Foreign university/ college graduate (Level 7 minimum)

Group of students sitting in a lecture theatre

This route to Becoming a Solicitor applies if you hold a qualification awarded by a recognised university/ college other than Ireland, Northern Ireland, England, Wales or Scotland.  Your qualification must be equivalent to Level 7 or above on the Irish National Framework of Qualifications (INFQ).

Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 1

STEP 1

 

Preliminary Examination exemption application

You may apply for exemption from the Preliminary Examination.  If you do not obtain this exemption, you will need to sit and pass the Preliminary Examination before you may sit the Final Examination - First Part (FE-1).
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 2

STEP 2
 

Final Examination – First Part (FE-1) 

The Final Examination – First Part (FE-1) is the entrance examination to the Law Society of Ireland's Professional Practice Course (PPC) for training to become a solicitor.
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 3

STEP 3
 

 

Training Contract

After completing the FE-1, you will need to find a solicitor to train you and enter into a Training Contract.
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 4

STEP 4
 

PPC

The Professional Practice Course (PPC) at the Law Society of Ireland is designed to prepare you for work as a solicitor. It is available as an in-person full-time course or a part-time hybrid course.
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 5

STEP 5
 

In-office training

Upon completing the Professional Practice Course (PPC) trainee solicitors are required to complete two years of in-office training.
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 6

STEP 6
 

Admission to the Roll Of Solicitors

When you have successfully completed your PPC examinations and your in-office training you may apply to have your name entered on the Roll of Solicitors.
Orange chevron pointing down indicating Step 7

STEP 7
 

Practising Certificate

It is the statutory responsibility of each solicitor to ensure that they have a Practising Certificate (PC) in force before providing legal services of any kind whatsoever. After admission to the Roll of Solicitors, you can apply for your PC.