Why Do Candidates Fail the SQE the First Time?

Most first-time SQE failures stem from gaps in exam technique or preparation strategies, not a lack of ability. Here's what typically goes wrong:

• Inadequate legal foundation in topics like criminal law, retained EU law, and property law.

• Weak multiple-choice exam technique, especially under pressure.

• Time management issues, leading to rushed or skipped questions.

• Passive learning without sufficient active recall or mock tests.

• Overconfidence, particularly in topics covered during university or the LPC.

👉 SRA performance reports often highlight topic-level weaknesses. Use these to guide your next study plan.

What Should You Do After Failing the SQE?

Start by identifying what didn’t work in your first attempt. Focus your strategy around:

• Detailed feedback review to spot weak areas.

• Score breakdown analysis: Prioritise any subject under 55%, but don’t ignore near-pass sections.

• New study format: If you self-studied, try a structured revision course. If you used a course, try more active learning methods.

This reflection ensures you avoid repeating the same mistakes.

How Can You Build a Stronger Second-Attempt Study Plan?

Try creating a 3–6 month plan with daily goals and progress tracking. This will help to prevent procrastination and lead you to prepare for your second attempt more efficiently. Allocate your time roughly as follows:

• 40% on weak legal knowledge areas

• 50% on question practice under timed conditions

• 10% on full mock exams

📌 Tip: Focus on understanding “why” an answer is right or wrong, not just memorising it.

Which Study Techniques Work Best for the SQE Retake?

There are many different study methods and everyone learns in different ways. Effective second-attempt strategies include:

• Active recall via flashcards and timed quizzes.

• Question flagging systems to revisit unsure answers.

• Mixed question banks to broaden exposure and reduce pattern memorisation.

• Daily review logs to track learning and reinforce retention.

Avoid passive reading as this will prevent information being stored in your long-term memory. Prioritise methods that mimic exam pressure and decision-making.

What Psychological Strategies Help After Failing?

The biggest hurdle may not be knowledge—it’s confidence. You may be anxious to resit the SQE due to your first attempt. Combat SQE retake anxiety by:

• Reframing failure as experience, not defeat.

• Setting process goals like “30 questions per day” over “pass the exam”.

• Joining support groups with other retake candidates.

• Speaking to a mentor or mental health professional if anxiety affects your preparation.

This emotional resilience often separates second-time passers from repeat failures.

What Are High-Priority Topics for 2025?

It is found that many students mainly struggle on a specific range of areas. Focus on these areas where many candidates struggle:

• Constitutional & Administrative Law: Judicial review and human rights.

• Tort Law: Causation and remoteness.

• Criminal Law and Procedure: Integrated questions testing both.

• Solicitors' Accounts: Calculation-based questions with consistent formats.

• Property Practice: Understanding both legal rules and procedural steps.

🧠 Stay updated with SRA syllabus changes and check current guidance on high-weight topics.

How Do You Simulate Exam Conditions Effectively?

Practice is most effective when realistic. Here’s how:

• Use a timer for every practice block. This will aid your time management in the actual exam.

• Take full-length mock exams at least twice before your retake. This is more representative of the real exam and increase your confidence for your resit.

• Review underperforming areas immediately after mocks.

• Create test-day routines (sleep, meals, music) to improve focus.

Doing this regularly builds endurance and familiarity with the SQE format.

How Should You Time Your Retake?

Don’t rush or delay too long. Book your SQE retake when:

• You can commit 10–15 hours/week to study.

• You consistently score 60–70%+ in timed practice.

• You’ve completed 2–3 full mocks with solid performance.

👉 SRA exam windows open early—check key 2025 SQE dates to avoid missing a deadline.

What Else Can You Do While Preparing for Your Retake?

Retaking the SQE is an opportunity for wider legal development:

• Join legal webinars or networking events

• Gain part-time legal work experience

• Keep updated on legal developments, especially in commercial and tech law

• Revisit your long-term solicitor career goals

Every step you take now improves your future as a solicitor.

In Summary…

Having to resit the SQE may cause a dip in confidence or increase anxiousness however, with the right preparation strategies you can ace this exam!