The UK government has announced significant changes to the funding of Level 7 apprenticeships, which will come into effect in 2026. This decision will have a major impact on the popular Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship, as funding for most learners aged 22 and over will be withdrawn. As a result, the apprenticeship will only be available to those aged 16-21, leaving many aspiring solicitors seeking alternative routes to qualification.
Final Chance to Secure Funding: Datalaw’s December 2025 Cohort
Despite the impending changes, there is still a narrow window of opportunity for individuals of all ages to secure funding for their Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE). Leading legal training provider Datalaw has announced one final cohort for the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship, which will close before Christmas. This cohort is open to all applicants, regardless of age, providing a last chance to have your SQE exams funded through this route.
It is crucial to act now and submit your application to Datalaw as soon as possible to secure your place in this final cohort. Places are expected to fill up quickly, so don’t delay in taking this important step towards your legal career.
Alternative Routes: Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship and More
For those who miss out on the final Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship cohort or are looking for alternative pathways, Datalaw has developed several options to help you achieve your goals:
- Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship: This apprenticeship allows you to specialise in a specific area of law while working towards becoming a qualified Chartered Legal Executive. Upon completion, you can progress to become a partner, judge, or even a solicitor with additional qualifications.
- Self-Funded SQE: If you are unable to secure an apprenticeship, you can still pursue the SQE route by self-funding your exams and training. Datalaw offers comprehensive SQE preparation courses to help you succeed in this challenging qualification.
Next Steps and Resources
To help you navigate the changing landscape of legal education, here are some key steps to take and resources to explore:
- Apply for Datalaw’s final Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship cohort by visiting pages.datalawonline.co.uk/solicitor-apprenticeship-register-interest-form-page/ and submitting your interest before the December 2025 deadline.
- Research the Chartered Legal Executive Apprenticeship and other alternative routes by visiting datalawonline.co.uk/law-apprenticeship/ and speaking with a Datalaw career advisor.
- Learn more about the SQE and Datalaw’s preparation courses by visiting pages.datalawonline.co.uk/sqe-preparation-course/.
- Follow Datalaw on social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, and Facebook) for the latest news, insights, and success stories from aspiring and qualified legal professionals.
Don’t Let Defunding Derail Your Legal Career
The defunding of the Graduate Solicitor Apprenticeship may seem daunting, but it is essential to remain proactive and adapt to the changing landscape of legal education. By taking advantage of the final funded cohort at Datalaw or exploring alternative routes, you can still achieve your dreams of becoming a qualified legal professional.
Act now, stay informed, and be ready to seize the opportunities that arise. With determination and the right support, you can navigate the challenges posed by the 2026 defunding and build a successful career in law.