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16 September 2026
Issue: 8177 / Categories: Legal News , Training & education , Career focus
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Solicitors exam to be shortened

The Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE), Part 1 is to contain fewer questions from January, after candidates complained of feeling ‘rushed’ and ‘pressurised’

The changes, announced this week, will bring the total number of multiple-choice questions from 360 to 340. Questions will also be grouped differently to make the exam less ‘challenging’. Candidates will have the same amount of time, two hours 33 minutes, and ethics and professional conduct will continue to be tested across all subject areas.

The Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) said the changes ‘signal SRA’s commitment to enhance confidence in the SQE’ and preserve ‘the reliability, rigour and consistency of the examination.

‘Developed through engagement with candidates, Kaplan, employers, training providers and the wider profession, they are informed by assessment data, candidate feedback and continued evaluation of how the assessment operates in practice’. 

MOVERS & SHAKERS

Anthony Collins—20 promotions

Anthony Collins—20 promotions

20 promotions mark major people investment at national law firm, Anthony Collins

Sidley—Elaine Whiteford

Sidley—Elaine Whiteford

Sidley adds competition litigator Elaine Whiteford in London

Charles Russell Speechlys—Claudina D’Costa

Charles Russell Speechlys—Claudina D’Costa

Charles Russell Speechlys welcomes Claudina D’Costa as Director of Client Development Marketing

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