Law offers multiple routes in depending on where you are in your education and what type of legal career interests you. This page maps the most common routes and what you can be doing at each stage to strengthen your position.
Routes into law
There are three main routes into the legal profession. The solicitor route: complete a qualifying law degree or a non-law degree followed by the SQE preparation, then a two-year training contract. The barrister route: complete a qualifying law degree, then the Bar Practice Course, then pupillage. The chartered legal executive route: complete a CILEx qualification while working, without a degree. Each route has different entry points and timelines.
What to do at school
You do not need to study A-Level law to get into law at university. Strong performance in humanities and essay-based subjects is more valuable. Research the LNAT early if you are applying to law at institutions that require it. Look for open days at law faculties, virtual work experience with law firms, and initiatives such as the Social Mobility Foundation or Aspiring Solicitors. Build reading and argument habits early.
Work experience and vacation schemes
Law firms typically offer insight days, first-year schemes, and vacation schemes. Vacation schemes are the main route to a training contract offer at most large firms — many offers come directly from vacation scheme placements. First-year schemes and insight days are accessible from the first year of university. Apply early and to multiple firms.
Key tests and assessments
If applying to law at university, you may need the LNAT. If applying to law firms, you will likely face the Watson Glaser, verbal reasoning tests, situational judgement tests, and video interviews. Many firms use assessment centres as their final selection stage. Prepare for each stage specifically.
How to stand out
Law firms want to see genuine commercial awareness, evidence of critical thinking, and clear communication. Read broadsheet opinion pieces, follow legal news, and develop views on issues that matter in law. Voluntary work, debating, mooting, and law clinics all add relevant substance to an application.
Checklist
- Research LNAT requirements for target universities
- Apply for virtual or in-person law firm insight days
- Practise the Watson Glaser and verbal reasoning tests
- Build commercial awareness in legal and business sectors
- Explore first-year schemes and open days
- Research solicitor vs barrister vs chartered legal executive routes
Common mistakes to avoid
- Assuming you need to study A-Level law
- Not applying for vacation schemes early enough
- Underestimating the Watson Glaser test
- Applying to law without any commercial awareness preparation