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How do I apply for pupillage to become a barrister?
Apply through the Pupillage Gateway (opening annually in January), demonstrating strong advocacy skills, academic excellence, and relevant experience.
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Pupillage is a 12-month period of practical training divided into a non-practicing six and a practicing six.
Application Timeline
Stage
Timing
Gateway opens
January
Application deadline
February
First-round interviews
March-May
Offers made
May-July
Pupillage starts
October (following year)
What Chambers Look For
Academic excellence (first or strong 2:1), advocacy skills (mooting, debating), legal knowledge, impeccable written skills, and resilience.
Building Your Profile
Apply for mini-pupillages, participate in mooting, volunteer at the Free Representation Unit or law clinics, and marshal with judges.
The Numbers
Approximately 250-300 pupillages available each year for 2,000+ applicants. Persistence is essential.
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