Applications for full-time courses are made through the Central Applications Board, a central clearing-house system. You can apply online at www.lawcabs.ac.uk. The clearing house opens in November and the closing date for full-time courses is usually the beginning of February. Applications for part-time courses are made directly to the institution.

How does it work?

The application process is similar to UCAS in that you are expected to provide all the relevant information and a personal statement covering your suitability and motivation for the course and a legal career. A good application and academic reference will clearly improve your chances of getting a place, particularly if you are applying to smaller or more popular courses.

Check whether the institution allocates places mainly to first-choice applicants, as there is little point wasting an application that is unlikely to be considered. Also include other information that might be relevant (eg you need to attend the institution because it’s near to home) as this will help them make a decision.

Completing the form

As well as providing information about your qualifications and experience, you need to produce a personal statement outlining your suitability for the course. As you will be studying a new discipline, clear evidence of your transferable skills will strengthen your application. Consider the following:

• can you show that you are willing and able to use and adapt your existing skills to studying law?
• can you show self-discipline and an ability to achieve results?
• can you provide evidence of research undertaken in support of your application?
• can you demonstrate enthusiasm and commitment for what will be an intensive and demanding course?

Remember, your CPE/GDL application is a first-stage rehearsal for subsequent job applications. You may be applying for training contracts with large firms in parallel with the CPE/GDL application, so it is vital that you are convincing.