Pupillage is the last step of training before you qualify as a barrister.
It tends to be in chambers and normally consists of two six-month periods, so 12 months in total. A pupil supervisor will support you during your pupillage and after the 12 months, you may be offered tenancy.
What will I need to do during pupillage?
As well as demonstrating the knowledge, skills and attributes set out in The Professional Statement during your day-to-day work as a pupil, you will also have to undertake compulsory courses and/or assessments, depending on when you start your pupillage or period of work-based learning. More information on pupillage can be found in Part 4 of the Bar Qualification Manual.
How do I apply for pupillage?
The Pupillage Gateway takes you through the process of applying for pupillage and lists all vacancies, or you can apply directly through chambers.
Note: From 1 September 2026, all pupillage registrations will be completed through an automated self-service system via the MyBar portal. Pupillage Authorised Education and Training Organisations (AETOs) can start the registration process before it is sent to you to complete.
Read about how to apply for pupillage.
When should I apply for pupillage?
You will first have to complete the academic component of Bar Training before proceeding to the vocational component (ie a Bar training course) then. You can apply for pupillage through the Pupillage Gateway in January each year. You can start setting up your account from September in the year before you intend to start pupillage.
What are the pathways to pupillage?
There are four potential pathways to pupillage:
- Academic component, then vocational, then work-based learning/pupillage;
- Academic component followed by vocational (split into two parts), then work-based learning/pupillage;
- A combined academic and vocational component, followed by work-based learning/pupillage; or
- A modular or apprenticeship model encompassing the academic, vocational and work-based learning/pupillage components.
You can read more about the four approved pathways for Bar training in our Authorisation Framework. You can direct any questions about your pupillage registration and the completion process to [email protected].
