Training Contract Journey

Long-time lurker, this is my first time posting.

I'm not sure how to begin this post, so I will start with some context. I am currently a Canadian 23M and have been applying for vacation schemes in the UK for the past 6-ish months. I graduated from a dual degree business program between a university here in Canada and another one in China (graduated with a high 2.1 or 1st, depending on what conversion scale you use). Last year, I was able to secure a vacation scheme with a top 5 global firm last year in London, which was a great experience and frankly confirmed my decision to start my legal career in the UK rather than Canada. I am currently self-sponsored and hold an HPI visa. Hope this paints a clearer picture.

To put it plainly, this last recruitment cycle has been brutal, and I haven't had nearly the same success I did last time. Although it isn't the end of the world, because I currently have a full-time job in a bank here in Canada, I am just a bit lost on what to do next. I feel so utterly defeated by my lack of success this recruitment cycle; however, I still remain certain that I want to be a commercial solicitor. I am currently still applying, and in the process for some, its just been one PFO after another.

Most of the advice on this forum seems to be tailored towards people with established legal careers looking to lateral or having graduated from a UK university and then applying from there. It feels as though I am at such a strategic disadvantage applying from Canada, but I know that packing my things up and just moving to the UK isn't much of an option either. I am not going to quit trying, but I feel rather helpless in my current situation.

My question to the community: What can I do to bring myself one step closer to this career goal?
https://www.reddit.com/submit/?source_id=t3_1r1j9p0

Posting on TCLA after almost a year. I never really had the courage to do this before. I could really use some advice, support, or even just a few kind words. I don’t think I’ve ever felt this demotivated about anything in my life.

Background

I’m an international candidate. I completed my LLB at a non-RG university, largely due to financial constraints at the time..self-funding meant that paying £15k per year simply wasn’t an option. I graduated with a 2:1 (with mitigating circumstances due to caring responsibilities).

I spent three years in London, which were genuinely amazing. I networked extensively, attended open days at several Magic Circle firms, and gained early exposure to the differences between becoming a barrister and a solicitor. I was encouraged to apply for training contracts, but at the time I felt I wasn’t ready.. something I now regret, especially considering how much more competitive the market has become since then. I passed WGTs with high scores and was selected for various insight days and mentoring schemes.

After graduating in 2019, I returned to my hometown for personal reasons and practised law there for two years during COVID. During that time, I realised I wanted to build an international career, so I returned to the UK and completed the LPC, passing with commendation. I worked alongside my studies to fund both my education and living expenses.

Training Contract Journey

The 22/23 and 23/24 cycles were when I gave this process my full focus. I also took part in the AS Commercial Awareness Competition and reached the quarter-finals. I was again selected for open days at major firms, including Shearman & Sterling and King & Spalding, and received positive feedback that my CV stood out despite my background.

In the 22/23 cycle, I applied to around 10 firms and progressed to tests or interviews at seven of them. Although I didn’t secure a TC, I accepted this. I was juggling full-time work and caring responsibilities and told myself maybe I hadn’t given it 100%.

The 23/24 cycle felt different. I reached the assessment centre at my dream firm and genuinely felt like things were finally aligning. The AC went well and I was later told my performance was strong. However, offers were made shortly after the UK government announced changes to salary thresholds for visas. Because I had applied to a regional office, the firm ultimately couldn’t offer me the TC due to UKVI requirements. Performance-wise there was no negative feedback. According to the EC team, I scored well in everything - just unfortunate timing..

felt a bit like being disqualified after finishing the race, but the firm wasn’t at fault. still, it hit hard mentally and made me question whether becoming a solicitor was just one of those dreams that stays a dream.

Life After Rejection

In August 2024, I left my job and spent some time travelling (part healing, part avoidance if I’m being honest). Since then, I’ve worked with NGOs and banks in my hometown and have also taught law. In 2025, I moved to Munich with my partner. I stepped away from law applications because I felt burnt out and, honestly, scared to try again.

2025 also started on a difficult note as I lost two family members. alongside adjusting to a new country, learning a new language, and rebuilding routine, I’ve struggled with feeling quite useless at times (common law background in a civil law jurisdiction feels a bit like owning the wrong charger for everything). But, speaking to people here and reflecting properly made me realise something: I can’t walk away from law. I genuinely enjoy law, and despite everything, this is still what I want to do. So I’ve decided to apply again for direct TCs this cycle.

Advice Needed

I’m now 28, and part of me feels like I’ve missed the TC window and that it might simply be too late. At the same time, I want to move forward rather than give up. I would really appreciate hearing from anyone who has gone through something similar or felt this way during the process.

I’d also appreciate advice on improving performance in Amberjack assessments. I’ve found the newer format quite confusing. I don’t fully understand how potential is assessed or how much weight is placed on interviews compared to the tests. For example, I once scored only average on a test but progressed, while on another occasion I scored highly across assessments and was rejected.

