A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for the Postgraduate Diploma in Law

Jun 18, 2023

Written By John Toher

Are you considering a career in law but not sure how to go about it? The process can often seem confusing to non-law graduates, particularly amid the recent changes to how to qualify. So, here’s a handy step-by-step guide.

What is the PGDL?

The PGDL is essentially a three year law degree compressed into an eight month full-time course, or double that if taken part-time. The course provides a comprehensive overview of the core legal concepts and principles needed to pursue a career as a solicitor or barrister, for those with no prior legal education.

Whilst no longer an obligatory rung on the ladder to qualification since the transition from LPC to SQE, it is highly recommended to help you pass the first part of the SQE examination, the SQE1, to qualify as a solicitor. Furthermore, it’s mandatory if you want to take a bar training course to qualify as a barrister.

With over 20 institutions offering the PGDL in England and Wales, it is important you choose the right provider for you, as costs and eligibility vary.

Before you apply - is this course suitable for me?

As a former PGDL student I know first-hand how intensive and time-consuming this course can be. The workload and dedication expected of you is considerable and will take up pretty much all of your time. Unlike undergraduate, skimming over course material 15 minutes before class won’t be enough.

You are expected to learn reams of rather complicated information before each class and to be able to demonstrate this knowledge throughout the tutorial/workshop. Winging it doesn’t work and tutors are pretty adept at spotting and making an example of those who didn’t come prepared.

I consider myself an above average blagger and this served me well throughout my undergraduate degree, but I soon learned these skills wouldn’t see me through the PGDL. So, be 100% sure you have enough time to dedicate to doing the work.

With this advice in mind, you now need to know how to go about applying and what the application process involves.

Am I eligible?

Do you have a 2.1 or above in your undergraduate degree? Most PGDL course providers require a minimum of a 2.2 as a course entry requirement. However, as most top law firms expect applicants to have a 2:1, your chances of employment post-qualification is something you should also give careful consideration to. This is true irrespective of how well you do in the PGDL.

How do I apply?

This will depend on the institution you are applying to. However, generally speaking you will need the following to make an application.

- University transcript (all academic years)

- Degree certificate (graduates)

- Personal statement (explaining your reasons why you want to convert to law)

- References, academic and professional, where requested

- Residency details (to determine if you’re eligible for home fees or if you need a visa)

How much does it cost?

PGDL course costs vary considerably from institution to institution, ranging anywhere from £5,000 at the lower end of the scale to £13,000 at the upper end. Cheaper courses can be found online and outside of London.

How can I fund it?

The PGDL is not eligible for postgraduate government funding as it is not a full master’s degree.

Some providers offer the PGDL as a master’s degree to get around this. This is more expensive than the PGDL and would require three months additional study, often including a dissertation or other extended project. Opting for this qualifies you for up to £12,167 postgraduate master’s Loan. This works the same as an undergraduate student loan in terms of repayment.

You can only use this once, so if you already have a master’s degree you cannot get a loan again. The usual nationality/residency criteria for student loan eligibility applies.

Other postgraduate funding options are loans from third party lenders, self-funding or scholarships and bursaries. If you manage to secure a training contract, the firm may even pay your PGDL fees and provide you with a maintenance loan.

Applications for bursaries, scholarships and firm sponsorship are highly competitive. However, you can make yourself stand out by talking about what makes you unique, having a demonstrable interest in law, and completing some legal work experience.

PGDL/CPE