Erinda Frantzen, senior lecturer at the Gawie le Roux Institute of Law, has answered some frequently asked questions about the LPC's conveyancing exam.
Do I need to register to write the conveyancing exam?
You need to register on the LPC's website here. The website will ask you to select your province and you will be redirected to the registration form.
Are there deadlines for registration?
Yes. The Legal Practice Council (LPC) publishes the deadlines for registration as well as the exam dates annually. Registrations close on 2 February 2024 for the first session and 2 July 2024 for the second session.
How can I get information about the venue and other logistical details urgently if I need to travel to write my exams?
You should contact your regional LPC office. Alternatively, you can send an e-mail to helpdesk
lpc.org.za to request assistance.
Do I need to pass both papers during the same session?
It is not a requirement to pass both papers in one sitting. You must, however, pass both papers to pass the conveyancing exam. You will be allowed to carry your score for the paper that you passed over and it will not be necessary to rewrite that paper provided you pass the outstanding paper within two years.
The Gawie le Roux Institute of Law offers a Course in conveyancing. You can opt for online lectures during the week (see the website for dates and times), recordings of those online lectures, a structured 5-month course (accompanied by a useful study schedule and mock examination exercises), 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 pens in case one fails (you may only complete the paper in black ink);
- a calculator as you will not be allowed to use your phone or borrow one;
- a pencil;
- an eraser;
- a ruler;
- post-it notes / flags;
- your stationary has to be in a transparent pencil case or bag; and
- 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.
Is there a dress code for the exam?
The dress code is office-appropriate, however, if you are in casual clothes, you will not be refused entry.
What is the dress code for the oral exam?
The dress code for the oral exam is office formal.
How do I prepare for the oral exam?
Here are a few oral exam preparation tips:
- Don't feel intimidated if there is more than one person on your panel. It will count in your favour if you have multiple examiners.
- If you struggle to formulate your answer verbally, ask the examiners for a piece of blank paper and a pen. The examiners won't mind if you take a moment to collect your thoughts before answering.
- Don't be afraid to clarify a question posed if it is ambiguous or has more than one interpretation.
- Your focus should be on short questions and principles, in other words how you would have prepared for your theory paper.
- Familiarise yourself with the Deeds Office if possible. Even if you don't get a question about the Deeds Office, it is a good confidence-builder to do a walk-through if you have a contact who can help you gain access.
- Study all the theory in your notes.
- Take your time and don't feel pressured.
- Most importantly, go through your paper again. Ensure that you know exactly where you went wrong the first time. The examiners may ask you questions you answered incorrectly during the written exam.
Read more about oral exam preparation here.
I have a medical issue that prevents me from writing the exam by hand. What do I do?
You would have to contact the LPC directly to make a special arrangement beforehand.
You may also be interested in:
The conveyancing exam: Why starting early is key
Digital trophy case: Top achievers in the 2023 LPC exams
How to overcome exam anxiety: Tips from an alum
Lessons from a conveyancing trailblazer
Last updated: 3 September 2024