Finally, I’ve been considering the exemptions route. I am a qualified lawyer from a common law jurisdiction, and I understand that the SRA has recently changed its exemption rules. My understanding is that LPC exemptions are no longer granted, but I would be grateful if anyone could confirm this or share experiences on how to approach qualification strategically from here.

Imposter Syndrome
also, I try not to compare my journey to anyone else’s, but sometimes it’s hard not to when you see former classmates now working as senior associates or even partners. I’m genuinely proud of them and happy to see them doing well, but I’d be lying if I said it never felt a little uncomfortable at times. At the same time, I’ve also seen many people who absolutely deserved a TC get rejected for reasons unrelated to their ability or potential (visa issues being a big one) That part is difficult to watch and even harder to experience firsthand. It sometimes creates this strange sense of imposter syndrome, where you start questioning your own path despite knowing the circumstances weren’t entirely within your control.

Would really appreciate hearing from anyone who has gone through something similar and how they managed to move past that feeling.

Rejected:

Pinsent Mason:
A&O Shearman:
DLA Piper
Clifford Chance
Gowling
CMS
HSF
Willkie Farr & Gallagher
Bird and Bird
Fieldfisher
Reed Smith
Taylor Wessing
Baker Mckenzie
Cooley
Trowers & Hamlins
Milbank
Osborne Clarke
White & Case
Bristows (post-VI)
Freshfields
Fladgate
Morgan Lewis
Womble Bond Dickinson
Squire Patton Boggs
NRF (post-VI)
Slaughter and May
Freshfields
Wedlake Bell
Hogan Lovell (forgot to do the test)
Akin
Disney Graduate Scheme
Shoosmiths
Russell Cooke
Linklaters
Addleshaw Goddard
Stephenson Harwood (post-VI)
Clyde and Co (post-VI)
Ashurst
Wedlake Bell
Pennington Manches Cooper
Alphasights Compliance
Foot Anstey (post-VI)
Mishcon De Reya
South Square Mini Pupillage
Harbottle & Lewis
DWF
Haynes Boone
Russell-Cooke
Dentons

Waiting:

Tatham & Co
Howard Kennedy
DAC Beachcroft
Kingsley Napley

Hi, I thought I’d share my journey on here. I am an Oxford humanities grad with a 2:1, currently doing the PGDL. Getting a bit bogged down in rejections at the moment.

I have work experience with two firms on my list, plus a VS with a regional firm. I have done internships in two private client (one law-adjacent) industries, and have been on a huge trustee board. My academic results are pretty strong but I did get a 2:2 in second year and my 2:1 overall was a 61, which isn't great. I have many other extracurriculars, including founding my own business - so I don't think my CV is lacking in itself.

I am interested in private client work, so this is a range of firms (some small, some more mainstream) with good departments in that rather than corporate. These are mostly DTC applications unless the firm mostly/mainly recruits from their VS.

Applications:
- Withers
- Stephenson Harwood
- Macfarlanes
- Farrer & Co
- Ogier (Guernsey)
- Wedlake Bell

PFO:
- Taylor Wessing
- Mills & Reeve
- Forsters
- Fladgate
- WBD
- Osborne Clarke
- Russell-Cooke
- Penningtons
- Boodle Hatfield
- Mishcon
- Harbottle & Lewis
- Charles Russell Speechlys
- Payne Hicks Beach
- Kingsley Napley



= application
= AI interview
= online test
= assessment centre
= interview
= rejection

Dear all,

I have been waiting for the end of January to write this post. Technically, this is my second cycle, but last cycle I joined late in mid July for only applying to one TC and got an AC which was surprising as just testing for my ability.

This cycle, I'm so curious... I started my first day of cycle in late September, by applying to one WVS and 20+ Open days:

Winter Vacation Scheme:

28/09/2025: Paul Weiss, PFO: 31/10/2025 (post app).

Selective Open Days:

01/10/2025: Taylor Wessing, Offer: 03/10/2025
06/10/2025: Cooley, Offer: 10/11/2025
13/10/2025: Goodwin, Offer: 20/10/2025
04/11/2025: Stephenson Harwood, Offer: 24/11/2025
07/11/2025: Penningtons Manches Cooper, Offer: 26/11/2025
WFW: PFO in December
Gibson Dunn: PFO in December
Charles Russell Speechlys: PFO in December
King & Spalding: PFO in January

Non-selective Open Day/Insight events:

Skadden, Reed Smith, Willkie, Fieldfisher, Clyde & Co, Shoosmiths, Hogan Lovells, Winston & Strawn, Orrick, Farrer & Co, RPC, Macfarlanes, Lewis Silkin Glaisyer ETL, etc (and many in virtual law fair).

Then, I decided to apply multiple firms after identifying some firms only offer VS route with limited visa sponsorship or low chance to get alternative TC based on case by case basis (Though I really like them and got into their selective open days).

