What should I study for A Level to become a barrister?
You do not need to study law at A Level or even at university – study subjects you enjoy and excel in. Becoming a barrister is competitive so get the best qualifications you can to give you the highest chance of success.
A levels are a great time to experience public speaking, debating and to start applying for work experience. Academic ability and strong communication skills are vital to becoming a barrister.
Which degree should I do to become a barrister?
You can study an undergraduate degree in law or another subject plus a conversion course. Frequently chosen subjects include history, politics, economics and foreign languages – but the most important thing is that you choose a subject that interests you. In your law degree or non-law degree and conversion course, you must achieve a minimum of a 2:2 to move on to the next stage (find out more about this: I am a university student or graduate).
What does doing a law conversion course entail?
If you study a subject other than law at university, you must then complete a conversion course to become a lawyer. This is known as a Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL). It can be done full or part-time and will come at an additional cost. Some providers allow you to complete a joint GDL and Master of Laws (LLM) which will allow you to receive funding from Student Finance England or Wales.
Top tips:
- Get a good understanding of what barristers, solicitors and other legal professionals do – so you’re aware of your career options and how you’ll get there
- Develop skills like debating, public speaking and communicating – you can do this by joining your school’s debate team, giving presentations or speaking at assembly
- Gain what experience you can – don’t panic if you don’t have legal work experience, gain what experience you can – you’ll be developing transferable skills. Your part time job, hobbies or work experience in other sectors will help you develop skills that will be useful later
- Watch local court proceedings – if you’re over the age of 14, you can go to your local court to watch proceedings from the public gallery to develop your understanding of the legal system
What experience would help me become a barrister?
The following work experience and opportunities will help you gain insight into a career at the Bar and the law more generally.
Aspiring Professionals Programme
Social Mobility Foundation
The Social Mobility Foundation’s free Aspiring Professionals Programme will support you from year 12 onwards by offering mentoring, skills sessions and career workshops, support with university applications and internships with employers.
Bar Mock Trials
Young Citizens
If you’re 15 to 18 years old, you can take part in the annual Bar Mock Trial Competition where you will gain an understanding of how the justice system works, be encouraged to think critically, build arguments and oracy skills.
Debate Mate
Debate Mate offers a 17-week programme, after-school clubs, national competitions, and workshops to help students enhance their debating and public speaking skills.
Griffin Access Programme
Gray's Inn
Gray’s Inn’s Griffin Access Programme includes a summer school as well as knowledge and skills workshops.
InnSight Days
Lincoln's Inn
The InnSight Days involve watching a presentation about the Inn and hearing a talk from a barrister or recent student. You are welcome to bring a guest, or you can attend as group.
Insight Events
Inner Temple
Inner Temple offers a variety of insight events to help you understand what a career at the Bar looks like.
Open Days
Middle Temple
Middle Temple offers tours and open days for Sixth Form students. You will hear from experienced barristers and students to find out all about Bar training and a career at the Bar.
Pathways to Law Programme
Sutton Trust
This Sutton Trust programme will help you secure work experience opportunities, skills workshops, information sessions, mentoring, networking and summer residential opportunities.