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I applied for a firm's direct TC stream, but, post AC, I have been offered a VS for next year. I am very perplexed as this was quite unexpected (I was anticipating a straight rejection). Normally, I would accept without a second thought, but I live overseas (UK citizen) and it costs a LOT of money to fly to the UK. There is also the additional aspect of whether or not I can get time off work, the fact I will have major jetlag during the scheme so won't perform well, etc. I am very grateful to be in a position to receive this offer, just very shocked.

Has anyone experienced a similar situation of being offered a VS instead of a TC? Or any general advice would be appreciated.

Thanks

So iv still got a couple weeks left till i start my LLM SQE 1 and 2. I'm just wondering what's a good way to revise/prepare and get ahead. if anyone has any good revising methods or techniques please feel free to drop them down below.

Hi all,

I have an interview coming up with a Freshfields partner for a role in their Knowledge and Information Services. This is the third and final interview in the process and in the last interview I was told that the final stage interview was a more technical interview.

Does anyone have any advice on approaching technical interviews? I have never had an interview be referred to as "technical" and so not really sure if this mean legally or more structured etc. I'm also kinda confused what is left to ask as I have had two interviews previously which covered why Freshfields, why this area, my work experience etc.

Any advice would be highly appreciated as it's Freshfields and Lord knows I want this job hahhaha

Hiya,

I've applied to both UoL in London and BPP in Cambridge. My attraction to Cambridge is that a) it's nicer b) MUCH cheaper.

But as I want to pursue a career in commercial law at a London firm, I was wondering whether doing the PgDL in Cambridge might be disadvantageous. Basically, am I limiting myself in networking opportunities or access to the London firms by not doing it a London campus. What are people's thoughts?

Has anyone received their results yet? I know it was late last year but it seems to have happened already 2 years before

Hi, I'm new to this forum

I'm an international student from Canada about to enter my second year in LLB at a RG uni.

I unfortunately ended my first year with a 2:2 and I'm not sure if my circumstances would be considered extenuating (Taking care of a sick family member during exam seasons as it's when I go home). I completed my high school qualifications in Canada and did both the IB diploma and Ontario Secondary School Diploma at the same time. I'm not sure if I should be applying with both of these qualifications or choose one. I'm aware that IB is more globally recognized, but I only achieved 555 in HL and 533 SL with an A in my EE. On the other hand, my Top 6 grades for OSSD averaged at 83.8%. I can't find a standard equivalency chart for either qualification; would choosing one over the other make my applications stronger? If I add both qualifications does it diminish the quality of my applications?

Additionally, if A level studies take 2 years, would I input my Grade 11 and 12 courses for post 16 studies and add my Grade 9 and 10 courses for 14-16 studies? I’ve asked the Canadian network at my university about it but have gotten mixed answers, with some saying they only put Grade 12 courses for post 16 and Grade 11 courses for 14-16.

My grades dropped in Grade 11 and 12 (from high 90s in 9/10 to mid 80s with around 60s in 2 STEM subjects in 11/12) due to mental health and circumstances mentioned earlier— how should I address this while still having strong applications? Can I omit any bad courses in high school or is this too risky?

Sorry my post is kind of lengthy, but advice is appreciated !

Hi all,

Last year I was successful in getting to the interview stage, and something that was really strong about my applications was that (as a non-law candidate) I could talk about how I studied medieval law as part of my undergraduate degree and this is why I wanted to practice law. I've just finished up my master's degree, but the focus was not on law but on medieval poetry. I was wondering whether this is something I should try and reconcile with my previous (and genuine interest) in law, or if I should focus on transferable skills (I used novels statistical techniques), or if I should simply ignore it and focus on what I did do during that time that shows a more direct interest in law.

Thanks,

Hi everyone,

In September, I will be going to the Uni of Law National Fair. This will be my first in person careers event and I have a few questions I was hoping to clarify with anyone who attended the event in previous years.

1. How much time can you realistically expect to get to ask your questions? I understand that it will be a busy event, and I wander if you get a turn to speak to a representative directly or is there going to be a group of students around each booth and everyone takes their turn asking a question?

2. Do you get a chance to ask follow up questions and have a longer chat?

3. Is it a good idea to contact the grad recruitment and/or the Uni of Law to ask who specifically will be representing a firm at the fair? Especially in case of partners/associates, I would like to know in advance so I could prepare questions about the practice area/team they work in.

