If you’re hoping to become a barrister you’ll have to complete a pupillage as part of your training. Below we explore what a pupillage is, how you might find one and discuss ways you can strengthen your application when the time comes to apply.
Written by Grant Longstaff. Published 08 May 2025.
What is pupillage?
Pupillage is the final part of your training to become a barrister and is a period of work based learning. You’ll usually complete a pupillage with the help and supervision of a qualified barrister and, once completed, you can become a member of the Bar.
What do I need before applying for a pupillage?
There are a few essential steps you must complete before you can apply for a pupillage. First of all you’ll need a law degree. Alternatively, if you have a degree in a non-law subject, you’ll need to complete a conversion course, such as the Postgraduate Diploma in Law (PGDL).
Once you’ve completed the first stage you’ll need to complete a period of vocational training through postgraduate study. For example, we offer a Bar Training Course (BPC) which fully prepares students for pupillage. This stage will also require you to join an inn of court, which are professional institutions for barristers in England and Wales.
When can I apply for pupillage?
To be eligible for pupillage you must have completed, or be in the process of completing, your bar training course and meet the requirements of your chosen Inn.
The most common way to apply for a pupillage is through the Pupillage Gateway managed by The Bar Council. The Bar Council website offers a great deal of advice and guidance on the pupillage application process. You can also apply directly to chambers outside of the Pupillage Gateway. It’s worth noting that through the Pupillage Gateway you can only make a maximum of 20 applications, however there are no limits on the number of chambers you can apply to directly.
Pupillage applications are often made over a year in advance of their start date so it’s important to start your pupillage application prep ahead of applying. Make sure your CV, covering letter and personal statements are the best they can be and thoroughly research the chambers you hope to apply to.
What does pupillage involve?
Pupillage is essentially on the job training where you’ll put what you’ve learned throughout your education into practice. It’s divided into two parts, the “first six”, a non-practising period, and the “second six”, a practising period. Each of these periods takes approximately six months, hence the name.
In the first six, or non-practicing period, you’ll shadow your pupil supervisor, observe cases, attend conferences, conduct legal research, write and prepare legal documents and much more.
In the second six, or practising period, you’ll get your own caseload and begin to represent clients in court, which allows you to fully hone your advocacy skills.
What happens after pupillage?
Once you’ve completed both periods you can apply for tenancy in chambers as a self-employed barrister or a permanent position as an employed barrister with an organisation. If you don’t secure tenancy after this period you’re able to take on a “third six” which offers you another opportunity to achieve tenancy.
How to find and apply for a pupillage
There’s no denying that finding a pupillage is hard work and very competitive. However, if you’re fully prepared and plan ahead you’ll put yourself in the best position possible for finding a pupillage.
We’ve already discussed the Pupillage Gateway and this is a great starting point. There you’ll find details of the available pupillages and how to apply. It’s important you research chambers too. What areas of law do they specialise in? Where are they based? Try and find out more about their workplace culture and approach to training too. It all helps you choose the best place for you and your career as a barrister.
Tailor your applications to suit the chambers you’re applying to and highlight your legal skills and knowledge. Practical experience will also help strengthen your applications. Have you competed in mooting competitions or taken part in pro bono work? Would you consider a mini pupillage? The more experience you can gain before applying for a pupillage, the greater your chances are at securing one.
What’s the difference between a pupillage and mini pupillage?
A pupillage, which we’ve discussed above, is a period of formal training. Mini pupillages are simply short placements and allow you to get an idea of what working as a barrister might be like. They’re much shorter than an actual pupillage, with mini pupillages lasting anywhere from a single day to a couple of weeks.
Do I get paid on a pupillage?
You’ll get paid through a pupillage award, which is financial support provided by chambers throughout your pupillage. The amount can vary depending on your location, practice area and the chambers themselves, however pupillages are subject to minimum funding requirements set out by the Bar Standards Board.
Securing a pupillage will take hard work, persistence and determination, however it’s also filled with exciting opportunities to develop your advocacy skills and legal knowledge and, ultimately, help launch your career at the bar.
Find out more about becoming a barrister on our career pages.
