The Legal Practice Course (LPC) is a postgraduate course studied after an undergraduate degree or law conversion course. It is the next stage to qualifying as a lawyer where you will learn practical skills, including how to conduct client meetings and drafting contracts. Please be aware that changes are being made to the qualification route, with the introduction of the Solicitors Qualification Exam (SQE).
Applications for the full-time LPC course are submitted online through the Central Applications Board (CAB)
How To Apply For The LPC: Step By Step
Step by step instructions on how to apply for the LPC
- On the CAB, you’ll first need to fill out your personal details, list your qualifications, employment history, and choose up to three LPC course providers.
- You’ll need to upload documents including your degree certificate and transcripts.
- Contact details of a responsive referee is required as CAB will not send your application until your referee has submitted their reference.
- You will also be required to provide a personal statement of up to 10,000 characters detailing your reasoning for your institution of first choice, why you are applying for the course, what your interests and hobbies are, as well as your motivations and your career goals.
LPC Application Deadlines
There are no specific deadlines per se when applying for the LPC. However, it is recommended that you make your applications as early as possible to secure an LPC at your preferred institution. Applications usually open around 1 October and fill up by the end of July. Although there are no deadlines, applications may close at the discretion of each provider, which is dependent on how quick the places on the course have been taken.
Part-Time Vs Full-Time LPC Application
All full-time applications are made online via the CAB portal, whereas part-time applicants must apply directly to the institution.
LPC Application Tips
Before making an application, think about the institution at which you want to complete your studies. To make this decision, read about the quality of the course providers’ careers service, their range of electives, extra-curricular opportunities, and fees.
Regarding the application itself:
Ensure that you allow yourself enough time to make the application and have thought through the above points.
Ensure that you have good references to submit as this is important for the progress of your application (ideally, a reference from your personal tutor at university). If you cannot nominate a tutor, you should provide a reference from a recent or current employer. If this is not possible, then a regulated professional should be your last resort (teacher, doctor, lawyer). References from family members/friends are not permissible.
Regarding the personal statement, ensure you provide a well-rounded statement, including the following points:
- Why you are applying for the course
- What interests you about the course
- What motivates you
- Your future career
- Your skills and achievements
- Your hobbies
- Your work experience
By Chanpreet Kaur Manku
