Bar Vocational Studies (BVS)

Entry requirements

For the full-time and part-time routes:

The minimum entry requirement is an undergraduate degree classified as not less than a lower-second class honours (2:2) or equivalent. This can be either a law degree or a non-law degree plus further graduate/postgraduate study in Law and in either case must cover the seven foundations of legal knowledge and satisfy the Professional Statement competence. The Bar Standards Board can advise on non-standard qualifications.

Bar Course Aptitude Test (BCAT)

In July 2022, the BSB confirmed that the BCAT is no longer a requirement for entry onto the Bar training course. Students starting the course in September 2022 and future applicants for the Bar Vocational Studies course are not required to take the BCAT.

Inn membership

Applicants to the Bar Vocational Studies Course must also apply for membership of one of the four Inns of Court by the last working day of May. The Inns of Court have well-established scholarship schemes, with closing dates on the first Friday in November of the year preceding study. These deadlines may be subject to change.

For further details please check the website of the Inn you wish to join.

Months of entry

September

Course content

Our Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) programmes allow you to be called to the Bar. Our full-time, part-time and two-part options offer you a choice a combination of learning methods and routes depending on your requirements and learning style.

You can tailor the course to your interests with a wide range of elective modules, informed by research and taught by experts in the subject. You will receive training in our outstanding new facilities in the Sebastian Street building and be part of a most diverse and welcoming community. Study at a truly comprehensive Law School in the heart of London and benefit from our international networks and partnerships.

We have a strong record of students gaining pupillage thanks to our excellent Pupillage Advice Service. The expertise and experience of our staff ensures students get a high quality education by having a mix of practitioners and educators. This is supported by regular contact and support from personal tutors.

The City Law School offers a range of Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) programmes to suit your needs. Designed for flexibility and accessibility, you can choose from the full-time, part-time or two-part programme. You can also select one of three qualifications to study towards.

The Vocational Component is accredited by the Bar Standards Board. The BSB sets out the education and training requirements for becoming a barrister, which means once you graduate, and provided you complete the Inns qualifying sessions, you are qualified for Call to the Bar.

Our routes:

Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) - Full-time:

This face-to-face learning option offers you a high level of interaction with tutors, professionals and peers. You will have the benefit of working in small study groups, simulated courtroom environments and have a choice of three different routes.

Bar Vocational Studies (BVS) - Part-time:

This two-year course is structured to enable you to manage the workload alongside work and other commitments. You will cover the same material as students on the full-time course, but the learning is spread over two years with teaching one day per week every fortnight.

The Vocational Component is accredited by the Bar Standards Board. The BSB sets out the education and training requirements for becoming a barrister, which means once you graduate, and provided you complete the Inns qualifying sessions, you are qualified for Call to the Bar.

Fees and funding

Please visit: https://www.city.ac.uk/about/schools/law/courses/postgraduate/bar-training