Firstly, keep in mind that although there is no formal English language requirement for candidates on the Bar Transfer Test, a high standard of written and spoken English is expected of all applicants.
Secondly, for seeking approval of the BSB one must complete ‘Qualifications Committee Application Form’ and submit to ‘Bar Standards Board’ for approval. The documents to be submitted attached with the application:
- Evidence that you are of good character and repute, such as a Certificate of the Senior Judge, Attorney General or Senior Law Officer of the Superior Court in which you have practiced showing that: for a period of not less than 3 years you have regularly exercised rights of audience in that court (identifying the period(s)) and you are a fit and proper person to be Called to the Bar.
- A certificate to show that you have not been prohibited from practicing in the jurisdiction in which you are qualified on the ground of commission of a criminal offence or professional misconduct and are not currently suspended from practicing on such grounds.
- Evidence of all academic and professional qualifications. Either the originals or the certified copies. Applications with overseas qualifications must also include an official English translation of their certificates and results.
- Any other evidence which you wish to supply in support of your application.
- To apply to practice at the Bar of England and Wales, contact the Qualifications Committee at Bar Standard Board (BSB).
And finally, After having approval from the Bar Standards Board’s Qualifications Committee to take the test, you can submit your application form to BPP University, along with a copy of the certificate from the Bar Standards Board requiring you to take the test and the fees. You have to submit your application to:
Bar Transfer Test
BPP Professional Development
Fifth Boulton House
Chorlton Street
Manchester M1 3HY
Please note that applications will only be accepted in hard copy and not by email. It is permissible to send an email copy of the letter from the Qualifications Committee.