Spring Vacation Scheme:

06/10/2025 Sidley Austin - PFO: 16/02/2026 (post App).
11/10/2025 Weil, PFO: 16/01/2026 (post Amberjack).
16/10/2025 Macfarlanes, PFO: 16/01/2026 (post Cappfinity Stage 2 VI)
01/12/2025 Skadden, PFO: 16/12/2025 (post App)
08/12/2025 Willkie Farr, PFO: 19/12/2026 (post VI).
19/12/2025 Reed Smith, PFO: 21/01/2026 (post Amberjack).
26/12/2025 Cooley, PFO: 28/01/2026 (post app after 2 holding emails).
26/01/2026 Winston & Strawn, Invited to Pearson WG, due 18/02 (rescheduled to spring)

Summer Vacation Scheme

20/10/2025 Milbank, PFO: 16/01/2025 (post SHL stage 1 SJT).
28/11/2025 Taylor Wessing, PFO: 21/01/2026 (post passing TP WG).
01/12/2025 HSF Kramer, PFO: 03/02/2026 (post passing SOVA).
12/12/2025 Kirkland & Ellis, PFO: 23/01/2026 (post app)
15/12/2025 Dechert - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
21/12/2025 Cleary Gottlieb, PFO: 22/01/2026 (post app).
22/12/2025 Freshfields, PFO: 25/02/2026 (post app).
23/12/2025 Morrison Foerster - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
05/01/2026 Travers Smith, PFO: 20/02/2026 (post app).
09/01/2026 Morgan Lewis, PFO: 05/02/2026 (post app).
19/01/2026 Stephenson Harwood - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
30/01/2026 K&L Gates - Waiting after holding email on 25/02
04/04/2026 Haynes Boone -

Direct Training Contract

31/10/2025 McDermott Will & Schulte, PFO: 17/02/2026 (post app).
14/11/2025 A&O Shearman, PFO: 16/12/2025 (post Amberjack).
18/11/2025 Gowling WLG, PFO: 11/12/2025 (post Arctic Shores).
19/11/2025 Clifford Chance, PFO: 04/12/2025 (post passing Pearson WG).
28/11/2025 Slaughter and May - Waiting after holding email on 15/01
03/12/2025 Linklaters - Waiting post SJT & Pearson WG on 07/12
10/12/2025 Fieldfisher, PFO: 03/02/2026 (post app after holding email, position filled).
12/12/2025 Goodwin, PFO: 09/01/2026 (post app).
22/12/2025 Clyde & Co, PFO: 16/01/2026 (ineligible).
24/12/2025 Addleshaw Goddard - Waiting Post TP WG on 04/01
05/01/2026 Lewis Silkin, PFO: 20/02/2026 (post app after holding email)
09/01/2026 Greenberg Traurig - PFO: 12/02/2026 (post app).
09/01/2026 Gibson Dunn - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
13/01/2026 Proskauer Rose - PFO: 06/02/2026 (post app).
13/01/2026 Charles Russell Speechlys - Waiting after holding email on 20/02
19/01/2026 Hogan Lovells - Invited to Stage 2 VI/WE/JS, due 23/02
21/01/2026 Dentons - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
31/01/2026 Orrick - AC invite post TP WG, requesting for virtually or alternate DTC
02/02/2026 Arnold & Porter - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
09/02/2026 Faegre Drinker - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
11/02/2026 Mayer Brown - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
26/02/2026 Withers - Waiting/No communications other than confirmation email
03/03/2026 Baker McKenzie
23/03/2026 Ashurst
25/03/2026 Farrer & Co
27/03/2026 Penningtons Manches Cooper
29/03/2026 Shoosmiths
31/03/2026 King & Spalding

Withdrawn/Unsubmitted Apps due to ineligibility & portal error:

• Davis Polk
• Brown Rudnick
• Browne Jacobson
• Simmons & Simmons
• Mishcon de reya

Planning to Apply if no TC offers until April

• White & Case
• Fried Frank
• Wiggin
• WFW
• BCLP
• TLT
• Sullivan & Cromwell
• Eversheds Sutherland
• Burges Salmon
• RPC
• Paul Hastings
• HFW

Eligible Reapplications in one cycle (TC):

• Stephenson Harwood
• Morgan Lewis
• Macfarlanes
• K&L Gates

WISH ME LUCK EVERYONE!

