How much does it cost to take the QLTS?

Nov 06, 2022

Written By Annika De Lathauwer

The Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) is a conversion scheme allowing qualified lawyers from abroad to become solicitors in England and Wales. There are many costs associated with this test, as well as with its replacement, the SQE.

Why take the QLTS

The QLTS allows lawyers to broaden their knowledge, thus making themselves more employable. Firms find it incredibly useful to have a lawyer that understands the law in multiple jurisdictions. However, most people’s primary reason for taking the QLTS is to enable themselves to move to England or Wales and continue practising law. It also allows barristers who trained in England and Wales to qualify as a solicitor.

Cost of QLTS

The examination fees are split between the MCT, which costs £588 +VAT, and the OSCE, which costs £3,042 + VAT. There are also expenses which emerge from taking a course to help pass these examinations.

For example, one online QLTS prep course charges £1,850 for the MCT and £2,400 for the OSCE, with a £450 discount if the courses are purchased together, meaning the OSCE would instead cost £1,950. These kinds of prep courses provide exam takers with textbooks, flashcards, practice questions, mock exams and sometimes even assistance from tutors.

Phasing out

The QLTS is being phased out and instead lawyers will have to take the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). You can continue to take the QLTS and complete the examination only if you have already passed the MCT, the first test of the QLTS.

Difference between the QLTS and the SQE

The QLTS and SQE are similarly structured with two sections. The first is the legal knowledge assessment; for the QLTS this is the MCT and for the SQE this is the SQE1. The second section is the legal skills assessment; for the QLTS this is the OSCE and for the SQE this is the SQE2.

The SQE1 and SQE2 exams are both longer than the respective MCT and OSCE. The SQE1 also covers more practice areas than the MCT. The QLTS has unlimited chances to pass, while each SQE assessment has 3 chances within a six-year period. In the QLTS there is no time frame within which both assessments must be passed, but in the SQE it must be done in six years. The SQE also requires proof of having completed two years of work experience.

Cost of SQE

The examination fees are split between the SQE1, which costs £1,622, and the SQE2, which costs £2,493. The total fee is £3,980. Note that this excludes the cost of prep courses, and any retakes.

SQE