If you studied a non-law degree but wish to become a lawyer, you must take a conversion course known as the graduate diploma in law (GDL). Some institutions refer to it as the common professional exam, but this is the old name and the terms are now used interchangeably.

The GDL is a one-year full-time course designed to provide non-law graduates with a diploma equivalent to a law degree. It forms the common basis for non-law graduate entry into both the solicitors' and barristers' professions. Indeed, without a law degree or the GDL you cannot become a lawyer (unless you take the non-graduate route). The course can also be taken over two years either part-time or by distance learning.

To be eligible for the GDL students must hold a degree (other than an honorary degree) from a UK institution or a foreign institution which the Solicitors Regulation Authority considers to be an equivalent. Alternatively, a student can hold academic and vocational qualifications which the Solicitors Regulation Authority deems equivalent to a degree. Another entry method is for the prospective student to be a fellow or member of the Institute of Legal Executives (and be over 25), or have gained a diploma in magisterial law. UK graduates do not need a certificate of eligibility to commence the GDL. However, overseas graduates, legal executives, those with professional qualifications equivalent to a degree, and those with a diploma in magisterial law will need to write to the Law Society with copies of their qualifications. Contact the Law Society to confirm precisely what they require to issue the certificate. Whichever way you get on the course, the GDL is an intensive, demanding programme.

As an alternative to the GDL, you can study a two-year senior status law degree, which is virtually identical in content to the GDL.

What You Learn

In effect the GDL replaces the law degree. Its content focuses on the seven foundations of legal knowledge that represent the basic knowledge requirements for the LPC. These are:

• contract;
• tort;
• criminal;
• equity and trusts;
• EU;
• property; and
• public 

The GDL is set internally by the individual institution. For full-time students, the final examination comprises a three-hour paper in each of the seven core areas. All papers will usually need to be passed on the same occasion. Although you have up to three years to complete the GDL, you will not be allowed to attempt any paper more than three times. Part-time and distance-learning GDL students must attend a recognised course which lasts two years. Exams in four foundation subjects must be passed in the first year, and the remaining three areas in the second year. Part-time and distance-learning students must complete the GDL course in not more than four years. All students successfully completing a GDL course will be awarded a diploma in law.

Where to Study the GDL

The GDL is only the first stepping stone on the way to becoming a lawyer for non-law graduates. The overriding criteria for choosing where to do the GDL should therefore be the quality of the tuition and the subsequent impact on the likelihood of getting a place on an LPC. Some institutions may even guarantee a place on the subsequent course if you pass the GDL. Remember, the GDL (apart from being an expensive addition to your knowledge!) will not be of much use unless you get onto an LPC (or BVC) course afterwards.

With this in mind, you should be looking for as much information as possible about the various institutions before applying. You should try and find out about not only the academic programme, but also any links with the profession, the level of individual career guidance, the facilities available, and any relevant extra-curricular activities. It would also be helpful to get an idea of the institution's reputation among both students and the profession.

When to Apply

You should apply for the GDL in the autumn term of your final year at university. The closing date for applications is usually mid-February. Confirmation of whether you have secured a place will follow in March/April.

How to Apply

Applications for almost all the institutions that offer the GDL are managed by the Central Applications Board. You should contact them for an application form or apply online at www.lawcabs.ac.uk.