Hello everyone,
Hopefully this will serve as a documentation of how I was able to get a successful TC.
It is a bit late in the cycle to start this but I am going stir crazy waiting for responses and updates from firms.
So far I have received 5 PFO's (heartbreaking) but we move.
Currently waiting on
Simmons & Simmons - PFO
Milbank - PFO post stage 2
Paul, Weiss PFO post app
Debevoise & Plimpton PFO post app
Mishcon de Reya
Gibson Dunn PFO post test
Sidley Austin PFO post app
DWF
Cooley - PFO post WG
Travers Smith
Kirkland & Ellis PFO post app
White & Case PFO post app
MoFo
Morgan Lewis PFO post app
Cleary PFO post app
Orrick
Winston & Strawn
Ropes & Gray PFO post app
Shoosmiths Waiting list lmao
Vinson & Elkins PFO post app
Dechert
...I am sure I'm missing some
Harbottle & Lewis

Have an AC from:
Mayer Brown
Covington


Going to apply to:
K&L Gates Summer
Fried Frank (later in the year)
King & Spalding (later in the year)
Paul Hastings (maybe DTC)
...and other direct training contracts if I can


I am constantly anxious and dealing with it my keeping up with the news and trying to breathe.
My mum gave the mantra "I will get a vacation scheme and a training contract this year." so I have been saying that on repeat.

Wish me luck!

Currently midway through my PGDL, graduated from an RG Uni with a high first, studying Business and Economics.

This is an update list of where I have got to, and whether still in.

So far applied to these firms, but want to apply to more once exams are over:

1. A&O Shearman - SJT+WG - Rejection
2. Ashurst - SJT+WG
3. Clifford Chance - VI - Rejection
4. Hogan Lovells - Job Sim
5. HSFK - SJT+WG - Rejection
6. Linklaters - SJT+WG
7. Macfarlanes - VI/Job Sim - Rejection
8. Paul, Weiss - Written Application
9. Slaughter and May - AC for DTC - Rejection
10. Taylor Wessing - SJT + WG
11. White and Case - SJT+WG
12. Mischon de Reya - AI Chatbot
13. Freshfields - SJT+WG - Rejection
14. HFW - Written Application
15. CMS - SJT+WG - Rejection
16. Eversheds - SJT + WG - Rejection
17. Willkie - Written Application - Rejection
18. NRF - VI
19. Kirkland - VI
20. Stephenson Harwood - Written Application
21. Simmons - Job Sim type thing
22. Baker McKenzie - Written application.

So that brings the tally to 9 PFOs so far, roughly 6 of which came in a 5-day span at the beginning of December which sucked.

Slaughters was a proper kick in the teeth. Thought it went fantastically, got on really well with both partners and grad rec. Feedback was also stellar, being very complimentary of the interviews and the written case study. The reason for rejection stated was that I didn't have the "Slaughters way of thinking" which sucked to hear, but, indeed, there is an evaluation for fit, not just competency, and I was certainly more energetic than many of the people in the office, so may have not fit all too well anyway!


Onwards and upwards!

Keeping track of the applications I've made so I can stop staring at my excel sheet:

Rejections

Travers Smith DTC post app
Freshfields DTC post stage 1
A&O post SJT/VI
Weil post SJT/VI
Clifford Chance post passing WG
WFW DTC - applied in December - PFO post app 13th Jan
Millbank Lev/fin VS Spring - completed stage 1 online assessment Dec 30th - PFO
Burges Salmon VS Edinburgh - completed auto assessment Jan 5th - PFO
Cooley VS Spring - applied December - PFO
Goodwin Procter DTC - completed VI Jan 7th - PFO
White & Case VS Spring - completed auto assessment Dec 30th - PFO
Dechert VS Spring - applied Dec 31 - PFO post app
Clyde & Co VS Spring - completed auto assessment Jan 10th - VI - PFO 9th Feb
Osborne Clark - DTC - PFO post online test
Marriot Harrison Summer VS - completed auto online assessment Feb - PFO'd late Feb
Orrick - VS Summer - PFO'd late Feb
Akin VS Spring - applied Dec 31 - PFO'd late Feb
Ropes & Gray - VS Summer - PFO'd late Feb
Addleshaw Goddard VS Summer - completed auto assessment Dec 29th - PFO 5/03

Progress updates

Linklaters DTC - Completed auto assessment in November

Gibson Dunn VS Spring - completed online assessment
Hogan Lovells DTC- applied in October - completed auto online assessment Feb - Invite to Job sim Feb 16th - Felt Job sim/VI went well
Simmons & Simmons VS Bristol - Auto SJT invite - completed SJT/VI late Feb, VI went well, SJT not the best scores

No update since application

HFW DTC - applied in October
Mayer Brown DTC - applied in December
Stephenson Harwood DTC - applied in December
Hugh James VS Summer
K&L Gates work placement - holding email
Russel Cooke - VS Summer
Michelmores Bristol VS Summer
Goldman Sachs Asset Management off-cycle internship

Hello everybody,
I have decided to post about my journey into the law world, with applications for training contracts and vacation schemes.

My profile:
I graduated in Politics, Philosophy and Economics from a RG university in 2024, with a big focus on economics (and also data analysis). I worked a non-law-related job whilst at University, and took the last year off in a foreign country to focus on my sport (competitive at a high level). I earned a mid 2:1 at University (the majority 2:2 modules, a few 1st, and 2x2:2), achieved AAA (2021 covid grade assessments) at A level, and 5 x Grade 9, 3x Grade 8 and 1 x A* at GCSE level. This is my first round of applications, and I do not have much prior Law knowledge (but significant economic knowledge).