Any insights would be greatly appreciated!

Here's my journey so far:

• A levels AABB (sciences)
• RG uni - 1st class STEM degree
• 6 years in the finance industry (in corporate/investment roles)
• Starting my PGDL in September!!
• Age - late 20s
• Aim: Vacation scheme --> TC/ a few direct TCs applications!

I'm trying to be very intentional with my applications and get organised.
I've filtered down to 10 firms that I want to apply to with specific practice areas that interest me. I'm not actually that interested in transactional seats. I don't want to do M&A work. I've been in those teams as an analyst in finance and did not enjoy the work or the working culture.

1) My main aim is to continue to develop commercial awareness and be able to articulate opinions and ideas well. Due to my previous roles, I've spent a lot of time reading and producing reports about market activity etc, but based on the videos I've watched on TCLA premium, there's an "art" to discussing it in this context.

2) Another aim is to improve the quality of my written applications. So far, I've received 1 rejection (DAC Beachcroft for the September vacation scheme). I think on reflection, my "what attracts you to a career in law, and why the firm" answer wasn't strong enough and my legal scenario was weak.

However, I applied for another scheme they wanted someone who had completed the PGDL already. They responded saying I made the final shortlist and my answers and research were strong on "why the firm" - but because I hadn't finished my PGDL, I couldn't do the scheme. This was an incredibly encouraging response for me.

My strategy
1) Continue regularly reading non-billable/little law/watsons + Ft news briefing (my fave)
2) Make notes on key stories of interest + analysis + opinion using the DIP method + linking it back to experiences
3) Continue with firm engagement open days/ firm talks ahead of the vacation scheme application process
4) Gain feedback from careers service + others on the application ahead of submission of app forms
5) Start volunteering at law firm legal clinic + Citizens Advice
6) Do well on my course - I'm aiming for a distinction so need to start pre-reading ASAP!!!

Hello TCLA Community, My name is Nazeefa and I am a recent law graduate from the University of Aberdeen. My goal is to achieve a TC at Hogan Lovells as that has always been my dream. I would love to connect with everyone on Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/nazeefa-malik-815922274

I recently got the results from my A level retakes, last year I got CCD and this year I got BCC. I got in to Aston university for Law but I also got in to the University of Liverpool for Politics. I'm really not sure what the best option for me would be. I was settled on Aston and even confirmed my place but I am still thinking about Liverpool and how much having a russel group uni on my CV would benefit me when it comes to training contracts. However, at Aston I would be able to stay at home, save money, have a placement year, take part in multiple legal experiences like law clinics and mooting that I probably would not be able to access in Liverpool. Many people have told me to just go to Liverpool but I'm just unsure if that's really the best thing to do. I've heard many success stories from people who went to Aston Law and got in to firms like Freeths and Irwin Mitchell.

Hi All,

I am an international graduate (I completed my LLB in Australia) currently studying the SQE1 and working at a US law firm in London. I completed two vacation schemes last year, one at a silver circle firm and another at AG and have prior experience as a paralegal. I haven’t had much success this cycle in getting past the first round for TC/ vac schemes and am beginning to wonder whether a lot of UK firms don’t like my profile, being an international graduate that completed their undergraduate degree in Australia (I studied abroad for 1 year at the University of Surrey).

I would appreciate any advice here, firstly whether there are certain firms I should avoid applying to if I am more likely to be filtered out based on my university and if I should prioritise applications to US firms for instance given my profile? I am also keen to know for firms with rolling deadlines whether I have a better chance of being considered if I get my application in early or should I wait to attend an event with them and submit my application immediately after? I am aware of how competitive it is becoming each year so want to maximise my chances of getting to the next round.

Hi everyone!

We've compiled a list of law firms that are currently accepting applications for open days and insight schemes (including those aimed at first year students). These events offer a great chance to get to know specific firms, especially if you're unable to apply for vacation schemes and can only apply using direct training contract routes. The list will be regularly updated throughout the application cycle, so keep checking back for the latest opportunities.

