Failed SQE1 on 3rd attempt (Passed FLK2, failed FLK1) – Is an appeal for another exception possible?

Hi everyone,
I’m looking for some advice and insight from anyone who has navigated the SQE appeal process or faced a similar situation.
Unfortunately, I just got my results back for my third attempt at SQE1. I managed to pass FLK2, but I failed FLK1 with a score of 86/180.
Since the SRA limits candidates to 3 attempts within a 6-year window, this means I am currently out of attempts. However, given how close I am and the fact that I’ve passed FLK2, I am desperate to find out if there is any viable route to appeal or request an exceptional additional attempt.
A few questions for the community:

  1. Appeals / Extenuating Circumstances: Has anyone successfully appealed an SQE result or attempt limit on the grounds of Mitigating Circumstances (fit to sit / serious health/personal issues)?
  2. Procedural Errors: Is an appeal only realistic if there was a verified technical or administrative error on the test day?
  3. The 6-Year Rule: If an appeal isn't possible, is the 6-year wait strictly enforced from the date of the first attempt, or is there any nuance to how it's calculated?
    I’m feeling pretty gutted right now after putting in so much work and getting half of it over the line. Any honest feedback, experiences, or advice on how to approach Kaplan/the SRA would be greatly appreciated.

Posted Sep 8, 2026, 11:50 AM UTC

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