The LexRoute journal
SQE1 changes in 2027.
The January 2027 SQE1 format explained: 170 questions per FLK, 85 per session and new subject groups.
From January 2027, SQE1 will have 170 questions per FLK, split into two sessions of 85. The time allowed for each session stays at 2 hours 33 minutes. The new format applies to first-time candidates and resitters.
Published 23 September 2026 · Checked against the SRA announcement and assessment specification · By LexRoute Team
SQE1 before and from January 2027
| Feature | Before January 2027 | From January 2027 |
|---|---|---|
| Questions per FLK | 180 | 170 |
| Questions per session | 90 | 85 |
| Questions across SQE1 | 360 | 340 |
| Time per session | 2 hours 33 minutes | 2 hours 33 minutes |
| Subject allocation | All FLK subjects could appear in either session | Specified subject groups for each session |
The SRA says the changes respond to candidate feedback. Subject weightings in the assessment blueprint remain unchanged, as does the testing of Ethics and Professional Conduct throughout the assessment. Read the SRA announcement of 10 September 2026.
Which subjects appear in each session?
FLK1 · Session 1
- Business Law and Practice
- Dispute Resolution
- Legal Services
FLK1 · Session 2
- Tort
- Contract Law
- Legal Systems, including constitutional, administrative and EU law
FLK2 · Session 1
- Wills and the Administration of Estates
- Solicitors Accounts in the wills context
- Trusts Law
- Land Law
FLK2 · Session 2
- Property Law and Practice
- Solicitors Accounts in the property context
- Criminal Liability
- Criminal Law and Practice
Questions within each session remain mixed rather than appearing in separate subject blocks. Ethics can arise in any session. SQE1 continues to assess the application of legal knowledge at newly qualified solicitor level. Check the current SRA assessment specification.
What does this mean for revision?
Our practical suggestion is to practise in 85-question sessions using the correct subject group. Keep reviewing the full syllabus. Fewer questions do not establish that the assessment is easier.
Allow time to review why you chose an answer, especially where two options seemed plausible. The SRA’s official SQE1 assessment resources link to its specification and sample questions.
Common questions
Does the new format apply to resitters?
Yes. The SRA says it applies to all candidates from January 2027.
Are the two sessions a single FLK mock?
At LexRoute, a full FLK mock means two linked sessions, with 170 questions in total. FLK1 and FLK2 are separate assessments.
LexRoute’s SQE1 course is coming soon. See the course update. This independent summary does not replace the SRA’s instructions; check its latest guidance before booking or sitting an assessment.