One of the most common questions we see is whether budding solicitors should self-study for the SQE or take an SQE prep course. Both approaches are entirely valid, but the right option for you depends on several factors. Read on to learn more about each approach to help decide which SQE route is best for you.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 14 May 2026.
What does self-study for the SQE involve?
Self-study means you’ll prepare for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) on your own. You’ll likely still need resources, such as textbooks and revision guides, but you’ll study at your own pace and can set your own schedule. This option can appeal to those who have commitments outside their career. However, the SQE covers a broad range of legal subjects and demands a high level of study and revision, meaning you’ll have to be disciplined when it comes to putting in the work.
What does an SQE prep course involve?
An SQE prep course is a structured course designed to prepare you for the SQE assessments. With an SQE prep course you’ll be given the resources you need and access to legal professionals who can help make sense of the trickier areas of the law. That said, a course is often more structured in nature, and you’ll have to attend on set days and times. For many students, a course can help with accountability and ensure you study the right topics in the right way.
SQE self-study vs SQE prep course: The pros and cons
One of the biggest advantages of SQE self-study is the option to study independently at a pace that suits you and the flexibility this provides. However, SQE prep courses are becoming more and more flexible in order to fit around your schedule. For example, both our SQE1 Preparation Course and SQE2 Preparation Course are available to study full-time, part-time, on an evening and at weekends.
Self-study can also be a more affordable option, though you’ll likely still have to pay for revision materials and textbooks. However, by choosing to study by yourself you’ll have to manage your own learning, which can be difficult given the extensive scope of the SQE assessments.
This is why many law students opt for an SQE prep course. Though an SQE prep course will have a fee, it also means you’ll have access to expert lecturers who are on hand to offer advice whenever you need. You’ll also gain valuable feedback on your mock exams and practice questions which might prove invaluable. There is also the benefit of sharing the experience with other students and building a support network should you need it.
It’s also worth thinking about your practical experience of working within the legal world, as these are important components of the SQE, especially SQE2. If your experience of working within a law firm or with legal professionals is limited, then an SQE prep course might also be a better option to hone the essential legal skills you’ll need day to day. However, if you’ve been immersed in a firm for some time, you might be more familiar with the behaviours and attributes of practising solicitors, making self-study a more suitable option.
How to choose between SQE self-study and an SQE prep course
When it comes to choosing between the two paths you’ll need to consider factors such as your finances, schedule, self-discipline and, often most importantly, your legal knowledge base. No matter which path you choose you’ll face challenges, but without a strong legal foundation to build upon self-study will be incredibly difficult without support. Even individuals with legal competence can find the SQE challenging and choosing an SQE prep course is an investment in themselves and their future.
For some students the best approach may be a combination of self-study and a structured course. For example, some people may opt for a period of self-study before choosing to study a shorter SQE prep course, such as our online SQE1 and SQE2 exam prep courses, ahead of taking the assessments. It’s a chance to offset some of the cost, but still gain valuable feedback ahead of sitting the exams.
Ultimately, choosing between self-study and a prep course before sitting the SQE is a personal decision. Before deciding, it’s important to take the time to reflect on some of the points we’ve discussed above and make an informed decision about the path best suited to your success.
Explore our SQE preparation courses and discover the flexible study options designed to help you prepare with confidence for SQE1 and SQE2.
