CILEX vs. SQE: Choosing the Right Route to Qualification

The legal profession in England and Wales offers two primary routes to qualification: the CILEX Professional Qualification (CPQ) and the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). Both lead to recognised legal careers, but they cater to different ambitions, financial considerations, and study preferences. With ongoing debates about the SQE’s implementation, now is the perfect time to explore how these routes compare and which one is right for you.

What’s the Difference Between CPQ and SQE?

While both CPQ and SQE train legal professionals to a high standard, they follow distinct approaches:

• CILEX Lawyers specialise in a particular area of law from the outset, building expertise while working and studying at the same time. On completion they receive authorisation in their chosen area of legal practice.

• Solicitors, via the SQE route, train as generalists, typically specialising after qualification.

• Cost, accessibility, and flexibility differ significantly, making CPQ a more affordable and structured option for many aspiring legal professionals.

The CPQ Framework – Different by Design

The CILEX Professional Qualification (CPQ) Framework is a progressive, competency-based qualification structure. Developed through extensive research and consultation with legal employers, CPQ stands out in two key ways:

• Competence as well as knowledge: Unlike traditional qualification routes, CPQ integrates professional skills and competency assessments alongside legal knowledge. This ensures that CILEX Paralegals and qualified CILEX Lawyers can evidence and add value to employers early in their career and are well-prepared for long-term success.

• Flexibility at its core: CPQ offers a structured pathway for both aspiring paralegals and CILEX Lawyers, with multiple entry points. The modular design allows learners to customise their journey and speed to qualifying , gain recognition for prior legal qualifications, and specialise in a legal practice area.

Key Benefits of CPQ

• Earn while you learn – Study while gaining practical experience.

• Early specialisation – Focus on a specific area of law from the start.

• Flexible study options – Learn at your own pace with recognition for prior legal qualifications.

• Practical and commercial skills – Develop workplace-ready expertise.

• Authentic assessment – Varied and modular assessment methods, with work-based competence at the core. 
  
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• Continued career progression support – Ongoing guidance and opportunities.

• Exemptions for part-qualified SQE students – Transfer your existing legal training.

What is the SQE?

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) is the new centralised route to qualifying as a solicitor in England and Wales. It replaces the previous Legal Practice Course (LPC) and traditional training contract system.

While you no longer need a law degree or conversion course to sit the SQE, the exams are highly challenging. Most candidates undertake extensive preparation to improve their chances of passing.

The Four-Step Process to Qualify via SQE

1. Hold a degree (or equivalent qualification) in any discipline.

2. Pass the SQE1 and SQE2 exams – covering legal knowledge and practical skills.

3. Complete two years of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) – similar to a training contract.

4. Pass the SRA’s character and suitability assessment before admission.

While SQE offers a more flexible qualification model than the previous system, concerns remain around cost, transparency, and accessibility. Many aspiring solicitors face significant financial and logistical challenges while navigating the new framework.

CPQ vs. SQE – A Side-by-Side Comparison

The SQE in Focus

Recent discussions in the legal sector highlight ongoing concerns about the SQE, including:

• Cost & Accessibility: The SQE’s high cost has been a barrier for many aspiring solicitors.

• Exam Transparency & Assessment Design: A lack of mark breakdowns and past papers makes preparation challenging.

• Reasonable Adjustments: Candidates, particularly those who are neurodivergent, report difficulties obtaining necessary exam accommodations.

• Work Experience Clarity: The flexibility of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) is an advantage but has led to inconsistencies in training quality.

These issues have prompted regulatory reviews, with the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) acknowledging areas for improvement.

Why Choose CPQ?

For many, CPQ offers a practical, cost-effective alternative to SQE. It allows trainees to build legal expertise while working, making it an ideal choice for career changers, school leavers, those with a prior legal qualification, and those seeking a more affordable route into law.

Testimonials

”One of the big advantages to CILEX is the flexibility, it allows you to learn at your own pace, fitting around life, around work.” - Samantha Heydon, CILEX Graduate 2023.

“I definitely recommend the CILEX route. You can work at the same time and you can balance it around everyday life. You still get the end result ultimately.” - Lindsey

Where to Start?

If you’re considering the CPQ route, join our monthly webinar where we break down the qualification process and answer your questions. Register here.

Alternatively, download a CPQ prospectus to explore how this route can work for you.

Final Thoughts

Both CPQ and SQE offer paths to a legal career, but your choice depends on cost, specialisation, and flexibility. If you prefer an affordable, structured route that lets you specialise early and sit focused, relevant assessments which lead to authorisation in your chosen area of practice, CPQ is a strong alternative to SQE.

Explore your options today and take the first step toward your legal career.