I chose the firms to apply to based on which seemed to fit my skillset, diversifying slightly to improve chances; however, I understand my strategy could be improved upon when focusing on the next firms to apply for. I have no idea what to expect (probability-wise and process-wise), and I know that law is extremely competitive. I am excited to learn and welcome any advice! I spent roughly one day focused per application for my first 5 applications, then after that, I was able to do 2 a day. I prioritised based on deadlines, and accept that I probably missed out on many opportunities starting late. I made sure to try to be as professional as possible in my responses, whilst maintaining creativity and unique concepts. However, as this is my first time applying, I have never received feedback on applications before, so I am unsure exactly what individual firms are looking for in terms of responses (although I try to get a cultural understanding of the firms I apply to).

Firms applied to (so far) for Training Contracts and Vacation Schemes:
- **Dechert (17/12/25)️
- Arnold & Porter (18/12/25)
- **Gibson Dunn* (19/12/25)
- **Hogan Lovells (19/12/25)
- Travers Smith* (19/12/25)
- Burges Salmon* (21/12/25) -
- Addleshaw Goddard (23/12/25)
- Covington & Burling* (23/12/25)️
- Katten (24/12/25)
- Debevoise and Plimpton (24/12/25)
- Greenberg Traurig (26/12/25)️

EDIT - here are additional firms since creating the thread:

- HFW (28/12/25)️
- Milbank (29/12/25) - ️
- White & Case (29/12/25) ️
- Bristows* (1/1/26)️
- Cripps* (1/1/26)
- Vinson & Elkins (1/1/26)
- Mills & Reeve (3/1/26) - ()️
- Clyde & Co (5/1/26)️
- Squire Pattern Boggs (5/1/26)️
- Womble Bond Dickinson (5/1/26) ️
- Fladgate (6/1/26)️
- BCLP (8/1/26)️
- Osborne Clarke (8/1/26)️
- Ropes & Gray* (10/1/26)️
- Cleary Gottlieb (10/1/26)
- **Withers (12/1/26)
- Wedlake Bell* (12/1/26)️
- Lewis Silkin* (12/1/26)️
- Charles Russell Speechlys *(13/1/26)️
- **Stephenson Harwood* (14/1/26)
- **King & Spalding* (18/1/26)
- Morgan Lewis (20/1/26)️
- Browne Jacobson (20/1/26)
- Stevens & Bolton (30/1/26)
- Harbottle & Lewis (31/01/26)


Thank you! And feel free to ask any questions or give any advice .
Key
* = worked multiple days over application
** = DTC
️ = rejection
= Assumed rejection based on timeline/other progression
= assessment as part of application : 5
= online assessment allocated: 4
= online assessment completed
= video interview: 2
= interview
= assessment centre (optimistic here down)
🏖 = VS
= TC

Edit: To clarify, I applied to many US law firms over UK ones as I read that extracurricular activities and interests (of which I have extensive lists) had more value in the application process for these firms. In addition, when I started to apply, I had already missed many UK deadlines. I am very interested in London for my long-term career, but also happy to look at other regional firms where I might have higher probabilities.

I'm halfway through my applications and feeling demotivated so I'll stop being a lurker and share my progress.

I'm almost 27, with a troubled educational history but lots of 'client-side' finance experience. I've also built a consulting business in a niche area and freelance for Private Equity and other startups.
Switching to law now as it was a long-time dream, I almost did the PGDL in 2020 but COVID + securing a decent finance job changed my path. Now I've come full circle because I love doing client advisory, working with funds and asset managers more strategically and enjoy the legal aspects of running my business.

A-levels: ABB (STEM +General Studies A ) (Had ECs but hard to prove)

Undergrad: Physics BSc @ KCL (RG) - 2:1 (barely- but had very serious ECs second year)

Postgrad: MBA (concentration in finance) with Merit (68%), Passed CFA level 1

Professional Experience:

• 3 Years at a top 5 US Investment Manager, technology + operations (lots of dealing with client proposals, data, and ensuring investment compliance)
• 1 Year in UK House of Commons working as MP staffer (Drafting policy/casework/helping with progression of bills)
• 1.5 Years founding a niche consultancy business while doing a full-time MBA (All the legal business admin)
• Half a year ish as a PE/VC consultant advising fund managers (fund-of-funds/advisory/evaluating LPAs etc)

Law Experience:

• Mini-pupillage at a Civil law Chambers (as a third year undergrad)
• Accredited mediation training
• A couple of Moots
• VP KCL Bar and mooting society
• Shadowing a startup solicitor

I'm aiming for firms with a large Fund/Investment and Private Equity practise, and thinking US firms because they value entrepreneurship and care less about grades...
I'm worried that my A-levels will come back to bite me- so I'm not applying to MC.
I interview well and have lots of commercial awareness from finance but feel like I can never outrun my grades.

