A-Levels & University Entrance
There are no specific subjects you have to study at A-level if you want to do a law degree. It is more important that you achieve good grades. You will not be prejudiced when you apply for pupillage if you choose not to study law at university. However, if you study a non-law degree you will be required to complete a 1-year GDL (Graduate Diploma in Law) once you have graduated from university.
Entrance requirements will vary dependant on the university you are applying to and the subject you intend to study. You should research this thoroughly and apply accordingly for the courses and universities at which you are able to achieve the entrance requirements. When deciding whether or not to study law, there are a number of factors to consider, including what subjects you enjoy the most and the extra cost and extra year of study required to complete a conversion course.
If you want to study law you should start thinking about this in your lower sixth year. This is because you can take your LNAT (Law National Aptitude Test) from the September of your upper sixth year. To apply for a place at university you have to fill out a UCAS form which includes writing a personal statement. Start drafting your personal statement as early as you can, as you may find that you will complete many versions before finalising it. Ask teachers, peers and other adults to assist by offering guidance and proofreading your personal statement.
If you want to apply to Oxford and/or Cambridge, you will need to have completed your UCAS form by mid-October. If you want to apply elsewhere you have until mid-January to complete your UCAS form, however universities may start giving out offers as soon as they receive applications so it is better to get your application submitted early.
