The qualifying test is a multiple-choice test, usually made up of two parts:
- situational judgement test
- critical analysis test
For non-legal exercises, the qualifying test usually includes only situational judgement.
Situational judgement test
In this test, you’ll be given a series of situations like those you might face in the role. For each situation, you’ll be shown several possible actions.
You’ll need to choose:
- the most appropriate action
- the least appropriate action
This test assesses at least three skills and abilities:
- Communication Skills (CS)
- Personal Qualities (PQ)
- Effective Working (EW)
Each role has its own competency framework, which you can find on the vacancy information page.
Critical analysis test
In this test, you’ll be given a written document – for example, a speech or a judgment – followed by a set of questions and possible answers.
You’ll need to use critical analysis and logical reasoning skills to choose the correct answers.
The test assesses at least two skills and abilities:
- Legal Skills
- Dealing with Information
Taking the qualifying test
We will contact you before the test day to tell you which tests you are required to complete. You will need to start and complete the tests during that time.
You can choose which part to do first: the situational judgement test or the critical analysis test.
We will contact you before the test day to provide you with all the instructions you need. You will need to start the tests after 7am on the day of the test and complete them before 9pm on that day.
Each part of the test is timed, and you will have 50 minutes to complete each part. Your answers will then be submitted automatically.
Find out more about accessing the qualifying test.