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9B: Amendments
The Bar Qualification Manual was first published on 1 April 2019. An updated and reformatted version of the entire manual was published on 9 November 2020. The table below will include details of amendments made to the Bar Qualification Manual after 9 November 2020 by section number/page title and by date. Date Section Number and Page Title Details of Amendments 17/11/2020 Part 3D - Centralised Assessments Amended link at paragraph 3 to 2020 version of standard setting technique document. 14/12/2020 Part 7A - Types of transferring lawyers Added links to new online application for transferring qualified lawyers via MyBar (para 5). 17/12/2020 Part 7A - Types of transferring lawyers Added links to new online application guidelines and amended 'valid to' dates ...
6B: Authorisation of education and training organisations
This section explains the authorisation process for prospective education and training organisations. Chambers/organisations that currently train pupils should refer to Part 6C of this Bar Qualification Manual. Bar Qualification Rules
BSB Handbook
Rule Q29 Providers of vocational training and pupillage must be authorised by the BSB as an AETO.
Rule Q30 An application to become an AETO must be made in such form and be accompanied by payment of such fee or fees as may be prescribed by the BSB.
Rule Q31 In determining an application from an applicant to become an AETO, the BSB will have regard to the Authorisation Framework and in particular the mandatory criteria. The BSB will not approve an application to become an AETO unless it is satisfied that it is:
.1 able to meet the mandatory criteria set out in the Authorisation Framework relevant to the application; and
.2 a suitable provider for the purposes of the Authorisation Framework.
Rule Q32 The BSB may grant authorisation to an AETO on such terms and conditions as it considers appropriate including the period of authorisation.
Rule Q33 The BSB may vary, amend, suspend or withdraw authorisation of an AETO in the following circumstances:
.1 the AETO has applied for such variation, amendment, suspension or withdrawal;
.2 the AETO ceases to exist, becomes insolvent or merges;
.3 the AETO fails to comply with conditions imposed upon its authorisation;
.4 the BSB is of the view that the AETO has failed or will fail to fulfil the mandatory requirements set out in the Authorisation Framework;
.5 the BSB is of the view that the AETO is not providing the training for which it was authorised to an adequate standard or there has been a material change in the training provided; or
.6 the BSB is of the view that the continued authorisation of the AETO would inhibit the Regulatory Objectives.
Rule Q34 An AETO which is dissatisfied by a decision in relation to Rule Q31 – Q33 above may apply to the BSB for a review.
2C: Completing the academic component (conversion courses)
This section includes information on requirements for completion of the academic component of training through a conversion course including the minimum standard (degree classification), time limits for completion of a conversion course, credit transfer, and progression to the vocational component. Overview 1 In order to complete the academic component of training based on a conversion course, you must: hold a UK/Republic of Ireland undergraduate degree awarded at (or above) the minimum standard; or have been granted a Certificate of Academic Standing (see Part 2D of this Bar Qualification Manual) by us. 2 If you complete a conversion course without holding a UK/Republic of Ireland degree of the required standard or a Certificate of Academic issued by us, you will not ...
2B: Completing the academic component (law degrees)
This section includes information on law degree requirements for completion of the academic component of training including the minimum standard (degree classification), time limits for completion of a law degree, credit transfer, and progression to the vocational component. Overview 1 In order to complete the academic component of training based on a law degree awarded in the UK/Republic of Ireland, you must hold a degree which meets the following requirements.
UK/Republic of Ireland Law Degrees:
- must be awarded at Level 6 (or above) of the ‘Framework for Higher Education Qualifications’, by a recognised degree-awarding body;
- must comply with the QAA Subject Benchmark Statement for Law (Nov 2019);
- must incorporate study of the foundations of legal knowledge subjects (see Part 2A of this Bar Qualification Manual);
- must be awarded at (or above) the minimum standard; and
- must not considered to be a stale qualification (see Part 2F of this Bar Qualification Manual).
