SQE2 Oral Exams: Managing Last-Minute Nerves

It is entirely normal for candidates to experience last-minute nerves. Even well-prepared candidates often feel anxious in the final hours before an assessment, particularly where performance takes place face to face in interviews or advocacy exercises.

While some nervousness is to be expected, unmanaged anxiety can negatively affect performance. The following reflections may help candidates approach the final stage of SQE2 in a calmer and more measured way.

1. Put last-minute preparation into perspective

The work completed in the final day before an exam is minimal when compared to the preparation undertaken over the previous months. Reminding yourself of the cumulative effort you have already put in can help counter the urge to over-revise or panic. At this stage, rest and composure are often more valuable than additional study.

2. Do not confuse stress with lack of knowledge

Struggling to recall information immediately before an exam does not mean that the knowledge is unavailable to you. Stress and heightened anxiety can temporarily interfere with memory recall. Once you are calm and focused in the exam itself, information often returns. Remaining composed—both now and during the assessment—can significantly improve recall and clarity.

3. Shift focus from yourself to the assessment criteria

It is natural to focus on perceived weaknesses when under pressure. However, it can be helpful to reframe the situation from the examiner’s perspective. Examiners do not know you, your concerns, or how you feel you have performed. They assess what is presented in front of them against the SQE2 assessment criteria. Clear, structured legal reasoning applied to the facts is what is being marked. Focusing on delivering that, rather than on self-criticism, can be grounding and effective.

4. Reduce unhelpful pressure

Although SQE2 is an important milestone, framing the exam as a life-or-death event rarely improves performance. Many candidates reflect afterwards that they placed far more pressure on themselves than was necessary. Approaching the exam with seriousness, but also with calm and perspective, can help you perform more consistently and confidently.

Final thoughts

Last-minute nerves before the SQE2 oral exams are common and do not indicate a lack of preparation. With perspective, composure, and focus on what the assessment is actually testing, candidates can give themselves the best opportunity to perform well.