Good luck with your application cycle! LAST EDITED: Friday 17th October, 2025

Open Day and Insight Scheme Deadlines 2025/26 ​

I think it would be helpful if we compile a list of firms that are more stringent with grade requirements. In my case, I have quite an inconsistent grade profile, so am uncertain as to which firms I should realistically apply to! I'll start the list, and would really appreciate if anyone can assist

HSF Kramer - 2:1 in every module (generally).
Slaughters - high 2:1 average; unsure what they think about blips, but unlikely sympathetic!
Davis Polk - high 2:1, but strong pref for 1st

Hello TCLA Members! Hope you're all doing well!

I'm Ritu from India - I'll be joining LSE this fall for an LLM! Simultaneously, trying to navigate the law firm applications for the coming cycle.

Hi,

I went into care right after my GCSEs and missed a year of education (year 12), which significantly disrupted both my mental health and my A Level studies. In addition, the pandemic meant my A Level exams were cancelled, and unfortunately, I didn’t do well.

I’m now studying Neuroscience at university (second year) and hope to graduate with a 1st. Although I didn’t initially have an interest in Law, I’ve recently developed a strong interest. However, I’m worried that my academic history might hold me back from securing a vacation scheme—let alone a training contract. Any advice?

Hi everyone,

I have a TC AC tomorrow and, naturally, I am incredibly nervous. I don't feel as confident as I would like as I have been to a few interviews recently for a paralegal role and I haven't gotten it. I was recently made redundant from my paralegal role so I just haven't been feeling the best lately, like my career isn't moving. I don't want these negative feelings affecting my performance tomorrow. I feel so grateful that I managed to achieve this AC at an amazing law firm that I know I'd thrive at.

I would really appreciate any words of encouragement or advice.

Hi all,

I have been doing research into different firms and the candidates they select.

It would appear from my research that most SC/MC firms only recruit from NRG if the candidate has obtained a 1st class.

I was wondering if anyone who has had a similar trajectory might disclosure where they successfully got a TC? I'm just feeling discouraged and not sure if I am wasting time applying to these types of firms if I haven't got a 1st class degree. I graduated with a high 2:1 (68%).

Thanks x

Hi all,

I am feeling quite lost and contemplating whether I am a good fit for firms.

I have ABC A-Levels (with extenuating circumstances) and a High 2:1 (68%) from a NRG Uni. I will be graduating with a Merit LLM from a RG Uni and I'm in the process of finishing the LPC.

I am currently looking at firms that I could apply to or realistically get a TC at. It seems from my research (via firm websites, trainees LinkedIns etc), that most firms that accept NRG candidates, only accept them if they have received a 1st. The firms I am looking at are Ashurst, BCLP etc.

I feel very discouraged and feel as if I have failed. Do you have any stories of people who have achieved a 2:1 at a NRG obtaining a training contract at a good firm?

Thanks all x

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some guidance on my career options and the best way forward. I originally live in Dubai but have been in the UK for 6 years now, completing my undergrad, LPC and paralegal job here.

I graduated in 2022 with a training contract at an international law firm which was beginning in 2023 and 2:1 Law degree from University of Leeds. Due to my CAS letter not coming in time, I ended up having to apply to the 6 month LPC course in London. I did quite well in all my exams, except for the legal writing module. Due to being marked Not Yet competent, my tc was rescinded mid-LPC and I was left to complete my LPC without any certainty of the future. I applied for paralegal roles and landed one at another international law firm. I've been working there since 2023, and back in the applicant's pool with not much success. It was quite a tough thing to get over, but honestly, I'd make a much better trainee today than I would have back then so I've grown a lot.

I’m currently on a UK Graduate Visa which expires in January 2026. My original plan was to secure a training contract before then, but I’m also considering qualifying through the SQE route.

One option I’m looking at is applying for the SQE2 January 2026 intake (on a student visa). It’s a 3-month course, which means I’d complete the academic part by April 2026. At that point, I’d only need a couple more months of Qualifying Work Experience (QWE) to meet the two-year requirement. I’ve already built up significant paralegal experience that should count.

The main issue is that I’d then be a newly qualified lawyer in Dubai by the end of 2026, as I’d likely have to return there. I’m unsure what the market is like for someone qualifying this way, and I’ve heard mixed things about opportunities for this route in Dubai or otherwise. My gut says that having completed a training contract in the UK would give me a much stronger position to return with, but I also don’t want to be chasing TC applications indefinitely. It occurred to me that I could continue applying for direct training contracts even in dubai but I can't seem to figure out how long to go on for or anything.

