The Bar Standards Board (BSB) has confirmed a new timetable for the introduction of an aptitude test for the Bar Vocational Training Course (BPTC).

The body's current pilot scheme is set to conclude in October this year, with the BSB subsequently submitting its findings to the Legal Services Board for approval two months later.

Once the correlation between the aptitude test scores and the students' final BPTC results has been fully analysed, a decision will be taken by the oversight body as to whether the test is fit for purpose.

If approved by the regulator, the new test will be introduced as an entry requirement for the BPTC for students applying to start the course in the autumn of 2012. The test will be available for applicants when the online application system opens in October.

The test had previously been expected to be introduced as an entry requirement for the BPTC for students applying to start the course in September this year.

BSB chair Baroness Ruth Deech (pictured) commented: "We are in no doubt that the aptitude test needs to be thoroughly piloted and have therefore amended our timetable to make sure that this is the case."

She added: "This is not something that can be rushed, we are happy to extend our timelines to ensure that those relying on the test in the future can have complete faith in it."

The BSB has been piloting the development of an aptitude test since 2009, following recommendations made by the Bar Vocational Course Review Group chaired by Derek Wood QC.

The aim of the test is to ensure that those undertaking the BPTC have the required skills to succeed, and helping to ensure that those without the required skills do not take on the financial burden of the training without realistic prospects of success.