Note: The GDL has been replaced by the PGDL (Postgraduate Diploma in Law) at most providers. The conversion course now feeds into the Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) route for solicitors, and into the modern Bar training courses for aspiring barristers. References to the GDL describe the same conversion course.
The first question any aspiring lawyer must answer is simple: why do you want to practise law?
The response “because I did a law degree” is no longer enough in today’s competitive recruitment landscape. The profession values the skills and perspectives of non‑law graduates, reflected in the near 50:50 split between law and non‑law recruits at many firms. Some solicitor firms even run separate application streams and deadlines specifically for non‑law students.
Although many chambers now welcome non‑law applicants for mini‑pupillages, a minority still prefer candidates who have completed at least part of the PGDL. This means non‑law students must be proactive in building early exposure to the profession. The following practical steps will help you begin laying the foundations for a legal career before starting the PGDL.
University Careers Service
Your first stop should be your university’s careers and employment service.
Book an appointment with a careers adviser and ask targeted questions. What resources are available for researching legal careers? Do they offer mentoring or connections with trainee solicitors and pupil barristers? What law‑related events take place on campus? Is there a non‑law legal society? Do guest speakers visit? When is the Law Fair?
Find out whether your university has a specialist adviser for the law school who can offer realistic guidance.
Careers services often hold valuable resources such as The Training Contract Handbook, Chambers Student Guide, TARGETjobs Law, and SQE/Bar course provider guides. These publications help you research firms and chambers and understand the PGDL, SQE and Bar training pathways.
Law School Engagement
Explore what is happening within your university’s law school.
Law societies frequently organise trips to open days, host guest speakers and run training sessions on legal databases such as LexisLibrary and Westlaw. These skills are essential once you begin the PGDL.
There is no reason you cannot attend these events as a non‑law student, especially if the speaker represents a PGDL provider or a firm you intend to apply to. Mentioning these events in applications demonstrates initiative and genuine interest.
Connections and Networking
Consider whether you know anyone in the profession.
A distant relative who is a barrister, a family friend who is a solicitor or a neighbour who works in legal services may be willing to speak with you. Networking is central to the legal profession, and gaining insight into the daily life of someone you know can be invaluable. They may also be aware of work experience opportunities or be able to arrange informal shadowing. You will not know unless you ask.
Your Degree
Many solicitors and barristers who studied law at university often remark that they wish they had taken degrees such as English or History because of the strong communication and writing skills they develop. These subjects emphasise independent research, critical analysis and structured argument, all of which are essential for legal practice.
Even if your degree is not law‑focused, you can adapt assignments to reflect your interest in the profession.
For example, one student writing about postcolonial literature analysed the impact of the Equality Act 2010 and structured the report as a skeleton argument. Including case law and legal reasoning not only strengthened the assignment but also provided excellent material for applications and interviews.
Vacation Scheme and Mini‑Pupillage Applications
Experience is crucial for understanding the profession, but non‑law students are often unsure where to begin.
As a rule, most vacation scheme applications open around October or November and close between December and January. These applications are lengthy, so allow plenty of time.
Chambers usually schedule mini‑pupillages months in advance, so check their websites regularly. Applications may require a CV and covering letter, although many chambers now use formal application forms.
Application forms can seem daunting, but guidance is widely available. Befriending a law student can be helpful, as they often know the rhythms of legal recruitment. Techniques such as S-T-A-R (Situation, Task, Action, Result) are commonly used to structure responses to competency questions.
Social Networking
Platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram and X (formerly Twitter) are not just for personal updates.
Follow student law societies, firms and chambers you are interested in. Many now use social media to share advice and answer questions. Following prominent lawyers can also help you stay informed about legal developments. LinkedIn is particularly useful for maintaining professional connections.
Final Thoughts
Confidence is essential.
By taking these practical steps, any non‑law student can begin laying the foundations for a future in the legal profession long before starting the PGDL. Early engagement, thoughtful networking and strategic preparation will help you enter the profession with clarity and momentum.
Not sure how close you are to qualifying?
The path-fit quiz reads your situation and shows you which routes you are ready for, and exactly what to do next. Four minutes, no account needed to start.
Check your readiness