What is the CGQ?

The CILEX Graduate Qualification is an entry point for the CILEX Professional Qualification that is designed specifically for UK law graduates.

If you have already completed a UK law degree or a law conversion course, CGQ enables you to fast-track onto CPQ Advanced stage, taking into account and reflecting your previous educational experience.

On completion of the CGQ, you will achieve CILEX Lawyer status in your chosen specialism.

Who can apply?

The CGQ is suitable for those who have completed a UK LLB/qualifying law degree or a GDL/law conversion course.

It is not suitable for those who have obtained overseas law degrees, or those who have non-law degrees. 

If you don't have a UK LLB/QLD, you are eligible for the CPQ Foundation Stage.

What will I study?

As a CILEX Lawyer, you qualify with practice rights in one (or more) specialist area of law.  The CGQ consists of two stages and the modules you study will vary depending on your chosen specialism. 

Here’s an indicative guide of the modules you will study depending on your chosen pathway.

CILEX Graduate Qualification Stage 1

This comprises:

• three compulsory modules;
• one optional module in your chosen specialist area;
• two Ethics & Professional Responsibility e-learning modules.

No Professional Experience is required.

CILEX Graduate Qualification Stage 2

This comprises:

• a Professional Skills project;
• one optional module in your specialist area;
• Professional Experience.

How will I be taught?

You will be taught through a blended learning approach, enabling you to study in the way that suits you.

Alongside e-books, you’ll have access to online seminars, tutorials, lectures and hot topic sessions. 

This means that CGQ can be done while you are working, enabling you to earn while you learn!  

How much does it cost?

If you are looking to achieve CILEX Lawyer status, the CGQ costs from around £6,700 (depending on exemptions and advocacy) and can be paid in stages as you progress through the qualification.

This fee consists of an annual membership fee, assessments and teaching. The LawCAB application fee is separate to this.

Please note: If you are specialising in civil, criminal or family litigation, you will need to complete the advocacy course, delivered by CILEx Regulation. Fees can be found on the CILEx Regulation site here. 

How do I apply for CGQ?

Applications for the CILEX Graduate Qualification (CGQ) can only be made via LawCAB.

To apply, register on LawCAB where you will then be able to create your online CGQ application form.

Full details of the CGQ application process can be found here.