SQE2 Oral Exams: Transitioning from Written to Oral Assessments

Before turning to the oral exams, many candidates benefit from taking a short break to rest and reset mentally. The written and oral components of SQE2 require different skills, and allowing yourself some space between them can help you approach the next stage with greater clarity and focus.

The SQE2 oral exams present a fresh challenge, and it is important to approach them positively. A significant proportion of marks remain available at this stage, and strong performance in the oral assessments can materially affect overall results.

Focus on the attendance note

One area that candidates may wish to prioritise when preparing for the oral exams is the attendance note. In practice, this is often one of the more demanding aspects of the oral assessments, and historically it is an area where candidates tend to score less strongly. This is particularly important given that the attendance note carries substantial weighting within the combined interview and attendance note assessment.

It is important to remember that the attendance note is not a record of what was discussed during the client interview. That function is served by your handwritten interview notes, which should be attached and clearly cross-referenced.

Instead, the attendance note should set out the legal advice you would give to the client, having had time to reflect on their instructions and the relevant law. It should be structured, analytical, and focused on advising the client appropriately, rather than reproducing the conversation itself. Approaching the attendance note in this way helps ensure it reads as a professional piece of legal work, which is what the assessment is designed to test.

Final thoughts

Transitioning from the written to the oral SQE2 exams requires a shift in mindset and preparation. With rest, focus, and a clear understanding of what each assessment is testing, candidates can approach the oral exams with confidence and structure.