Pupillage Application Move Towards Self-Service

From 1 September 2026, all new pupillage registrations must be completed through the Bar Standards Board (BSB) MyBar portal. The Pupillage Self-Service (PSS) registration process replaces the previous format and is now mandatory for all Pupillage Authorised Education and Training Organisations, which in practice means all chambers offering pupillage.

How the New Process Works

Chambers and pupillage providers begin the registration process through MyBar before sending it to the pupil to complete. The BSB then handles final sign-off. The process streamlines what was previously a more fragmented administrative exercise and is intended to improve communication between providers, pupils and the BSB throughout the registration process.

It is important to note that the new PSS process applies specifically to initial pupillage registrations. The existing arrangements for non-practising ("1st Six") sign-off, practising ("2nd Six") sign-off and material changes remain unchanged and continue to be managed directly by the BSB's Authorisations Team.

Why It Matters

The introduction of the PSS process is one of the more visible practical outputs of the BSB's commitment, set out in its 2026/27 Business Plan, to improve its regulatory services through the use of technology and to address backlogs in authorisations work.

The BSB has described the PSS as the first step in a wider programme of work to enhance pupillage administration. Further updates to the pupillage registration and sign-off process are expected as that programme progresses.

What Chambers Should Do

Chambers clerks and administrators responsible for pupillage should ensure they have MyBar access and are familiar with the new registration process. Those who have not yet used the system are encouraged to review the BSB's published guidance. Any registrations for pupils beginning in the current intake that have not yet been submitted should be completed through MyBar rather than the previous format.