What should I expect before my 2nd degree?

A candidate seeking advancement to the second degree must demonstrate suitable proficiency in the first degree before being passed 12. This requires undergoing a period of instruction to master the work and mysteries already imparted 13.

Before being permitted to advance, the candidate is expected to undergo an examination in open lodge to test his knowledge and preparedness 1. General Masonic law requires a genuine demonstration of this proficiency, which cannot be waived or satisfied merely by time and circumstances 1.

Following or as part of this process, the candidate's advancement is subject to the approval of the lodge. Under general Masonic jurisprudence, this is determined by a ballot, where a single negative vote will reject the candidate's application to advance 12. However, balloting for advancement is not customary in lodges under the English Constitution, which instead enforces a mandatory probation period of at least four weeks between degrees 1.

From a symbolic perspective, Wilmshurst views this interval as a period of discipline in which the candidate works upon his grosser nature, preparing his inner consciousness to receive the further light of the Fellow Craft stage 3.