School and college students

You must study an undergraduate degree in law or another subject plus a conversion course (known as the Graduate Diploma in Law or GDL). When deciding what to study, you should consider:

1. Funding. There are scholarships available, but you will need to think about how you would fund an additional year of study, as you typically can’t get a traditional student loan for the conversion course.
2. Future practice area. Certain practice areas may suit different degrees. For example, a science degree would be very helpful if you would like to practice in Intellectual Property. You should consider how your future practice might benefit from a specific degree subject.
3. Your interests. Ultimately, you should choose a subject which you enjoy and in which you will succeed. If you study a subject which you are passionate about, you can talk about it in your applications and interviews.

Generally, chambers only host university students in their second and third years, so it is unlikely that you will get work experience at the Bar (also known as 'mini-pupillages') before you go to university. If you are a state-educated sixth-form or college student, you can apply for the Bar Placement Scheme. You should focus on developing your debating and public speaking skills. You may also be able to get voluntary experience in a legal charity or similar.