Program Overview

Introduction to the Notarial Practice Course

The UCL Laws Notarial Practice course is designed to enable legally qualified applicants to fulfil the professional stage of the three stages to becoming a Notary Public. A Notary Public is a legal officer of ancient standing, responsible for preparing and executing legal documents for use abroad, attesting the authenticity of deeds and writings, and protesting bills of exchange. Notaries in England and Wales may also provide any non-contentious legal service, including Conveyancing and Probate activities.

The Process of Qualification and Appointment as a Notary

The process of qualification and appointment as a Notary consists of three stages:

1. Academic Training: Applicants must hold a valid certificate issued by the Faculty Office exempting them from all 8 modules which comprise the 'Academic' stage of training.
2. Professional Training: This is a two-year mostly distance learning course, with minimum attendance requirements, run on the Faculty Office's behalf by an academic provider, to train candidates in Notarial Practice.
3. Admission: Upon successful completion of the Notarial Practice Course, applicants will need to apply to the Faculty Office for appointment as a Notary and admission to the Roll of Notaries.

About the UCL Notarial Course Structure

The course is normally completed within two years on a part-time basis, starting in late September of each year, and includes three modules of study:

1. Year 1 – September to December: Roman Law as an Introduction to Modern Civil Law Systems ("Roman Law")
2. Year 1 – January to March: Private International Law
3. Year 2 – September to March: Notarial Practice All first-year courses must be passed before students can begin Year 2 of the course.

Teaching and Learning

The majority of the course is delivered through electronic learning, which allows students to study at home or in the workplace. The learning is also supported by an introductory workshop and 12-hours of workshops each year over the two years of the course. Some workshops are held in-person on Saturdays, and some are held as 2-hour tutorial sessions online on weekdays.

Applying for the Certificate of Exemption

Applicants cannot commence the Notarial Practice Course until a Certificate of Exemption has been granted. The Certificate is the single entry requirement for the course, and applicants will need to make an application to the Faculty Office of the Archbishop of Canterbury.

Applying and Fees

• How to Apply: Applications should be made using the online form.
• Queries: Any queries should be directed to the UCL Laws Events & CPD Manager.
• Course Fees for 2026-7: £9,950 for the full two-year course, including examination fees.
• Monthly Payment Option: Individuals self-financing their course fees can pay via 20 x monthly interest-free instalments between September 2026 to April 2028.
• UCL Graduates Receive a 15% Discount on the Fees.

Additional Information

• Open Day for 2026 Entry: The Open Day gives prospective students the opportunity to find out about the role and function of Public Notaries.
• The Notaries Society: Has published two useful leaflets on becoming a Notary, intended for law graduates and for legal practitioners.