21 Oct 2026
From 1 January 2027, the minimum pupillage award will rise to £26,999 in London and £24,640 outside London. The awards are set with regard to the latest Living Wage Foundation’s hourly rate recommendation.
The increase applies to all pupils, and chambers should adjust monthly payments accordingly. We also encourage organisations to apply the new rate before January where possible to support pupils facing financial pressures.
The rates in 2026 have been £25,863 for 12-month pupillages in London and £23,504 per annum for pupillages outside London.
Find out more on Pupillage Funding in Part 4E of the Bar Qualification Manual.