Frequently Asked Questions

You can read the answers to our most frequently asked questions here, such as what help is available whilst studying one of our Legal Secretary courses or whether you can study overseas.

If you have a query which is not covered, please do not hesitate to contact us by telephone or email: 

Telephone: 0207 1009210 

Email: info@institutelegalsecretaries.com.

We are happy to answer any queries you have. We can also advise you on the best step to take in your career. ILSPA's team is friendly and happy to help.

You can read our Student Terms and Conditions here.

Are there any age restrictions to do ILSPA's courses?

We have a wide range of Students studying our courses, from school leavers who want to start their careers to mature people who want to change their careers.

Are there any examinations for the course?

ILSPA's Legal Secretaries Diploma course is assessed through coursework which consists of multiple-choice achievement tests and practical assessments or assignments, depending on the study areas. All coursework can be completed online through our learning management system.

Can I do the Legal Secretaries Diploma course if my typing skills are not very good?

You are welcome to enrol for the course, but it is also advisable to improve your typing skills at the same time. A good typing speed is essential to gain employment as a Legal Secretary. There is a good free typing skills platform which we can recommend. You will also be able to advance your typing skills through the practical assessments in our course.

Can I enrol for the Legal Secretaries Diploma course without any legal experience?

We have a wide range of Students with varying levels of experience. The course is designed for those who have no previous experience in law and will provide you with the legal knowledge and practical legal skills you need to work as a Legal Secretary. The course is also suitable for those who have an existing knowledge of law and want to gain a professional qualification.

Can I get a UK Student visa for ILSPA's course in London?

As our course is part-time and equivalent to a level 3 qualification, it does not meet the visa requirements. We do, however, offer online classes which are very beneficial for those who live outside London and in other parts of the world. 

Can I get help with the course if I study by distance learning?

You have access to help and support throughout your studies. You can submit your queries online and a member of of team will respond as soon as possible.

Can I secure a Legal Secretary job without prior experience

Many of our Students haven't had any previous experience in law and secure employment on the strength of the Legal Secretaries Diploma qualification. It is very comprehensive and provides you with the legal knowledge and practical skills to be a competent Legal Secretary. Some of our Students even secure jobs before they have finished their studies as recruiters are aware of the value of the course. The important thing to keep in mind is everyone has to start at the beginning. Every experienced Legal Secretary was once inexperienced, in the same position as you. There are a wide variety of Legal Secretary positions available such as junior, trainee and those that require someone with good secretarial skills and a recognised Legal Secretary qualification.

Can I study the Legal Secretaries Diploma course if I don't live in the UK?

We have Students studying online by distance learning throughout the world. They study the course to secure employment in the UK, work in international law firms or because their countries are based on the common law legal system.

Can I study the course if English is not my first language?

Yes, provided that your spoken and written English is of a good standard. 

Do I need any qualifications to study the Legal Secretaries Diploma course?

There are no specific qualifications that you need to have in order to study our course. We advise that you have a good standard of spoken and written English, are computer literate, have a good typing speed and an understanding of Microsoft Word.

Do I need to buy any books or equipment for the Legal Secretaries Diploma course?

You will find everything you need to do the course online. We provide all the study material and coursework. You will just need a computer to access our website and do your coursework.

How can I pay for the course fees if I am on a low income?

We offer Students the chance to pay their course fees by affordable monthly instalments.  There is no interest charged.

How many Students attend the live online classes?

We usually have a class of up to 20 Students.

How many UCAS points is the course worth?

The Legal Secretaries Diploma course is a vocational qualification designed to help people secure employment in the legal field. As such, our qualification does not equate to UCAS points for those wanting to study at University. However, we can provide references to Universities, and our qualification has helped many Students gain acceptance.

Is the Legal Secretaries Diploma a recognised qualification?

Our Legal Secretaries Diploma course is well recognised by law firms and legal recruiters throughout the country.  Law firms very much value the qualification on people's CVs when they apply for roles. They also enrol their Secretaries on our courses to further their legal knowledge and skills. ILSPA is recommended by the National Careers Service as well as many other career related organisations.

Is the Legal Secretaries Diploma course suitable for law graduates?

We have many law graduates studying our course to gain the practical legal skills they need in order to work in law firms, which are not covered in a law degree.  The course will help you get your foot in the door and provide a solid foundation for career advancement.

Is the qualification different if I study by distance learning?

You receive the same qualification whether you study by online by distance learning or through the live online classes. The certificate you receive having completed the course will make no distinction as to how you studied. Both study methods hold equal worth.

What level is the Legal Secretaries Diploma?

The Legal Secretaries Diploma course is very comprehensive and equivalent to a level 3 qualification.  

What salary can I expect as a Legal Secretary?

The salaries for Legal Secretaries can vary dramatically depending on the responsibilities of the position, the area of the country that the employment is based in and the type of company you work for. Salaries in London can start at around £20,000 a year, with up to £45,000 a year being paid to highly experienced Legal Secretaries.  The more experience you gain, the higher salary you can achieve. There are excellent opportunities for career advancement as a Legal Secretary. You can get a good idea of salaries in your area by looking at our Legal Secretary Jobs board.

When I pass the course, will I be able to work as a Legal Secretary?

When you have passed the course, you will be a qualified Legal Secretary. ILSPA's Legal Secretaries Diploma qualification will show recruiters that you have the legal knowledge and practical skills required for a Legal Secretary role. If you need assistance in finding a job, we can provide you with CV help and guidance to secure employment.