Diversity Access Scheme frequently asked questions

I'm committed to becoming a solicitor and would like to do the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) before commencing my Legal Practice Course (LPC). Can DAS fund this?

No. DAS provides funding for either the LPC, LPC combined with LLM or Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) assessments/preparation courses only.

We do not provide funding for any other courses.

I’d like to do the LPC on a part-time basis. Is that possible?

Yes. We accept applicants who wish to study on either a full-time or part-time basis.

We understand that many of our awardees will need to work alongside study and that doing the LPC on a part-time basis can achieve the best balance.

I’m approaching my 40s. Can I still apply?

Yes. We do not discriminate and welcome applications from aspiring solicitors of all ages who are talented, tenacious and committed to joining the profession.

Do I have to have a confirmed place on the LPC or SQE to apply?

No, you do not have to have a confirmed place when you apply.

However, if you're successful in your application, your award is conditional upon gaining a place on the LPC or SQE preparation course/assessments for the current academic year (2024/2025).

For the LPC, we specify either a September or January start.

Can I apply and defer my LPC/SQE start date?

No. We do not accept deferrals.

If you apply to DAS, you must be ready to start your LPC or SQE preparation course/assessments in the current academic year.

Can I use DAS funding to support my living costs during my LPC/SQE?

No. The DAS award is purely for LPC or SQE fees which are paid directly to your LPC or SQE provider.

DAS does not provide any living costs and therefore you must be certain you are able to support yourself during study.

Is there any academic criteria for DAS?

We do not ask for your GCSE or A-level grades.

Many firms and in-house legal teams ask for an upper second class or first class degree, and so we do ask that if you went to university and did not achieve your academic potential that you tell us why.

We understand that some students may have been studying under difficult circumstances that may have had a negative impact on their overall degree result.

I’d prefer to fill in the application form by hand. Will my application be accepted in this format?

Where possible, we ask that you fill in your application using the online form.

If that’s not possible, we ask that you use the PDF form and type in the answers.

I’m an international student. Can I apply?

To be eligible for DAS, applicants must live in England or Wales and plan on continuing to live in England or Wales for the duration of their studies.