Gawie le Roux Institute of Law lecturer, Johan van Stade, has answered some frequently asked questions about the competency-based exams.
How can I get information about the venue and other logistical details urgently if I need to travel to write my exams?
As soon as you register you will receive confirmation about the venue where the examination will be taking place. If this information is not forthcoming you can contact your regional Legal Practice Council (LPC) office and request assistance. Alternatively, you can send an e-mail to helpdesk
lpc.org.za for assistance.
Where can I find the most up-to-date syllabus for the board exams?
You can access the syllabus here.
Do I need to pass all four papers in one sitting?
It is not a requirement at all to write all four examinations in one sitting. Most candidates like to split the four exams into two separate sittings, by writing Paper 1 and 2 in the first sitting and then writing Paper 3 and 4 in the next sitting. These splits can be done in any manner or even reduced to one exam per sitting.
The Gawie le Roux Institute of Law offers Attorneys’ admission exam courses for all four papers. You can choose any combination of dates for the Papers that you want to write each semester. We offer Zoom lectures during the week (see the website for dates and times), recordings of those online lectures, or self-study.
What am I allowed to take into the examination hall?
It is important to note that you will only be allowed to take certain items into the examination hall. This includes:
• multiple black and blue pens in case one fails
• a calculator as you will not be allowed to use your phone or borrow one
• a pencil
• an eraser
• a ruler
• your stationery has to be in a transparent pencil case or bag
• you will not be allowed to take any notes with you
What is the correct procedure when crossing out an answer?
You are not allowed to use Tippex in the exam. If you realise that you have made a mistake, the proper procedure is to draw a horizontal line through the section with the mistake and re-write the correct information.
Can I be penalised for writing rough work on the left-hand side of your answer sheet?
Only write your answers on one side of the page (the lined, right-hand side of the page).
Is there a dress code for the exam?
The dress code is office-appropriate, however, if you wear casual clothes, you will not be refused entry. Note that hats, caps, and beanies are not allowed.
Tip: Dress the part. Looking good leads to feeling good and will give you much-needed confidence to ace your exam.
What is the dress code for the oral exam?
The dress code for the oral exam is office formal in other words the same clothes you would wear to court.
How do I dispute my mark or request a remark?
There is no formal avenue available to dispute your marks, however, you are allowed to request a remark at a nominal fee. The procedure to apply for a remark will be set out by the LPC as soon as the marks are released.
How long does it take for the marks to be released?
Due to the volume of candidates who write these exams, it takes about 3 months for the LPC to release the marks.
How do I check if someone is an admitted attorney?
The easiest way to establish if someone is an admitted attorney is to search the LPC database on their website using the practitioner’s full name and surname as well as their unique LPC member number. Alternatively, you can request the practitioner to send you a copy of their admission court order.
You may also be interested in:
Preparing for your CBE
How to beat test anxiety
Pitfalls to avoid when studying for the Attorneys’ admission exams
How to prepare for your competency-based oral exam
The long walk to admittance – getting your application in order
Last updated on 18 February 2025.