What is the Law Drills 63% Rule for SQE1 Success?

The 63% rule states that candidates who consistently score above 63% on Law Drills multiple-choice questions have a 78% probability of passing SQE1. This threshold emerged from analysing performance data from the January 2025 exam sitting and applies to both FLK1 and FLK2 papers equally.

Key findings from our data analysis:

• 78% pass rate for candidates scoring >63% on Law Drills

• Significantly lower pass rates for those scoring <63%

• This threshold applies for both FLK1 and FLK2

• Threshold applies across most subject areas within SQE1

• Minimum 50 MCQs per subject needed for accurate assessment

This threshold isn't a guarantee of success but represents a statistically significant correlation. Factors like exam-day performance, time management, and question variation still play crucial roles in determining outcomes.

How Does the SQE1 Scaled Scoring System Work?

The SQE1 uses a scaled scoring system that converts raw scores (correct answers) into a standardised scale of 0-500. The pass mark is set at 300 for each FLK paper, which typically requires 55-60% correct answers, though this varies based on exam difficulty.

Understanding the scoring system:

• Raw score: Number of correct answers out of 180 per FLK

• Scaled score: Adjusted score (0-500) accounting for difficulty

• Pass mark: 300/500 for both FLK1 and FLK2

• Typical requirement: 53-57% correct answers

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) implements this system to ensure fairness across different exam sittings. A harder paper requires fewer correct answers to achieve the pass mark, while an easier paper demands more correct responses.

What Percentage Should You Aim for on Practice Questions?

Aim for 63%+ correct answers on Law Drills practice MCQs to build a safety margin above the pass threshold. While the official pass mark equates to roughly 53-57%, consistent practice scores above this account for exam-day variables like stress, fatigue, and question variation.

Target scores by preparation stage on Law Drills:

• Early preparation: 35-50% acceptable while learning fundamentals. Start early with Law Drills, knowing you’ll never run out of questions and can practice fearlessly.

• Mid-preparation: Aim for 55-60%+ (Law Drills threshold)

• Final preparation: Maintain 60-70% across all subjects

• Exam readiness: 63%+ provides strong confidence

These guidelines above are for Law Drills users. Remember that practice question difficulty varies between providers. Some platforms create intentionally challenging questions to overprepare candidates, while others more closely mirror actual exam difficulty.

Why Does the Number of Practice Questions Matter for SQE1?

Practice volume directly correlates with pass rates, with candidates completing extensive practice achieving significantly higher pass rates. The quantity of practice questions helps develop pattern recognition, timing skills, and subject mastery essential for exam success.

Recommended practice volumes:

• Minimum per topic: 50 MCQs before assessing readiness

• Weekly target: 80 timed MCQs at 102 seconds each. Use the ‘Sets’ mode on Law Drills to do this and build your exam muscle.

• Total preparation: 1,500 - 3,000+ questions across all topics

• Full practice sessions: 10+ complete 180-question simulations

Beyond raw numbers, focus on quality practice. Track errors systematically, review explanations thoroughly, and ensure you understand why incorrect answers are wrong. This approach transforms practice into genuine learning rather than mere repetition.

How Should You Study Based on Law Drills Scores?

Adjust your study plan when Law Drills scores consistently fall below 63% after completing 50+ questions per subject. The 63% threshold specifically applies to Law Drills MCQs and may not translate directly to other prep providers due to varying question difficulty and scoring methodologies.

Score-based study adjustments for Law Drills performance:

• Below 50%: Return to foundational materials, focus on understanding core concepts

• 50-63%: Increase practice volume, analyse error patterns systematically

• 63-70%: Maintain current approach, refine timing and exam strategy

• Above 70%: Focus on consistency and advanced question types

Create a weekly review cycle analysing Law Drills performance data, identifying patterns in incorrect answers, and adjusting study materials accordingly. Document which question types consistently challenge you and dedicate focused sessions to mastering these areas through targeted Law Drills practice.

The Law Drills AI Coach will do a lot of this heavy lifting and adjustment for you, but it’s always good for you to do the review works as well. Especially if you’re scoring in the 50s.

What Additional Factors Beyond Scores Predict SQE1 Success?

While Law Drills scores provide crucial indicators, factors like consistent study habits, error analysis quality, and exam technique equally predict success. Candidates who maintain regular schedules, thoroughly review mistakes, and develop time-pressure strategies typically outperform their practice scores.

Success predictors beyond scores:

• Daily study consistency (minimum 2-3 hours)

• Quality of error analysis and systematic correction

• Practicing under timed conditions to build exam endurance - use the Law Drills ‘Sets’ mode to build this muscle.

• Regular full-length mock sessions replicating exam pressure

• Completion of qualifying work experience alongside study

• Physical and mental wellbeing maintenance

Successful candidates report that combining Law Drills' adaptive practice with comprehensive study materials, regular timed sessions, and strategic review creates the optimal preparation ecosystem. The 63% rule serves as a benchmark within this broader framework, but consistent practice under exam conditions builds the resilience needed for test day success.