What is the QLTS?
The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme or QLTS is a fast-track route for qualification as a solicitor in England and Wales for international lawyers. The programme is administered by the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA), the regulatory body of the Law Society of England and Wales.
The QLTS assessments comprise written examinations and practical assessments. The purpose of the assessments is to ensure that all candidates who qualify as solicitors have the knowledge, skills and ability necessary to perform their role competently and ethically.
Simple and Consistent Approach
The QLTS replaced the previous regime, the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Test (QLTT) exams, in September 2010. The new scheme promotes much more simple and consistent approach for assessment comparing to the previous QLTT.
- EEA, Swiss and UK Qualified Lawyer applicants have their qualifications and experience individually assessed. On the basis of this assessment, the SRA decides which assessments will need to be passed.
- All other international lawyers need to take all the assessments
Overall, the new Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme covers lawyers from a wider range of jurisdictions than under the previous Qualified Lawyers Transfer test (QLTT).
The Solicitors Regulation Authority has published a statement of what all solicitors who follow the domestic route to qualification should know and be able to do at the point of qualification. This statement is described at the “Day One Outcomes”.
Using the Day One Outcomes as a starting point, all transferees are required to demonstrate that they have the equivalent knowledge and understanding of law and practice in England and Wales in the same areas as that required of individuals who qualify under the domestic route.
How are You Assessed on the QLTS?
The QLTS includes three separate assessments - the MCT, OSCE and TLST.
