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EduSCOT
Law & Business

How to Become a Solicitor in Scotland

Advise clients on legal matters and represent them in courts and tribunals across Scotland.

English is the only required Higher

LNAT required at Glasgow only

AAAAA typical at Edinburgh

7 years to qualify as solicitor

Highers You Need

Typical entry: ABBB–AAAAA at Higher. You also need English (C) and Maths (C) at National 5.

Required Highers

  • English

Route to Qualification

Degree: LLB (Bachelor of Laws) (4 years at university).

1

LLB (4 years)

4 years

2

Diploma in Professional Legal Practice (1 year) + traineeship (2 years)

3 years post-LLB

Scottish Universities Offering This Course

Scottish-domiciled students can apply through UCAS and have tuition fees funded by SAAS.

  • University of Edinburgh
  • University of Glasgow
  • University of Aberdeen
  • University of Dundee
  • University of Strathclyde
  • Robert Gordon University

Professional Registration

To practise as a Solicitor in Scotland, you must register with the Law Society of Scotland (LSS). Registration is required by law and must be maintained through continuing professional development.

Salary in Scotland

Starting salary

£28,000–£45,000

Newly qualified

Mid-career salary

£45,000–£75,000

5–10 years experience

Trainee solicitor salary varies widely by firm type and sector. City commercial trainee rates (Edinburgh/Glasgow) are at the top of the range.

EduSCOT note

Scottish law is distinct from English law — LLB from a Scottish university qualifies you in Scots law. Admission to the English bar requires a separate conversion.

Subject choice guide

Planning your S3 or S5 Highers with Solicitor in mind? Read the detailed guide.

Subject choices for Solicitor

Frequently Asked Questions

What Highers do you need to become a Solicitor in Scotland?▾
To become a Solicitor in Scotland, you typically need Higher English. The typical grade offer is ABBB–AAAAA. You also need English (C) and Maths (C) at National 5 level.
Which Scottish universities offer LLB?▾
The following Scottish universities offer routes into Solicitor careers: University of Edinburgh, University of Glasgow, University of Aberdeen, University of Dundee, University of Strathclyde, Robert Gordon University. Scottish-domiciled students are eligible for tuition fee funding through SAAS.
How long does it take to become a Solicitor in Scotland?▾
The main degree route takes 4 years. Alternative routes include: Diploma in Professional Legal Practice (1 year) + traineeship (2 years) (3 years post-LLB). After completing the degree, registration with Law Society of Scotland (LSS) is required before you can practise.
What is the salary for a Solicitor in Scotland?▾
Starting salary for a Solicitor in Scotland is typically £28,000–£45,000. Mid-career salary is typically £45,000–£75,000. Trainee solicitor salary varies widely by firm type and sector. City commercial trainee rates (Edinburgh/Glasgow) are at the top of the range.
Is there an apprenticeship route to becoming a Solicitor in Scotland?▾
There is currently no Graduate Apprenticeship route for Solicitor in Scotland. The standard route is the LLB (4 years).
Does SAAS cover tuition fees for Solicitor degrees in Scotland?▾
Scottish-domiciled students studying LLB at a Scottish university are eligible for SAAS (Student Awards Agency Scotland) tuition fee funding. For 4-year undergraduate degrees, SAAS covers tuition in full. Professional or postgraduate stages (such as a Diploma in Legal Practice or pre-registration year) may not be covered — check the SAAS website for your specific course.