How Many People Fail the SQE the First Time? 

SQE 1 pass rates vary each year, but approximately 40–50% of candidates fail on their first attempt. This shows that if you were unsuccessful you're not alone—you may just need to take a different approach this time around!

Why Do Candidates Fail the SQE the First Time?

 Most first-time SQE failures stem from an inadequate foundation of legal knowledge, poor time management, passive learning without mock tests, and overconfidence.

Here's what typically goes wrong: 

• Many candidates lack sufficient legal knowledge in topics like criminal law, retained EU law, and property law.

• Some students complete too few multiple-choice tests in advance of hte exam and therefore have limited experience with exam technique and practice.

• Some candidates read over notes without completing active recall

• Many believe they are up to speed on certain topics however, do not know as much as they think preventing them from achieving their highest score

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

What Should You Do After Failing the SQE? 

Identify what didn’t work in your first attempt and build your strategy around detailed question feedback review, score breakdown analysis, and a new study format.

• Detailed question feedback review helps you spot weak areas.

• Score breakdown analysis allows you to prioritise any subject scoring under 55%. Don’t ignore near-pass sections.

• If you self-studied, consider a structured revision course. If you used a course, try more active learning methods.

This reflection helps ensure you don’t repeat the same mistakes.

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

Create a 3–6 month plan with daily goals and progress tracking. This helps prevent procrastination and prepares you more efficiently for your second attempt. 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 an SQE 1 Retake? 

There are many effective study methods, including active recall, question flagging systems, mixed question banks, and daily review logs. Everyone learns differently.

• Active recall using flashcards and timed quizzes helps retain information in your long-term memory.

• Question flagging systems allow you to revisit uncertain answers and strengthen knowledge in difficult areas.

• Mixed question banks broaden exposure and reduce pattern memorisation.

• Daily review logs track progress and reinforce retention.

Avoid passive reading—it prevents information from being stored in your long-term memory. Prioritise methods that simulate exam pressure and decision-making.

What Psychological Strategies Help After Failing? 

The biggest hurdle may not be knowledge but confidence. You may feel anxious about resitting SQE 1 after your first attempt. Combat retake anxiety by:

• Reframing failure as experience, not defeat.

• Setting process goals, like “30 questions per day,” instead of “pass the exam.”

• Joining support groups with other retake candidates.

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

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

How Do You Simulate Exam Conditions Effectively? 

Practice is most effective when it's realistic. To achieve this, use a timer focusing on completing 20 questions every 30 minutes, take full-length mock exams, review underperforming areas, and create test-day routines.

• A timer helps improve time management during the actual exam.

• Full-length mock exams replicate the real exam and boost your confidence.

• Reviewing underperforming areas immediately after mocks helps close knowledge gaps.

• Test-day routines (sleep, meals, music) improve focus and motivation, helping you perform better on the day.

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

How Should You Decide When To Retake? 

Don’t rush—but don’t delay too long either. Book your SQE retake when:

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

• You consistently score 60–70% or higher 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? 

While preparing for your retake, consider the following for broader legal development:

• Join legal webinars or networking events

• Gain part-time legal work experience such as volunteering for a legal advice centre

• Stay updated on legal developments

• Revisit your long-term solicitor career goals

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

In Summary… 

Not passing SQE1 at the first attempt may dent your confidence or increase anxiety. However, with the right preparation strategies, you can absolutely ace this exam. And remember—you’re not alone!