Last Updated: January 2025

What makes ULaw different from other SQE providers?

ULaw stands out for comprehensive materials and extensive question banks, but students report poor teaching delivery and customer service issues that significantly impact the learning experience.

The University of Law positions itself as the UK's leading legal education provider, but what do actual students experience? Analysis of 36+ first-hand accounts from recent SQE candidates reveals a complex picture of excellent materials undermined by significant institutional challenges.

ULaw's reputation centres on comprehensive study materials and extensive question banks. Students consistently praise the depth of their textbooks and the quality of practice questions. However, first-hand experiences reveal substantial concerns about teaching delivery, customer service, and value for money.

Key differentiators reported by students:

• Most comprehensive question bank available (1,400+ topic-based mocks)

• 14-volume manual set covering all SQE1 areas

• Strong focus on MCQ preparation techniques

• Established university branding and recognition

• Multiple study format options (full-time, part-time, online)

The provider offers both standalone SQE preparation courses and integrated LLM Legal Practice programmes. Students report significant differences in experience between these options.

According to the SRA's assessment regulations, successful completion of SQE1 and SQE2 assessments alongside qualifying work experience leads to admission as a solicitor¹.

How effective are ULaw's SQE study materials?

ULaw's materials are highly effective, with self-study students achieving first quintile results using only their 14-volume manuals and 1,400+ practice questions.

ULaw's study materials receive consistently positive feedback from both course students and self-study candidates. Multiple first-hand accounts confirm the materials' effectiveness for SQE1 preparation.

FinancialFeminazi, an international student from Kenya, achieved SQE1 success using only ULaw materials: "University of Law Manuals – 4th Edition (14 of them, excluding Legal Services). These resources are sufficient for any candidate planning to self-study for the SQE1."

Eastern-Sea-8463 passed first quintile using ULaw books: "Why don't you self-study? I did and passed first quintile. Just buy SQERevise and ULAW books."

Definition: First Quintile

First quintile refers to the top 20% of exam performers. In SQE1 context, this represents candidates who achieved the highest scores amongst all test-takers in their sitting.

Material quality breakdown:

• Textbooks: Comprehensive coverage, longer than competitors

• Question banks: Over 1,400 practice questions with detailed explanations

• Condensed notes: Simplified revision materials

• Mock exams: Regular practice tests throughout course

What mock scores do ULaw students typically achieve?

ULaw students typically score 58-80% on mock exams, with high-performers averaging 70-80% and standard students scoring 58-65% on FLK1 and FLK2 assessments.

Performance data from first-hand accounts reveals clear patterns in ULaw mock performance, with scores generally falling into two distinct ranges.

High-performing students consistently score 70-80%+ on ULaw assessments. mister-sprudelwasser, a firm-sponsored student, reported: "I scored similarly to you on mocks - around 80% on average on the ULaw mocks/weekly tests/question banks. In the end, I passed both FLK1 and FLK2 comfortably."

Mid-range students typically score 58-65%. Afraid_Medium9752 shared detailed performance data: "I did the ULAW prep course and am scoring in the 58-65% range for FLK1 and FLK2... my average on the ULaw question bank for flk1 is a 66% and I usually get around 58-65 on any generated mocks."

What are the main problems with ULaw's courses?

Students report serious issues including course cancellations with minimal notice, poor customer service, inconsistent teaching quality, and administrative problems that undermine the £14,000+ investment.

First-hand accounts reveal serious systemic issues with ULaw's course administration and customer service that significantly impact the student experience.

Course cancellations represent the most serious complaint. ColdBloodedReptiles experienced: "They cancelled my course with less than a months notice after I'd relocated and entered a tenancy agreement. They basically said too bad and they would not offer any help despite me relocation on the reliance of my confirmed/accepted place."

Poor customer service compounds these problems. The same student found: "When I received the email telling me my course was cancelled I went into their office (during their open hours) at the Holloway Campus. No one was there. I couldn't get hold of anyone other than the generic phoneline in which they did not know what to do either."

How much does ULaw SQE preparation actually cost?

ULaw SQE preparation costs approximately £20,000 for the LLM Legal Practice route, making it one of the most expensive options available compared to £500-1,000 for self-study with their materials.

ULaw's pricing structure places it among the most expensive SQE preparation options, with total costs varying significantly by programme type and student status.

Is self-study with ULaw materials more effective than their courses?

Self-study with ULaw materials appears more effective and cost-efficient than formal courses, with multiple students achieving first quintile results independently while saving 90%+ on fees.

FAQ Schema

Q: How much do ULaw SQE courses cost?

A: ULaw's LLM Legal Practice programme costs approximately £20,000 total including exam fees. The PGDL route costs around £11,000, whilst self-study using ULaw materials costs £500-1,000.

Q: What mock scores do ULaw students typically achieve?

A: High-performing ULaw students score 70-80%+ on mocks, whilst typical students score 58-65%. Question bank averages around 66% for FLK1. Self-study students using ULaw materials report first quintile results.

Q: Are ULaw's study materials effective for SQE preparation?

A: Yes, ULaw materials receive consistent praise from students. The 14-volume manual set and 1,400+ practice questions are comprehensive. Multiple students achieved first quintile results using only ULaw materials through self-study.

Q: What are the main problems with ULaw courses?

A: Students report course cancellations with minimal notice, poor customer service, inconsistent teaching quality, and administrative issues. Many describe paying £14,000+ to essentially self-teach using the materials.

Q: Is self-study with ULaw materials better than taking their course?

A: Multiple first-hand accounts suggest self-study using ULaw materials is more cost-effective and potentially more successful than formal course enrollment, with several students achieving first quintile results independently.

Citations

¹ SRA. (2025). SQE Assessment Regulations. Solicitors Regulation Authority.