Where am I?  Home > Our courses > GDL > GDL entry requirements

GDL entry requirements

  • A UK degree in any discipline, or an equivalent qualification.
    For intending barristers, this must be a minimum of a 2.2
  • Overseas graduates and mature non-graduates need to apply for a Certificate of Academic Standing from the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) (for future solicitors) or Bar Standards Board (BSB) (for future barristers)
  • A sufficient command of English is required to successfully complete the course
  • If you have a legal qualification from outside England and Wales or have studied aspects of law as part of a non-qualifying degree course, you may be exempted from certain elements of the GDL. We're happy to accept applications from exempt students, subject to Solicitors Regulation Authority / Bar Standards Board requirements. Contact the Solicitors Regulation Authority (future solicitors) or Bar Standards Board (future barristers) to find out more.

If you have completed a degree outside the UK and you do not come from a “majority English speaking country”

  • A certified copy of any document that proves that you are qualified in English at CEFR level B2 or above in each of the four components of language learning.  Providers that we would suggest you contact are:
    • IELTS (academic) - a score of 6.5 in all four areas.
    • Pearsons academic - a score of 58 in four areas.
    • TOEFL - scores in the following areas are required: Listening - 21, Reading - 22, Speaking - 23, Writing - 21. Please use code number 8340 when indicating this institution as a score recipient. Scores will be sent to you directly from Educational Testing Service.

Failure to comply with these eligibility requirements means that the College will have no option but to cancel your place on the course. It is important you check out any queries before you apply.

Full-time and S-mode selection criteria

  • Academic performance at school and university
  • Demonstration of an informed decision to study law
  • Any special circumstances revealed in your application
  • Academic or other references

Part-time (evening/day/weekend) selection criteria

  • Open access, subject to the above entry requirements

The College of Law fully complies with equal opportunities legislation and actively encourages diversity within the legal profession. Our admissions process acts fairly and aims to enable students to make the best use of their talents. You are encouraged to tell us about any special requirements at the earliest opportunity. This will allow us to discuss how we may go about meeting your requirements.

Visa Requirements

Further information for visa students

Non-EEA students requiring a visa to study should refer to the UK Border Agency Policy Guidance, which can be found on their website www.ukba.homeoffice.gov.uk. Please note that immigration regulations are subject to change at any time. Specific enquiries regarding College sponsorship of students under Tier 4 of the Points Based System can be e-mailed to visaoffice@lawcol.co.uk

It is the responsibility of all students from outside the EU to ensure you have a visa covering the full duration of your course.