Why is the English Language Requirement Part of the QLTS?
Applicants for the QLTS (other than EEA and Swiss lawyers - who are automatically exempted) will be required to demonstrate that they are able to read, write, comprehend and speak English to a high enough level to meet the competence standards expected of those qualifying via the domestic route.
The purpose of this requirement is to ensure those solicitors who have qualified via the QLTS have met sufficiently high English language requirements to enable them to take accurate instructions from, and give clear and accurate advice, to clients in English, to understand and draft legal documents in English and to exercise rights of audience.
Therefore, applicants will be required to show that they have achieved the Common European Framework for Reference (CEFR) Level C2 in English before attempting the QLTS assessment.
How Can You Demonstrate that You Have Satisfied the English Language Requirement?
The requirement can be evidenced in four ways:
- Option 1 - pass an English language test with an approved provider at CEFR Level C2 or above; test must have been passed within two years of the candidates applying for their certificate of eligibility. By way of an example, applicants can satisfy the English requirement by passing the Academic module of IELTS with an overall score of 7.5 or above. Applicants also need to pass the four Academic tests (in reading, writing, listening and speaking) with a minimum score of IELTS 7.5 in each test. IELTS is accepted as evidence of a prospective student's level of English by most universities and academic institutions in English speaking countries. It is recognised by more than 6000 institutions across 135 countries. Most of the candidates will be able to be tested in their own country with the British Council
- Option 2 - hold a degree assessed by UK NARIC as being taught in English and equivalent to a UK H-Level (e.g. Bachelors) degree
- Option 3 - hold a H-Level (e.g. Bachelors) degree or higher from a university recognised by UK NARIC in a country where NARIC has stated that all higher education takes place in English;
- Option 4 - old a H-Level (e.g. Bachelors) degree or above from a DBIS-recognised UK university
All EEA and Swiss candidates are exempted from the English language test due to EU legislation (European Directives 2005/36/EC or 98/5/EC).
Which Supporting Documents You Should Provide to Support Your Application?
- Option 1 - a certified copy of the completion certificate from the testing organisation and candidate reference number
- Option 2 - a certified copy of the NARIC English Language Assessment statement and applicant reference number
- Option 3 - a certified copy of your degree certificate and registration number
- Option 4 - a certified copy of your degree certificate and registration number
Your reference / registration number is your unique ID number for the relevant institution. For example, your University student ID number. You should be aware that the SRA will seek independent verification of your test results and degree awards.
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