Any feedback or tips would be appreciated!

Hi,

I'm starting this to increase my resilience and hopefully my chances of success. I'm currently doing a law conversion and this is my first proper cycle (I did maybe 3 random applications last year though). I'm starting this to hopefully see my progress!!

I'm motivated to secure a vacation scheme this cycle, and eventually to secure a TC. Documenting the journey will hopefully allow me to see where I'm going wrong and motivate me.

Here's where I'm at as of 16th December 2025:

• Hogan Lovells - rejection post-Job Simulation/VI in Nov
• Taylor Wessing - rejection post-initial assessment (today!)
• Ashurst - rejection post-initial assessment (Oct)
• Mayer Brown - rejection post-VI (Dec)
• HSFK - rejection post-initial assessment (Nov)
• Bird & Bird - rejection (Nov)
• Simmons & Simmons post-initial assessment (Nov)

More recent & pending:

• Stephenson Harwood - app done
• Cleary - app & WG done
• Pennington Manches Cooper- app done
• Charles Russell Speechlys - app done
• Osborne Clarke - app & WG/SJT done
• DLA Piper (Dublin) - app&WG/SJT done
• White & Case - App & SJT done
• Eversheds - App & WG done
• Norton Rose Fulbright - App & assessment done
• Addleshaw - app & assessment done
• Dentons -app & assessment done
• Skadden - app done

Intending to apply for Mills & Reeve, potentially Paul, Weiss this week.

Also made it to the Skadden written exercise on Thursday!

Also... the TCLA courses have already helped me improve my applications & confidence in WG etc so much, definitely noticing big big improvements so thank you very much!!!

onwards & upwards !

Hi everyone, it's my 5th cycle with only 1 AC to show for all 5 years and I was wondering when it would be time to give up? Surely firms will think there's something wrong with me if they realise I've submitted failed applications to them for the last 4 years in a row, or that my profile shows I've obviously been aiming for TCs for years without succeeding?

Hi All,

Thought I would sign up here for a bit of accountability and to share some ideas with likeminded people.

I am a 36 year old father of three, currently looking to make a career change from policing to commercial law.

Background

Didn't do particularly well throughout my academic career, 1 A, 3 B's and the rest C's at GCSE. Similar story at A-Level, finishing with ABC. Ended up making a last minute change from a Nursing degree and ended up going through clearing and studying Law at Nottingham Trent University. Lacklustre performance continued and I ended up graduating in 2011 with a low 2.1 (61). Like many before (and after) me I thought I could make up for this overall lack of dedication by doing an LLM, so I opted for a Masters in International Commercial and Business Law at the University of East Anglia. I really applied myself to this and came away with a Distinction (73) and the award for the top student. I managed to secure a role as a paralegal at Mills & Reeve but suffered massively from imposter syndrome and a general lack of confidence, I genuinely thought I would never be good enough to get a TC and so ended up joining the Metropolitan Police Service as a Police Officer.

Current Situation

I have now served in the police service for over 12 years, the last 6 being as an Armed Response Officer, and I genuinely think I have developed some strong transferable skills for a career in commercial law. Specifically teamwork, communication, resilience and decision-making under pressure. So it is now with a renewed sense of direction that I am trying again to secure a TC at a commercial law firm. I know it is going to be an incredibly difficult process given my academic background and if I ever make it to an interview there will be some questions around my career path and commitment to law so I will have to make sure I'm prepared.

Applications

So far I have been focusing my applications based on firms that I like the sound of and that don't focus on academic requirements. I have also focused on ones with upcoming deadlines so I can get an early indication on how my applications are being viewed. Also, while salary isn't the biggest priority, I can't afford to be taking too much of a pay cut at this stage in my life...

As it stands I have applied for:

• Addleshaw Goddard
• Taylor Wessing
• Gowling WLG
• Kennedys
• Mishcon de Reya
• Clifford Chance
• Freshfields
• Linklaters
• Davis Polk
• Norton Rose Fulbright

I have completed online assessments for Addleshaw Goddard, Taylor Wessing, Gowling WLG, Clifford Chance, Freshfields, Linklaters and Norton Rose Fulbright. I had an email saying I passed the Clifford Chance Watson Glaser so just waiting on an application review from them.

Got rejected pretty quickly from Freshfields which was understandable given my academics and probably a good indication that MC firms are a pipe dream.

So yeh, that's me in a nutshell. If anyone else is in a similar boat or has any wisdom to share then please get in touch!

Hey People!

Welcome to my hall of f(sh)ame!

For both accountability and easy tracking of updates in a space where I can't be found, I am starting this thread to keep track of all my applications for this cycle.

Who am I?
I am an international student, dipping my toes properly in big law applications this time. I am about to graduate in Technology Law.
While I tried applying for a few firms' last cycle (my first year in the UK), I was unsuccessful for the reasons I now know why (I didn't do any research or knew how to make a solid application). So, ideally, this is the FIRST CYCLE in my books!

