Can international students be lawyers in UK?
Asked by: Darryl Sanford | Last update: December 12, 2025Score: 4.5/5 (34 votes)
From September 2021, lawyers from abroad and overseas students who wish to qualify in England and Wales can sit the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). The SQE allows you to qualify as a solicitor by taking the same exam as domestic candidates.
Do UK law firms hire international students?
Most law firms recruit trainees up to two years in advance, so it's important to plan ahead. As an international student, you would require visa sponsorship from your Training Contract provider.
Can an international student become a lawyer?
Several states in the US including New York and California allow international students with an LL. M. to take the bar exam and practice law.
Can Nigerian lawyers practice in the UK?
For England and Wales, the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) is the regulatory body that oversees the qualification of foreign lawyers. The process begins with an assessment by the SRA to determine if your qualifications and experience as a Nigerian lawyer are equivalent to those required in the UK.
What qualifications do I need to be a lawyer in the UK?
take an undergraduate degree in any subject, or equivalent qualification, in any subject. pass parts 1 and 2 of the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) complete 2 years (or equivalent if part-time) qualifying work experience. meet the character and suitability requirements of the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA)
How to become a lawyer in the UK (4 different ways)
Can foreigners work as lawyers in UK?
If you're an overseas student, in order to qualify as a solicitor in England and Wales, you'll need to: hold a degree in any subject or an equivalent qualification (such as an apprenticeship) or work experience. complete two stages of assessment, SQE1 and SQE2. complete two years of qualifying work experience (QWE)
Can international students study law in the UK?
Studying law as an international student in the UK is a very popular choice amongst students who opt to study internationally. The experience can be both rewarding and exhilarating for many.
Is it easy to get a job as a lawyer in UK?
Becoming a lawyer in the UK is not a quick process by any means. It involves dedication, years of study and work experience, and ongoing professional development.
Can I study law in Nigeria and work abroad?
Lawyers who study in Nigeria can practice law in foreign jurisdictions. However, they must meet the requirements established by the host country.
Can I practice law in UK without LLB?
To apply for an LPC you must first gain either a traditional Law degree (LLB), or have a non-law degree and have completed a GDL. You may then apply to universities and institutions that offer LPC preparation courses. Then, you should take and pass the LPC exam.
Is it harder to get into law school as an international student?
Applying to law school can be difficult for anyone, but foreign applicants face extra challenges. Still, getting in can be within reach with the right outlook, advice and support.
Can I go to law school with an international studies degree?
There is no pre-law curriculum in the United States; essentially law schools will take you regardless of your major if your grade point average and law board scores are high enough.
How hard is the bar exam?
The bar exam is hard. In fact, it may be one of the most difficult challenges you ever embark on. You must memorize numerous laws and consume a lot of knowledge to answer questions correctly. For many, it feels like trying to hold sand in your hands, knowing that you'll inevitably lose much of it.
Which law field is in demand in UK?
Here's a closer look at the areas we expect to see the highest demand: Currently, property, immigration, restructuring, and insolvency law are leading in growth.
Who hires international lawyers?
The available career paths for an international lawyer can be broken down into law firms, federal government, corporate counsel, international organizations and nonprofit groups.
How to apply to law school in the UK for international students?
All applications for undergraduate programmes to the University for full-time study are made online through the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service (UCAS). This includes applications from international students outside the UK.
Can I study law in UK and practice in Nigeria?
Nigerian graduates in the UK are required to take both their Bar 1 and Bar 2 exams upon their return to Nigeria in order to qualify to practice. Students who complete their LLB in Nigeria are only required to do Bar 2.
Which is the cheapest country to study law in?
1. What is the cheapest country for Indian students to study law in? Countries with free public education systems, like Germany and Norway, would be good destinations to study law for cheap prices. However, you can also opt for various scholarships if you want to go to other countries.
Who is the best law student in Nigeria?
Aminat Lawal, the Overall Best Graduating Student from the Nigerian Law School for the year 2023/2024 Bar finals shares inspiring tips on how she became the Best Graduating Student.
Do UK law firms hire foreigners?
Unfortunately, there is little support out there for foreigners entering the London legal market, and therefore I have seen many bright international students struggling with writing good applications. In other words, it's often not the case that big law firms prioritise local candidates over international candidates.
Do lawyers earn more in the UK or US?
At a glance. Trainees in London earn more than those working outside the capital. You'll earn less in smaller firms but will likely rise up the ladder quicker. USA based firms pay the highest trainee and newly-qualified salaries, followed by Magic Circle then City firms.
How much do beginner lawyers make in the UK?
The average lawyer salary in the United Kingdom is £50,000 per year or £25.64 per hour. Entry level positions start at £40,559 per year while most experienced workers make up to £78,000 per year.
How can a foreigner become a lawyer in the UK?
- hold a legal professional qualification.
- hold a degree in any subject or an equivalent qualification (such as an apprenticeship) or work experience.
- complete two stages of assessment, SQE1 and SQE2, unless exempt.
What qualifications do I need to study law in the UK?
- A levels. ABB.
- Scottish Highers. BBB.
- Vocational. BTEC D*D*D* (Level 3 National Extended Diploma in specific subjects) Other Level 3/Level 6 qualifications (e.g. Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Diploma or SQCF Level 6) may be accepted as an alternative.