SQE1 guide
SQE1 pass mark, explained
The SQE1 pass mark isn't fixed. It is set after each sitting through a standard-setting process, so the raw threshold moves. That's why candidates finish the exam without knowing if they've passed. Here is how the process actually works, what recent pass marks have been, and how to use our pass-mark calculator to check where you stand.
Why the pass mark isn't fixed at 50% or 60%
The SRA uses criterion-referenced standard-setting, not a fixed percentage. Each sitting is set independently, so a slightly harder paper produces a slightly lower pass mark. That way a candidate isn't penalised for sitting a harder exam window.
How standard-setting works — the modified Angoff method
A panel of qualified solicitors reviews every question and estimates the probability that a 'just-competent' candidate would answer correctly. Those probabilities are aggregated across all questions to produce the raw pass mark for that sitting. It is then adjusted for statistical reliability.
What recent SQE1 pass marks have been
Recent SRA reports show FLK1 and FLK2 raw pass marks landing between 55% and 60% (roughly 99–108 out of 180 per paper). Both papers must be passed within three attempts each. Detailed sitting-by-sitting figures are published in the SRA's assessment reports.
Use our pass-mark calculator
You can estimate whether your mock score would have passed by using our SQE1 pass-mark calculator. Enter your raw FLK1 and FLK2 scores and it applies recent standard-setting bands to show the likely outcome.
What this means for your revision
Do not target 50%. Target consistent 70%+ on timed mocks. That gives you enough cushion for the sitting-to-sitting variation and for exam-day nerves. Anything below 65% in the final month is a signal to extend your prep, not sit early.
FAQs
- What is the SQE1 pass mark?
- It varies per sitting. Recent SQE1 pass marks have been between 55% and 60% raw on each of FLK1 and FLK2.
- Is the SQE1 pass mark scaled or curved?
- It is criterion-referenced via modified Angoff standard-setting, not a fixed curve or a fixed percentage.
- Do I need to pass FLK1 and FLK2 separately?
- Yes. Each paper must be passed within three attempts. There is no compensation between them.
- What score should I target in mocks?
- Consistently 70% or more on timed full-length mocks. That leaves cushion for exam-day performance and sitting-to-sitting variation.
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