But I am learning and preparing myself better every passing day. And, this would be a space where I document all my successes and failures, coz I love myself some journaling. I hope to keep this space updated regularly, and I would appreciate it if you could comment for an update and hold me accountable.

(Note: If you read this and would like to have some insights into some of my successful applications, please feel free to reach out! Wishing you the best of luck throughout this cycle, fingers crossed!)

Open Days: (only the ones that involved the application and selection process)​

Successful Outcomes:​

1. Linklaters (An evening with Linklaters)
2. Hogan Lovells (RAEHL Open Day)
3. HSF Kramer (Digital Open Day)
4. Reed Smith (TS Open Day)
5. RPC (Insights Day)
6. Mishcon De Reya (Social Mobility Open Day, Race Equality Open Day)
7. Akin (Ask Akin Virtual Open Day)
8. Norton Rose Fulbright and Freshfields - Targetjobs "Self-made in Law" event

PFO:

1. BCLP - Race for Change
2. Macfarlanes - dinner with partner
3. DLA Piper - Discovery Day
4. Weil - Insight Day
5. Baker McKenzie - Open Day
6. Skadden - Open Day
7. Covington Litigation Workshop
8. Willkie Open Day

(As of October 30, I am awaiting my results for the Latham And Watkins Open Day. I cleared the first round of the test, and got invited to the second test and VI)

Other such events I attended to know the firms, which were not application-based:​

1. Slaughter and May - London Evening
2. Jones Day - Open Evening
3. Travers Smith - London Presentation
4. Clifford Chance - One Firm Global Strategy Event (upcoming)
5. Dentons - UKELA careers meeting (upcoming)
6. Burges Salmon at UKELA event (upcoming)
7. Ropes and Gray - London Presentation (upcoming)
8. Lewis Silkin - Open Evening (upcoming)

Winter Vacation Scheme:​

1. Covington - Results Awaiting
2. Cleary Gottlieb - application in process

Spring/Summer Vacation Scheme:​

1. TBC

Hi everyone! This will be my 4th application cycle and am truly hoping that it would be my last :") I was inspired by the threads created by everyone from previous years and have always wanted to post one myself but was always too afraid to. But this year, I decided that enough was enough and wanted to hold myself accountable as I would really like to be employed!

I am a recent graduate from a RG uni but got a low 2:1 (62%) unfortunately, and had really low first and second year grades due to serious mitigating circumstances. However, during my final year I worked incredibly hard to get high 2:1s and a first so that I could get an overall 2:1 I'm also currently studying for my SQE1 which I'll be taking in January so will have to be very productive with my time.

In my most recent application cycle, I was able to make it to Bristows' virtual interview stage but unfortunately was rejected in the end However, I am very determined this time around and am looking forward towards being more intentional with the firms I apply to, so that I can craft better quality answers I also intend to really work on my WG/verbal reasoning/deductive reasoning tests as I usually get rejected after this stage...

Here are the firms I intend to apply to this year (for now):
- Osborne Clarke (my dream law firm but didn't apply to them last year because I was too insecure about my grades)
- Taylor Wessing
- Bristows
- Ashurst
- Simmons & Simmons

Life has been incredibly tough so far but I believe we can get towards our dreams/successes and get employed! Let's work hard together friends!!

After mulling it over for the last couple of weeks, I've decided to start a thread here to try and hold myself accountable and maybe get to know others in the TCLA community this way. I also want to share my experiences going down this challenging career path in the hopes that it might inspire others just as others' stories have inspired me. I did a wee introduction in the other sub-forum last week but I will share some extra, and I believe, relevant details here.

I graduated in 2020 with a 2:1 Scots Law degree, which is four years long and considered non-law in England & Wales. My university uses a unique grading system, and they've issued official guidance that it should not and cannot be adequately converted into a percentage scoring system, giving me plenty of headaches.

Anyway, only certain courses in 3rd and 4th Year counted for my degree classification, and, as far as I can reasonably convert my grades, I have several 2:2 modules and even two 3rd modules throughout the four years. It doesn't help that I had no awareness of the concept of extenuating circumstances back then either, and had always accepted that my grades were me reaping what I had sown, but I now know better and try to make points about extenuating circumstances in my applications.

This has been a source of frustration over concerns about my eligibility for many VSs and TCs, but I've finally accepted that I can't change these grades. I can only look ahead and sell my other experiences. I didn't do much in terms of extracurriculars during university either because I lived at home and had my main interests in cooperative online video games. Video games have given me invaluable transferable skills such as teamwork, organisation, resilience, communication, conflict resolution, and learning. I think it's always difficult to sell video games as a source of transferable skills but I'll break a glass ceiling here if I have to.

I have also since worked outside of law, volunteered locally, and tried to improve myself in other aspects since my last application cycle in 2019-20. It is now up to me to present the skills and experiences that I do have as best I can in my written applications.

