Deferred SQE1 exams - will it impact applications?

[tjeya26]

Hi everyone,
I have a first class undergrad degree in biochemistry and completed the GDL with SQE1 course at BPP with a distinction. During my GDL I obtained a vacation scheme at a city law firm but unfortunate didn’t convert it into a TC offer. Thereafter my SQE1 studies were significantly disrupted due to 2 close family bereavements, caring responsibilities etc. So, a year later, I managed to complete the SQE1 prep portion of my course but haven’t done the official SQE1 exams yet. I am planning to on January.
Will this be a significant disadvantage for me as I apply for training contracts this cycle? Do I have to explain why I haven’t done my sqe1 exams yet?
I’d appreciate any advice on the best way to approach this. Thank you in advance.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi everyone,
I have a first class undergrad degree in biochemistry and completed the GDL with SQE1 course at BPP with a distinction. During my GDL I obtained a vacation scheme at a city law firm but unfortunate didn’t convert it into a TC offer. Thereafter my SQE1 studies were significantly disrupted due to 2 close family bereavements, caring responsibilities etc. So, a year later, I managed to complete the SQE1 prep portion of my course but haven’t done the official SQE1 exams yet. I am planning to on January.
Will this be a significant disadvantage for me as I apply for training contracts this cycle? Do I have to explain why I haven’t done my sqe1 exams yet?
I’d appreciate any advice on the best way to approach this. Thank you in advance.

Hi!

Firstly, I am really sorry to hear about everything that you have had to deal with. It sounds like you have shown a lot of resilience in continuing your studies despite some very difficult circumstances.

In my view, I don't think it will be a significant disadvantage when applying for training contracts this cycle. You already have a very strong academic profile (a first-class degree, a distinction in the GDL, and a vacation scheme at a City firm), so you have clearly demonstrated your ability.

If an application asks you to explain any mitigating circumstances or academic disruptions, I would mention the bereavements and caring responsibilities, as they provide important context for the delay. If there isn't a specific section, I don't think you need to force it into every application, but you can always raise it later in the process if it is relevant or if you are asked about the gap.

I also wouldn't worry too much about not having sat the SQE1 exams yet. Many firms recruit candidates before they have completed the SQE (+ they usually have no expectations that a candidate has already done them), and if you are planning to sit the exams in January, I would simply state that on your applications if possible (e.g. "SQE1 examinations scheduled for January 2027"). I don't think the delay, in itself, would prevent you from being a competitive candidate.

Overall, I think you are still in a strong position for this cycle, and I wouldn't let the timing of the SQE1 exams put you off applying. I wish you the best with both your applications and your exams!

 

[tjeya26]

Thank you so much Abbie. This is really helpful.