Hey, not Jessica but I imagine this may be considered on a case-by-case basis. I know that some firms offer interest free loans to everyone too.Hi @Jessica Booker,
If a firm stipulates that all future trainees should do the SQE together (in-person) at BPP or ULaw London (depending on who they have partnered with), and they offer a maintenance grant worth X (e.g., £20,000), is it ever possible for firms to offer additional financial support to people who live very far from London AND are from a socially mobile background? It seems that most firms offer a standard maintenance grant to all future trainees, which doesn’t take into account personal or financial circumstances?
Do you know of any instances where city law firms have offered additional support, either as a grant/bursary or interest-free loan? How do firms deal with future trainees of a particular faith or religion, where they can’t take out on an interest-based loan from student finance, due to their religious beliefs? Also, is it true some firms request their future trainees to not work part time whilst studying the SQE? If so, how do people usually survive in London (I don’t really know how expensive London is but I have heard it is really bad, especially rent prices)?
Apologies for the long question. 🥲🥲
However, when it comes to grants, do consider the fact that the firm may expect you to be able to live for a year without issues if the maintenance grant is £20,000 (which isn't taxed). It is possible, from what I have seen, to maintain a minor part-time job (eg 10-15 hrs a week) while doing the SQE. The firm will take these factors into account.