2E: Exemptions from individual foundation subjects
This section includes information on obtaining exemptions from the individual foundations of legal knowledge subjects, including the types of qualifications that will or will not be accepted by us. Overview 1 The rules regarding exemption from any of the individual components of Bar training are set out in the BSB Handbook at Rules Q7-Q12 . 2 You may apply to us for exemption from the individual foundations of legal knowledge subjects which must be passed for completion of the academic component of Bar training (see Part 2A of this Bar Qualification Manual). Application – Certificate of Exemption 3 You may apply to us for exemption on a subject-by-subject basis. If the application is successful, you will be granted either: a ...
2F: Stale academic qualifications
This section includes information on the time limit for progression to the vocational component after completion of the academic component and the process to reactivate qualifications which have become ‘stale’. Overview 1 Students proceeding to the vocational component must be able to rely upon legal knowledge which is reasonably current. For this reason, both law degrees and GDL courses have a time limit after which they are regarded as ‘stale’. 2 You must start the vocational component within five years of completion of the academic component, whether by means of a law degree or GDL. The same time limit applies to any of the foundations of legal knowledge subjects passed individually following the award of a Certificate of Partial Exemption ...
3B: Bar Training Syllabi
This section includes links to download the course syllabi for the Bar Training Course. 1 The Bar Training syllabi documents are for use by Bar Training students and AETOs, and Bar Transfer Test candidates. Bar Training Criminal Litigation Syllabus 2025 (December 2024 - Blackstone's 2025 References Version) and Tracked Changes version Bar Training Criminal Litigation Syllabus 2025 (10 December 2024) Summary of changes Bar Training Civil Litigation Syllabus 2025 (September 2024 - White Book 2024 Version) and Tracked Changes version Bar Training Civil Litigation Syllabus 2025 (5 June 2024) Summary of changes 2 If you have any questions about the syllabi documents, you should contact your AETO.
3C: Centralised assessments
This section includes information on the vocational component centralised assessments including what subjects are covered by the exams, what to do before the exams and on the day of sitting, marking and results, and the results review process. Contact: [email protected] Overview 1 Vocational component centralised examinations are set on our behalf by the Central Examination Board (CEB). The CEB consists of a group of senior examiners, including experienced legal practitioners and academics. Psychometric and examination experts support the work of the CEB. 2 Centralised examinations were introduced to ensure consistency across course providers, and closer regulatory oversight of standards in knowledge subjects. The following Bar Training subjects are centrally examined: Civil Litigation and Evidence; and Criminal Litigation, Evidence and Sentencing. ...
8A: Review applications and procedures
Individuals or organisations may submit a request for review of a decision of the Bar Standards Board, and a further appeal to the High Court, in line with the Bar Qualification Rules (Rules Q35-Q40). This section includes information on requests for review of decisions of the Bar Standards Board, the Bar Council Records Office, the Inns of Court, and the Inns’ Conduct Committee (ICC). Bar Qualification Rules
BSB Handbook
Rule Q35 Where provision is made under this Section for a review by the BSB of a decision, any request for such a review must be accompanied by:
.1 a copy of any notice of the decision and the reasons for it received by the person requesting the review (“the applicant”);
.2 where the decision is a decision of an Inn or the ICC, copies of all documents submitted or received by the applicant which were before the Inn or the ICC;
.3 any further representations and evidence which the applicant wishes the BSB to take into account; and
.4 payment of such fee or fees as may be prescribed.
Rule Q36 Where the decision under review is a decision of an Inn, the BSB will invite the Inn to comment on any further representations and evidence which the applicant submits under Rule Q35.3.
Rule Q37 On a review under this Section the BSB:
.1 may affirm the decision under review or substitute any other decision which could have been made on the original application;
.2 may in an appropriate case reimburse the fee paid under Rule Q35.4; and
.3 will inform the applicant and any other interested person of its decision and the reasons for it.
Rule Q38 Where provision is made under this Section for a review of a decision by the BSB, this review may be delegated to an Independent Decision-Making Panel, where specified by the BSB.
Rule Q39 Where under this Section provision is made for a review by the BSB of a decision, no appeal may be made to the High Court unless such a review has taken place.
