Kaplan Partners with Pearson VUE To Deliver QLTS Exam For Overseas Lawyers

Global education company Kaplan has entered into a new partnership with computer-based testing (CBT) leader Pearson VUE to deliver the first part of the Qualified Lawyers Transfer Scheme (QLTS) exam globally.

Kaplan is the sole authorised provider for the Solicitors Regulation Authority (SRA) of the QLTS assessments.  They provide a route for lawyers from other jurisdictions and barristers of England and Wales to become solicitors of England and Wales. The QLTS comprises two exams: the Multiple Choice Test (MCT) and the Objective Structure Clinical Examination (OSCE). Until now candidates have had to travel to London to take the exams. But now Kaplan, in partnership with Pearson VUE, will run the MCT test online and worldwide.  Candidates will still have to travel to London to take the OSCE.

Peter Houillon, CEO, Kaplan Professional, said: “The MCT content remains unchanged. Relying on Kaplan’s expertise and Pearson VUE’s highly secure test environment, the exam will continue to provide an extremely rigorous and psychometrically sound assessment of applied legal knowledge.

This new partnership with Pearson VUE will reduce unnecessary barriers to entry into the profession for international lawyers and help to increase the global competitiveness of the English and Welsh jurisdiction.

Julie Brannan, SRA Director of Education and Training, said: “We welcome the introduction of computer-based testing for the QLTS. It will further enhance the security procedures for the assessment, will reduce travel and accommodation costs for international and UK candidates based outside London and reduce any barriers for a wider range of people hoping to qualify as English and Welsh solicitors through this route.

Bob Whelan, managing director of Pearson VUE, added: “This new agreement with Kaplan will have a positive impact on the lives and careers of those practicing law around the world.

The MCT exam will now be available in the USA, Asia, India, and Europe. Registration with Kaplan opens this week.

About Kaplan
Kaplan is a leading education provider operating in more than 30 countries, offering professional education, test preparation, English-language training, university preparation, and higher education. Kaplan is a subsidiary of Graham Holdings Company (NYSE: GHC) and its largest division.