For law undergraduates who began their degree before the SQE transition, the LPC route remains a valid and respected pathway to becoming a solicitor in England and Wales. Although the profession is moving toward the SQE, the Solicitors Regulation Authority has kept the LPC route open through long transitional rules to ensure that students already in the system can complete their qualification. This guide explains the full pathway clearly from start to finish for current and recent law undergraduates.
Section one
Eligibility for law undergraduates
If you started your qualifying law degree before 1 September 2021, you are eligible to qualify through the LPC route. You must complete the LPC and finish your training contract by 31 December 2032. This gives undergraduate students and recent graduates time to complete all stages without switching to the SQE.
Section two
Complete your qualifying law degree
Your LLB forms the academic stage of training. As long as your degree is a qualifying law degree covering the seven foundation subjects, you do not need the Graduate Diploma in Law. Law firms also value strong grades, legal experience and evidence of commercial awareness at this stage, as these will influence future training contract applications.
Section three
Progress to the Legal Practice Course
After your degree, the next step is the LPC. This is a vocational postgraduate programme that prepares you for life as a trainee solicitor. It teaches essential practical skills including drafting, advocacy, interviewing and legal research. The LPC can be taken full time over one year or part time over two years, and many students combine it with work or volunteering.
Section four
Applying for a training contract
Most law undergraduates begin applying for training contracts during their second or final year of university. A training contract is a two year period of structured, supervised legal work in a firm. You will complete several departmental seats to gain wide legal experience. Securing a training contract is competitive, so students often boost applications with legal internships, pro bono work and extracurricular experience.
Section five
Complete your training contract
During these two years you will put your LPC skills into practice. You must demonstrate professional competence, meet the SRA’s requirements and complete all assigned seats. At the end of the contract, the firm will confirm that you have met the standards needed for admission.
Section six
Satisfy the SRA’s character and suitability checks
All applicants must meet the SRA’s character and suitability requirements. This may include disclosure of past issues, financial checks or criminal record checks. The aim is to ensure that each new solicitor can uphold the trust and responsibilities of the profession.
Section seven
Apply for admission as a solicitor
After completing your training contract and meeting all suitability requirements, you can apply to be admitted to the Roll of Solicitors. Once approved by the SRA you are formally recognised as a solicitor of England and Wales.
Conclusion
For law undergraduates who started their degree before September 2021, the LPC route remains open and achievable through to 31 December 2032. It provides a structured pathway with clear academic, vocational and professional stages. With strong applications, practical experience and consistent preparation, the LPC route remains an excellent foundation for a successful legal career.
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