Rule Q40 An individual who is adversely affected by a decision of the BSB under Section B.2 may appeal to the High Court against the decision.
4L: Exemptions and waivers (pupillage/work-based learning)
This section includes information on exemptions and waivers that may be granted from part (or all) of the work-based learning component of Bar training (pupillage). Overview 1 The rules regarding exemption from any of the individual components of Bar training are set out in the BSB Handbook at Rules Q7-Q12 . 2 In addition, Rules Q13 to Q28 cover exemptions relating to: Qualified Foreign Lawyers (QFLs) Qualified European Lawyers (QELs) Registered European Lawyers (RELs) Transferring Solicitors Teachers of the law of England and Wales Individuals who have been granted rights of audience by another Approved Regulator. 3 The types of exemptions available and the application processes are explained in Parts 7B and 7C of this Bar Qualification Manual. Other variations ...
4E: Pupillage funding
All pupillages of self-employed barristers, chambers and BSB entities must be funded in accordance with the Pupillage Funding Rules in the BSB Handbook. The responsibility to fund pupils lies with the AETO. The purpose of these rules is to ensure that pupils receive a regular, minimum income throughout pupillage and it supports equality of opportunity. Other types of AETOs must abide by the National Living Wage legislation. Minimum pupillage funding requirements 1 All pupils must be paid no less than a minimum amount, specified by us. 2 The minimum pupillage award is set annually, having regard to the Living Wage Foundation’s hourly rate recommendations, which are announced in November each year. The annual increase applies from January each year to ...
2D: Certificates of academic standing
This section includes information on Certificates of Academic Standing issued by us, including when and how to apply for a Certificate. Overview 1 If you hold a degree from an institution based outside the UK/Republic of Ireland and wish to undertake the GDL for the purpose of qualification as a barrister, you must apply to us for a Certificate of Academic Standing . 2 If you hold a UK/Republic of Ireland postgraduate degree but have not obtained a UK undergraduate degree, you must also apply to us for a Certificate of Academic Standing. If you hold a UK medical, dental or veterinary degree, you should contact the Authorisations Team for further advice. 3 If you do not hold any degree ...
4C: Fair recruitment and equality and diversity
All AETOs are required to abide by the Equality Act 2010 , which includes some specific provisions in relation to recruitment of pupils. In addition, our Handbook and the Authorisation Framework have a number of requirements relating to recruitment in relation to equality and the principles of flexibility, accessibility and affordability. These are outlined in this section. Concerns raised during our consultations about Bar training and from research conducted (covering diversity , barriers to training and differential attainment in outcomes on the BPTC and in gaining pupillage , race equality and experience of women at the Bar ) highlight that access to pupillage is one of the biggest barriers to increasing diversity at the Bar. Research conducted into Pupillage Advertising and Selection ...
3A: The Bar Training Course
This section includes information on the Bar Training Course, including entry requirements, an overview of the application process, the course providers, and key statistics. Overview - entry requirements 1 Applicants for a place on a Bar Training Course must: a. have completed the academic component of Bar training (see Part 2 of this Bar Qualification Manual); b. be a member of one of the Inns of Court (see Part 5A of this Bar Qualification Manual); and c. be fluent in English. 2 Please note that AETOs may impose additional selection criteria over and above the minimum requirements specified above. Please check the website of individual AETOs for more information about their entry requirements. English language requirement 3 The Professional Statement ...
7D: The Bar Transfer Test (BTT)
This section includes information for transferring qualified lawyers on the academic and vocational assessments they may be required to complete as BTT candidates as a condition of their admission to the Bar of England and Wales. Overview 1 We have the power to exempt transferring qualified lawyers from any of the individual components of Bar training, either in full or partially. Such exemptions may be granted subject to passing certain sections of a Bar Transfer Test (BTT). 2 Formerly, the BTT comprised a series of 11 assessments split into two sections – Part A and Part B – which were designed to test the knowledge and skills required for completion of the academic and vocational components of Bar training. 3 ...
