want to spread out study into smaller, more manageable chunks. A 6-month plan allows for steady repetition, which is vital for long-term recall. It also gives you time to practise skills gradually, rather than cramming all your mocks into the final few weeks. Timeline 3: Intensive 8–10 Weeks Some candidates do succeed with an intensive prep schedule — around 2 to 2.5 months — but this most likely to only work if you: Can dedicate 20–25+ hours per week consistently. Have relatively recent, strong SQE1 knowledge. Already practise legal skills in your day job. Are highly academic, understand concepts quickly and ace exams easily. This approach is high risk, high reward. It can work for paralegals or trainees with strong foundations, but for most candidates it doesn’t leave enough time for repetition, feedback, and mock practice. How to Decide Which Timeline Works for You Ask yourself: How fresh is my SQE1 knowledge? If you sat SQE1 a year ago, you’ll need longer to refresh. How much time can I realistically give each week? Be honest about work, family, and other commitments. How confident am I with the skills? If you’ve never done advocacy or drafting, you’ll need extra time to practise. The key is not just how many weeks you study, but how you use them. What to Prioritise in Any Timeline No matter how long you have, your SQE2 prep should include: Active recall: Don’t just reread notes — test yourself daily. Mock practice: Work under timed conditions and mark yourself against the SRA criteria. Criteria review: Spend time understanding the criteria for each assessment. Feedback: Whether from tutors, peers, or self-marking, feedback is the fastest way to improve. Final Thoughts So, how long should you prepare for SQE2? Most candidates do best with 3–6 months, depending on their background and weekly availability. Less than 3 months is risky unless you’re already confident, and more than 6 months can lead to burnout if not managed carefully. Remember: it’s not about how long you study, but how deliberately you use your time. With active recall, plenty of practice, and a clear plan, you can walk into the SQE2 feeling prepared and confident.