4 mins read
Doing an apprenticeship is an alternate route into becoming a solicitor and functions differently to a degree with more of a practical focus. To help you understand the benefits of a Level 7 Legal Apprenticeship, we have compiled the top points to consider such as how to apply, what day-to-day life looks like, and the assessments you will take to become a qualified solicitor.
By Editorial Team. Published 09 February 2022. Last updated 27 October 2026.
Why study a legal apprenticeship?
A legal apprenticeship can be an excellent alternate route into a legal career without student debt and being able to earn a wage while you are studying. You will gain independence and confidence in a workplace environment. It can open up your career in many specialisms via the development of communication and soft skills, technical understanding, and attention to detail. You will develop all the skills you need to increase your employability and start a successful legal career.
What is a Level 7 legal apprenticeship?
A Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship combines paid legal work, academic study and preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examination over six years. The scheme includes all the content in a law degree and enables an apprentice to get a law degree and LLM Masters. Once an apprentice completes the apprenticeship and passes the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) assessment, the apprentice can qualify as a solicitor.
To qualify as a Solicitor Apprentice, you need to complete two stages of the SQE. Stage one is part of the on-programme assessment, while stage two is the end-point assessment that must be taken during the last six months of the apprenticeship.
Who is eligible for a Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship?
Level 7 legal programme is available for A-level students, chartered legal executives and paralegals. The study time can be reduced for those who progress from other legal apprenticeships.
Average legal apprentice salary
The national average salary for a legal apprentice could be up to 33k a year according to Legal Cheek, though this reflects the top end of the scale and many employers will pay less. There are different pay rates for apprentices depending on your age and what year of apprenticeship you’re in. You’ll also be entitled to holiday pay and other employee rights.
How does a Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship work?
A law apprenticeship covers 80% paid work and 20% study and training. Your work will be assessed by a work-based assessor who will come to the office to check on your progress and build a work-based portfolio. You will need to complete weekly tasks and get feedback from your tutor at The University of Law.
Your assessments will be different for each subject; you will either sit a written exam at your local ULaw campus or complete a piece of coursework. Then you will work towards the Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE), Part 1&2. Upon successful completion, subject to SRA Character and Suitability test, you can become a qualified lawyer.
You will be supported to develop the skills and maturity to work with your clients using your knowledge and experience. You will learn how to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
You will learn how to handle complex, sensitive and confidential information, conduct research on behalf of your clients, and draft clients’ documents.
As you progress and learn more, you will develop skills in managing all stakeholders taking legal matters from enquiry to completion.
Do solicitors apprentices pay university fees?
No, solicitors' apprentices don’t have to pay university fees as their training and tuition costs are fully covered by the employer and the government.
Is a Level 7 legal apprenticeship equivalent to a degree?
Yes, a Level 7 Legal Apprenticeship is equivalent to a master's level qualification. The route also combines master’s level study with workplace training and the assessments required to qualify as a solicitor.
More information on studying for an apprenticeship with ULaw can be found on our Legal Apprenticeships webpage
