FAQs

How many places are available on the ‘Pathways to Law’ programme?

There are 50 places available at Bristol, Leeds, Manchester, Southampton and Warwick universities, and 150 places in London (LSE/UCL).

How competitive is it to gain a place on the programme?
In past years we have received nearly 3 applications for each place available on the programme. However, some applicants did not meet the selection criteria so we would encourage you to submit your application if you fit the criteria.

When is the application deadline?
There is no formal deadline unless stated on the How to Apply page next to the relevant universities. Once the universities have received sufficient quantities of qualified applicants, they will close their application process to new applicants. This information will be published in the ‘How to Apply’ section of this website. You are therefore recommended to submit your application as soon as possible.

What are the criteria used to judge applicants?
Successful applicants to the programme will normally satisfy most, if not all, of the following criteria:
- achieved mostly A*, A and B grades at GCSE
- will commence Year 12 AS studies (or equivalent) in September 2010
- have an interest in studying law and/or pursuing law as a career
- would be the first in their family (other than any sibling) to attend higher education
- are enthusiastic and willing to commit to the programme
- are studying at a state school
- reside within 50 miles of the University
- come from backgrounds which are relatively disadvantaged, as evidenced by:
  - estimated household income and/or socio-economic group; and/or
  - the student is receiving, or has received, free school meals; and/or
  - the Student is, or has spent significant periods, in public care

Will the ethnicity information be used as part of the selection process?
No, the ethnicity information is collected for reporting purposes only.

I’m studying at an independent school. Why can’t I apply for Pathways to Law?
The programme is designed to offer opportunities to students from under-represented backgrounds. There has been much research published regarding widening participation which has concluded that overwhelmingly these students are studying in state schools.

Can I apply for a place on the programme at any of the participating universities?
No, you should apply to the university which is closest to your term-time residence. The Pathways sessions are delivered, in the main, at the universities and they do not offer accommodation.

Can I apply to more than one of the participating universities for a place?
No, you can only apply to take part in the ‘Pathways to Law’ programme at one of the participating universities.

I live in London. Can I specify LSE or UCL on my application form?
No. Applications from London-based students will be judged by both universities, and successful applicants will be allocated a Pathways place at either LSE or UCL.

If I secure a place on the ‘Pathways to Law’ programme, will I automatically receive an offer of a place on a degree course after I’ve completed my A levels?
No, ‘Pathways to Law’ does not guarantee places at any university and the programme is not part of any ‘compact’ scheme or similar arrangement. ‘Pathways to Law’ provides advice and guidance to support your university applications, but does not involve itself in the admissions process itself.

How will information about whether I have a disability be used?
Any information you provide relating to disabilities is confidential and will be used to enable the universities to ensure that appropriate support arrangements are in place to facilitate your participation in the programme. This information is not used as part of the selection process.

How many sessions will I be expected to attend each year?
On average, there are 5-7 sessions organised each year.

Where are the sessions held?
Most sessions will take place at your host university, but some will take place at legally-related locations such as the local College of Law centre.

Do I have to attend each session?
Yes, unless you have notified the university in advance and/or have a valid reason for non-attendance.

What time commitment is expected of me?
The sessions vary in length from university to university, but as a rough guide you should expect sessions to last 3-4 hours each. You will be notified in advance of the sessions to aid your planning.

Are refreshments provided at the sessions?
This will depend on the type of session, and the timing of the session. For exmple, you should expect to receive a sandwich lunch if you are attending a session which runs from 10am to 2pm.

How much does it cost?
The programme is free, provided through generous financial support from the College of Law, the Sutton Trust and leading organisations from the legal profession: Allen & Overy, Clifford Chance, DLA Piper, Eversheds,
Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer, Hogan Lovells, The Law Society, Linklaters, Mayer Brown, Simmons & Simmons.

Does Pathways cover my travel costs?
Yes, your travel expenses to and from your ‘host’ university for events are paid (you will need to keep receipts) and in some cases transport is provided. If events take place elsewhere, such as at the local College of Law, then your travel will be coordinated by your university.

What’s ementoring?
The ementoring is an important and compulsory element of the programme as it enables you to maintain weekly contact with your mentor, who is a law student at your university, through our secure website.

Will I get paid to attend the ‘Pathways’ sessions?
No, you won't receive payment for attending the 'Pathways' sessions, except for your travel expenses.

What is included in the work placement?
You will spend at least 3 days in a law firm (which may be a local, national or international firm) interacting with staff and trainees. You’ll discover more about the law in general, and knowledge about one or two specialist areas. In many cases, you’ll work on a specific short project during your placement and may be asked to deliver a presentation at the end.

What’s the National Conference mentioned on the website?
In July, we invite all the first year Pathways students from the five university groups to join us at the University of Warwick for a 3-night residential conference. All expenses, including accommodation, food and travel, are covered by sponsorship from some of the country’s leading law firms.