Degree and equivalent qualifications explained
Updated 23 July 2025
To qualify as a solicitor, you must have a degree in any subject, or an equivalent qualification or relevant experience. Find out what is accepted as a degree.
UK degrees and other qualifications
- A UK qualification at level 6 or above, awarded by a recognised degree-awarding body. This is typically an undergraduate degree, or other recognised level 6 qualifications. However, it can also include master's degrees and postgraduate diplomas.
- These equivalent UK qualifications:
- an accredited qualification at level 6 (or above) of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications, awarded by recognised degree-awarding body
- a regulated qualification at level 6 (or above) of the Regulated Qualifications Framework (England, Wales and Northern Ireland). This includes CILEX level 6 qualifications
- an apprenticeship at level 6 or above, approved by the government departments of England, Wales or Northern Ireland
- a qualification or apprenticeship at level 9 or above of the Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework, accredited by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) or awarded by a Scottish degree awarding body
Find out how we check and validate degrees and other qualifications.
Non-UK/overseas degrees and qualification
- A degree shown to be equivalent to either a UK degree/equivalent qualification
- An accredited qualification at level 6 (or above) of the European Qualifications Framework.
Find out how we check and validate degrees and other qualifications.
Work experience
Work experience equivalent to a UK degree/equivalent qualification can be considered on a case-by-case basis. This would be a sufficient standard of general education and learning (level 3 equivalent of the Regulated Qualifications Framework) and considerable work-based learning.
Find out how to apply for an equivalence.