Your Guide to the 2026 SQE Exam Dates
Planning your route to becoming a solicitor in the UK requires military-precision scheduling, and at the heart of that plan are the SQE exam dates. Knowing the key deadlines for the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) in 2026 is crucial for mapping out your preparation, managing commitments, and ensuring you don’t miss a critical window. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the anticipated SQE exam dates for 2026, helping you to strategise your approach effectively.
The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) and their assessment provider, Kaplan, typically run multiple sittings for both SQE1 and SQE2 throughout the year. While the exact dates for 2026 are based on established patterns and may be subject to slight changes, this schedule will give you a robust framework for your planning.
Understanding the SQE Exam Cycle
The SQE is split into two parts: SQE1, which tests Functioning Legal Knowledge (FLK), and SQE2, which assesses practical legal skills. Each has its own distinct schedule.
- SQE1: Typically has four sittings: January, April/May, July, and October. Each sitting is split into two parts, FLK1 and FLK2, which are taken on separate days within the same assessment window.
- SQE2: Also has four main sittings per year, usually in January, April, July and October. This exam is comprised of oral and written components, which are also spread across several days.
Key Takeaway
Plan Ahead! Booking for each SQE sitting typically opens around 3-4 months before the exam and closes 6-8 weeks prior. Results are then released approximately 6-8 weeks after the assessment. This timeline is critical for planning your qualification journey.
Anticipated SQE1 Exam Dates 2026
Based on the SRA's established patterns, here is the projected schedule for the SQE1 exams in 2026. These dates are estimates and should be confirmed on the official SRA website once released.
| Sitting | Exam Window (FLK1 & FLK2) | Estimated Booking Window Opens | Estimated Booking Deadline | Estimated Results Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | Mid-to-Late January 2026 | September 2025 | November 2025 | March 2026 |
| April/May 2026 | Late April / Early May 2026 | December 2025 | February 2026 | June 2026 |
| July 2026 | Mid-to-Late July 2026 | March 2026 | May 2026 | September 2026 |
| October 2026 | Mid-to-Late October 2026 | June 2026 | August 2026 | December 2026 |
Are You Ready for SQE1?
Don't leave it to chance. Use our SQE Readiness Calculator to assess your preparation level and identify areas for improvement.
Anticipated SQE2 Exam Dates 2026
SQE2 is the final hurdle. The sittings are also spread throughout the year, allowing for flexibility. Remember that you must have passed SQE1 before you can sit SQE2.
| Sitting | Written & Oral Exam Window | Estimated Booking Window Opens | Estimated Booking Deadline | Estimated Results Release |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January 2026 | Late Jan / Early Feb 2026 | September 2025 | November 2025 | May 2026 |
| April 2026 | Late April / Early May 2026 | December 2025 | February 2026 | August 2026 |
| July 2026 | Late July / Early August 2026 | March 2026 | May 2026 | November 2026 |
| October 2026 | Late Oct / Early Nov 2026 | June 2026 | August 2026 | February 2027 |
How to Choose Your SQE Sitting
Selecting the right exam date is a strategic decision. Here are some factors to consider:
- Preparation Time: Be realistic about how long you need to prepare. Most candidates require 6-9 months of dedicated study for SQE1. Our SQE1 Study Plan can help you structure your time.
- Work and Personal Commitments: If you are working full-time or have other significant commitments, you may need a longer preparation runway. Choose a sitting that allows you to balance your studies without burning out.
- Target Qualification Date: Work backwards from when you want to qualify. Factor in the time for the exam, results, and the SRA's admission process. For a detailed overview, see our Complete Guide to the SQE.
- Resit Policies: If you fail an assessment, you can resit it. However, you are limited to three attempts for each SQE component within a six-year period. Plan your sittings to allow for potential resits without derailing your career timeline.
Key Takeaway
Choosing Your Date is a Personal Decision. There is no 'best' time to sit the SQE. The ideal date depends entirely on your individual circumstances, preparation level, and career goals. Take time to map out your journey before booking.
The Booking Process and Test Centres
Once you've chosen your sitting, the booking process is managed through the official SQE portal. You will need to create an account and register as a candidate. Exams are administered by Pearson VUE, which has a large network of test centres across the UK and internationally. It's advisable to book your preferred location as early as possible, as popular centres can fill up quickly.
For a full breakdown of the financial commitment, read our guide on the SQE Cost Breakdown. Understanding the fees is a key part of your planning.
What Happens if You Fail?
Failing an SQE assessment can be disheartening, but it is not the end of the road. The SRA's policy allows for three attempts at each of SQE1 and SQE2. If you fail, you will receive feedback on your performance to help you prepare for the next attempt. You will have to wait for the next available sitting and pay the exam fee again. It's crucial to analyse your results, identify your weak areas, and create a targeted study plan. Our article on How to Pass SQE1 offers strategies for success.