4J: Assessment of pupils and compulsory courses
This section includes information on the assessment of pupils throughout the work-based learning component (pupillage), secondments, and the compulsory courses to be completed during pupillage.
1. Using the Professional Statement to assess the competence of pupils
This section should be understood by AETOs, pupil supervisors and pupils. It covers the competences and standards that the BSB requires pupils to achieve and how they are assessed.
AETOs are required to assess pupils in line with the threshold standard and competences specified in the Professional Statement.7A: Types of transferring lawyers
This section includes information on the different types of qualified lawyer who may apply for admission to the Bar of England and Wales on the basis of prior qualification(s) and experience. Overview 1 The rules regarding exemption from any of the individual components of Bar training are set out in the BSB Handbook at Rules Q7-Q12 . 2 There are specific rules regarding exemptions granted to transferring lawyers. For details of those individuals or groups that may be entitled to Full Exemption from the components of Bar training, please see Part 7B of the Bar Qualification Manual . For details of those individuals or groups that may be entitled to Partial Exemption from the components of Bar training, please see ...
4B: Pupil Supervisors
This section sets out the requirements that AETOs must have in place for supervising pupils. It is also of interest to individuals who wish to become pupil supervisors. It covers the eligibility criteria, training requirements, and registration of pupil supervisors with us. Registered pupil supervisors 1 The role of the pupil supervisor is to provide you, as a pupil with: a suitable training programme that enables you to meet the competences in the Professional Statement to the threshold standard, in accordance with the Curriculum and Assessment Strategy ; and all necessary assistance in complying with your regulatory obligations eg registering your pupillage with us, applying for any necessary waivers and obtaining a provisional practising certificate. 2 Pupil supervisor contact time ...
6A: Overview
This section includes information on the Authorisation Framework and the definition of Authorised Education and Training Organisations (AETOs). The Authorisation Framework 1 To coincide with the introduction of the new Bar Qualification Rules, we published the Authorisation Framework . 2 All organisations seeking to offer one or more components of training for the Bar must apply to be authorised under the Authorisation Framework. 3 The purpose of the Authorisation Framework is to explain to training providers what they must do to meet our requirements to be authorised to deliver Bar training. 4 The Authorisation Framework sets out the mandatory requirements for a training provider to become an Authorised Education and Training Organisation (AETO), including adherence to the four principles of ...
6C: Authorisation of current pupillage training organisations (PTOs) as AETOs
This section explains the process for current Pupillage Training Organisations to gain authorisation as an AETO. Bar Qualification Rules
BSB Handbook
Rule Q29 Providers of vocational training and pupillage must be authorised by the BSB as an AETO.
Rule Q30 An application to become an AETO must be made in such form and be accompanied by payment of such fee or fees as may be prescribed by the BSB.
Rule Q31 In determining an application from an applicant to become an AETO, the BSB will have regard to the Authorisation Framework and in particular the mandatory criteria. The BSB will not approve an application to become an AETO unless it is satisfied that it is:
.1 able to meet the mandatory criteria set out in the Authorisation Framework relevant to the application; and
.2 a suitable provider for the purposes of the Authorisation Framework.
Rule Q32 The BSB may grant authorisation to an AETO on such terms and conditions as it considers appropriate including the period of authorisation.
Rule Q33 The BSB may vary, amend, suspend or withdraw authorisation of an AETO in the following circumstances:
.1 the AETO has applied for such variation, amendment, suspension or withdrawal;
.2 the AETO ceases to exist, becomes insolvent or merges;
.3 the AETO fails to comply with conditions imposed upon its authorisation;
.4 the BSB is of the view that the AETO has failed or will fail to fulfil the mandatory requirements set out in the Authorisation Framework;
.5 the BSB is of the view that the AETO is not providing the training for which it was authorised to an adequate standard or there has been a material change in the training provided; or
.6 the BSB is of the view that the continued authorisation of the AETO would inhibit the Regulatory Objectives.
Rule Q34 An AETO which is dissatisfied by a decision in relation to Rule Q31 – Q33 above may apply to the BSB for a review.