Has anyone been in a similar position or seen how each route plays out in practice? I’d really appreciate any insights on:

• The pros/cons of qualifying via SQE + QWE vs TC for someone in my position
• How UK qualification via SQE is perceived in the UK and Dubai market
• Whether it’s worth prioritising TC applications for the next year or starting SQE2 preparations sooner

Thanks so much for any advice you can share!

Hello everyone,
I need your advice as I am not sure if this is feasible for my situation to become a solicitor at this moment but maybe there are people here that have gone through the same and made it.
I am working as a Legal Counsel in The Netherlands, in an offshore company and I was thinking to qualify as a Solicitor. That’s more of a challenge because I always like to study and to challenge myself and also to understand better the English system, feel more confident in my role and have something strong to support me in my career.
That being said, can anyone tell me how long you need to study? From what I read it looks impossible because of the time but want to make sure I understand all good.
As for the work experience I understand that working as a legal counsel counts to that.
I also have two kids (4 and 6) so I will be able to study in the evenings.
I have a master degree in law from UK and a bachelor in law from a romanian university.

Looking forward to some advice and if there are similar posts, please let me know!

Kind regards,
Oana

I have a law degree from the UK and was able to secure a paralegal role at a high street firm whilst on my graduate visa. My visa, however, is due to expire in a few months and my current firm cannot sponsor me nor have I been able to find another role. So I am trying to weigh my options here, one of which is to self fund the SQE as a form of 'upskilling' and being more desirable to employers. Any advice?

Also, to those international students that have done or are in the process of taking the full-time SQE courses within the UK. How long was your student visa granted for and what is the duration of your course?

And to those international students that have completed it. Did you find it made it easier for you to land a legal role as an international?

Thanks

Hello everyone. My name is Oyinfayo. I’m a graduate of the University of South Wales. Before studying law, I studied international relations. Last year, I completed a vacation scheme at Osborne Clarke, but unfortunately, I wasn't offered a training contract.

I currently work as a legal investment researcher, and this is my third year applying for training contracts. Honestly, the process is beginning to affect me more than I expected, and that's why I am here.

BPP vs University of Law- which is the better provider for the law conversion course for someone without a TC

Heya,

My name is Jasmine, I am a law graduate currently working as a Commercial Contracts Coordinator for a medical company.

I will now be entering into my either 5th application cycle. ()

I spent the last couple of weeks reflecting on my biggest problems and pitfalls which can be categorised in the following:

1) Applied to only a handful of firms. This process is very competitive so only 5/6 applications to only MC/US firms is not going to cut it (at least for me).

2) Generic applications, I only realised this recently (much to my sadness). I realised the amount of research/depth required to really stand out.

3) Poor performance in WG. I seem to pass the Linklaters online tests but never passed CC one for some reason. Poor performance in SJT. Can someone please help me understand the A&O Shearman test, I keep failing it

4) Following my AC with Linklaters early this year the feedback was that my motivations to apply for this specific firm was not strong. This ties with point 1, even in interviews having a clear answer to why this firm is KEY. (I will work on it).

5) Poor performance in written assessments/case study interviews. I would be lying if I said ACs do not terrifying me to my very core. Anything remotely uncomfortable and I shut down like a light. Fear leads to procrastination, procrastination leads to anxiety, the vicious cycle I was and probably still I am in. (I will work on this)

These five points are my weaknesses and probably contributed significantly to my lack of success.However, I am grateful to have a secured the Get Ahead scheme last year, it provided me with so much knowledge especially for commercial awareness. Although I have failed my very first AC with Linklaters, I am hopeful that I have the potential to succeed, I just need to really work on it.

This upcoming cycle I am aiming to push myself like I have never done before. To mentally psych myself I am currently reading a book called Psycho Cybernatics.

This book introduces the idea that every human being possesses an internal goal-seeking system called the Automatic Success Mechanism, or ASM.
The ASM is rooted in the subconscious mind, and it functions best when given a clear and emotionally charged goal to pursue (for example secure a VS or TC.) Essentially this book discuss the power of taking small actionable steps towards your goals, failures are not sign that you are not enough or any negative thoughts, failure is feedback. It helps to learn and do better next time. This is exactly the approach I will take for this upcoming cycle.

Alright this is very looooong!!!

I would love to hear from anyone who is currently preparing for this upcoming cycle. Wishing you the best of luck for everyone, we got this!

All the best

J