Diversity Access Scheme frequently asked questions
1. How do I know if I’m eligible for the scheme?
Read the Diversity Access Scheme eligibility criteria (PDF 97 KB) and application guidance (PDF 370 KB) to make sure you are eligible to apply.
The scheme's purpose is to support aspiring solicitors who are from under-represented groups, face significant challenges, and/or are from lower socio-economic backgrounds who lack the financial support and professional networks needed to pursue their legal education and career.
2. Will the scheme pay for my Solicitors Qualifying Exam (SQE) assessments?
Yes, the Diversity Access Scheme award covers the cost of the SQE preparation course and assessments.
All candidates must take the SQE1 assessments in July 2026 (the year following the award).
SQE2 must be completed within two years of sitting SQE1.
3. I want to take my SQE assessments in July 2025. Can I apply to the 2025 round?
No. The 2025 funding awards will be confirmed in July and awardees must sit the SQE1 in July 2026.
4. I sat and passed SQE1, but don’t have the funding for SQE2. Can I apply?
Yes, we accept applications from students who have sat and passed SQE1, so long as they meet our application criteria.
5. I would like to do the graduate diploma in law (GDL) before starting my Legal Practice Course (LPC). Can DAS fund this?
No. The Diversity Access Scheme only provides funding for
- the LPC
- the LPC combined with LLM, or
- Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) assessments and preparation courses only
We do not provide funding for any other courses.
6. Can I do the LPC/SQE preparation course part-time?
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/SQE on a part-time basis can achieve the best balance.
7. Do I need a confirmed LPC or SQE preparation course place 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 2025/26 academic year.
For the LPC, you must start either in September or January/February.
For the SQE, you must start your SQE1 preparation by February to have enough preparation time for the July assessments.
8. Can I apply and defer my LPC/SQE start date?
No, we do not accept deferrals.
If you apply to the Diversity Access Scheme, you must be ready to start your LPC or SQE preparation course/assessments in the coming academic year.
If you are doing the SQE, you must sit the SQE1 assessments in July 2026 (about 12 months after confirmation of your funding award).
9. Can I use the funding to support my living costs during my LPC/SQE?
No. The Diversity Access Scheme award is only for LPC or SQE fees.
These fees are paid directly to your LPC or SQE provider.
DAS does not provide any living costs. You must be certain you are able to support yourself financially during study.
10. 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.
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, which may have had a negative impact on their overall degree result.
11. 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.
12. 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, email diversityaccessscheme@lawsociety.org.uk to discuss your needs so we can provide the application form in a suitable format.
13. I’m an international student. Can I apply?
No, we do not accept applications from international students.
To be eligible for the Diversity Access Scheme, applicants must live in England or Wales and plan on continuing to live in England or Wales for the duration of their studies.
14. I am qualified in another jurisdiction. Can I apply?
No, we do not accept applications from solicitors who are qualified in another jurisdiction.
15. I have a criminal conviction. Can I apply?
We strongly advise applicants who feel they may have a character or suitability issue that would affect them being granted a place on a training contract or in qualifying work experience should contact the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA).
Find out more and apply
The Diversity Access Scheme is a unique scholarship programme, designed to address key barriers to the solicitors’ profession faced by those from less advantaged backgrounds.