Applying for your PSC

Dec 10, 2021

Written By Shermaine Williams

Before starting your Professional Skills Course (PSC), you need to make an application—it’s necessary to consider some details and follow several steps as part of this process. Making sure that you provide the details required in accordance with your circumstances will help to reduce the risk of encountering problems.

Know where to start

The Professional Skills Course, PSC, is a compulsory course which the SRA requires all trainee solicitors complete prior to being admitted as a solicitor. It is considered so important that there is an obligation on the firm with whom you are doing your recognised training, to pay for your PSC.

The course comprises of three compulsory core modules covering key areas of practice, and four elective modules, which you can choose from a wide choice of electives to suit your areas of interest.

Check eligibility requirements

There are several prerequisites that have to be met by those seeking to apply for the PSC, depending on your starting point. Usually, you must have successfully completed the Legal Practice Course, LPC, before beginning your PSC. However, there may be instances where the SRA will approve you starting the PSC before completing the LPC. If you can provide evidence that this is the case, then you will be able to start your PSC before completing the LPC.

Course details

In addition to checking the eligibility requirements, it’s prudent to review the outline of the course and familiarise yourself with what you can expect from it. If you haven’t already made a decision about the path that you want your law career to take, this can help give you a good idea of the skills you will acquire under each module.

The course is completed during your training contract. Training usually is conducted in small groups, which allows for one-to-one tutoring. The core modules have a duration of eight days, while you are required to attend for four days for the elective modules.

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How to apply

There are two main ways in which to apply for the PSC: directly online or by downloading a form. Programmes can be booked individually or in cost-effective, convenient packages. You don't need to confirm your full choice of courses and course dates when you buy a package, so you can benefit from our package savings whilst maintaining maximum flexibility.

Completing the form directly on the website will be the most convenient application route for most people. Through this option, it can be easier to spot any mistakes or omissions as the website highlights required information and will fail to submit when something is missing. Simply choose your preferred course dates and book at https://www.law.ac.uk/professional-development/how-to-apply-for-our-psc/

Alternatively, you can download a booking form directly from the website to print, which will then enable you to complete a hard copy of the form. Either way, you will need to access the website to commence your application.

Booking terms and conditions will outline everything you need to know about booking your place on the course.

The PSC can also be completed in-house if there are a sufficient number of participants at your firm. Email inhousetraining@law.ac.uk for more information.

For more information about the PSC, check out our dedicated website: PSC-Courses.co.uk

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