As of today, I'm having some friends and family help review my cover letter for NRF's WVS ahead of tomorrow's deadline (thank god they're non-rolling), and I have attended a series of virtual events both open-access and through applications. As this will be my first VS/TC application of the cycle, I'm keeping my fingers crossed for it.

In the weeks ahead, I'm looking to apply for Open Days and VSs with mostly US firms as I sincerely believe deep down, after a lot of reflection, that they have the best cultural fit for me, in spite of my subpar grades and extracurriculars.

And just to end this post on a small win (I wouldn't have said this five years ago, but I think the small wins should be celebrated), my application for Skadden's Open Day was accepted and I'm actually quite excited for it!

Thank you for reading up to this point as it's a lot and please look forward to the next update!

Hi all, I am a recent graduate and I wanted to keep this thread active as a way to keep myself accountable. I am fortunate enough to have strong academics, and so right now my goal is to get as many interviews as possible. I am hoping for the best.

Applications (To send before October):
Gibson Dunn
HSF
Paul, Weiss
Latham and Watkins Open Day
Hogan Lovells
NRF

Applications: (Already Sent)
1. Sidley Austin
2. Slaughter and May (HK)
3. Macfarlanes


Rejections:
1. Paul, Weiss Open Day
2. HSF Open Day

Success:
1. TCLA x Willkie Open Day
2. Jones Day Interview

Hey all,

For both accountability purposes and because I thought it might be interesting, I am starting this thread to keep track of all my applications for this cycle!

A bit of background information on me: I graduated last year from a RG university with a first, studying law. I have since worked as a paralegal at a nationally operating firm. While I did submit a couple of applications last year, I am treating this as my first “real” cycle. I did, however, attend two open days last year. I now plan on giving it my all this year and to see what comes of it, if anything!

I will try to post on here periodically or when I have any significant updates - so far, I have submitted my application for Sidley’s Winter Vacation Scheme (first application of this cycle!)

Wishing anyone who reads this thread the best of luck throughout the cycle – I really do hope that we all receive some good news this year <3

Hi!

I am a third year RG law student. I had just unsuccessfully completed my first application cycle and I was down in the dumps. I had convinced myself that I would never apply again because this career is just not for me. For context, I am an introvert and I get quite anxious in social situations, but I enjoy law and legal work and I really do want to become a solicitor. But all my life I have been told that it was not suitable for me as it was a very people-facing role. The last application cycle rejection just reinforced this doubt in my head that I could never be this person. Especially since last year I went way out of my comfort zone, networking and putting myself in every possible social situation. I got to the AC for HSF and I was so excited and I had just started believing I could do it, until the rejection crashed all my hope. I know I am late to this application cycle but I have been reading everyone's journeys on this forum, and it has helped me gain to courage to keep moving forward, and keep trying and begin again.

So I am starting my second cycle today, knowing that my journey will be filled with ups and downs and that I have to stay resilient. In this thread, I will update my application progress and plans weekly, as well as improve my commercial awareness by posting daily business news analysis.

My Goals for this month:
- Apply for the Macfarlanes Vac Scheme
- Apply for two open days to firms I am interested in
- Daily Commercial Awareness Updates
- Do three forage simulations so I can learn more about the role
- Practice WG and VI

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!!!

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

Hello everyone!!
As the new application cycle is approaching, I have decided to create my own thread and keep myself accountable.
A bit about me: I am an international student who recently graduated with a 2:1 from a non-RG uni and 3 Bs at A levels (was still getting used to the UK system at the time ). I was involved in some extracurricular activities while at uni: Secretary and Treasurer of my uni's law society (2nd and 3rd year), VC of the volleyball team, campus ambassador for an organisation. I also have some office and customer service experience (through part-time jobs).

My goal in this new cycle is for it to be my last. I didn't take this (2024/2025) cycle as seriously as I was focused on my grades. I applied to 5 firms, got 1 PFO post app, 3 post online test, and 1 post interview. I learned that I need to improve my commercial awareness and video interviewing skills. My applications could also be more tailored.

MY PLAN
I'm not fully sure what kind of firm I want to work in yet as I don't have any formal legal work experience yet, so I plan to apply to a range of them:

Vacation Schemes
HSF Kramer-
Pinsent Masons-
Reed Smith-
Addleshaw Goddard-
Osborne Clarke-
Gowling-
Trowers & Hamlins-

Direct Training Contract
DAC Beachcroft-
Womble Bond Dickinson (DTC)-
Kingsley Napley-
CMS-
Wedlake Bell-
Wiggin-
HFW-
RPC-
TLT-

Key: = application submitted; = test received; = Invited to 2nd test/met benchmark; = Written Exercise; = VI; = rejection; = Assessment Centre

MY ACTION PLAN

• Listen to the FT news briefing everyday. I have already started creating this habit so I could get a better understanding of commercial news and how they affect clients and law firms. I think what I'm struggling with now is how to communicate that in interviews and stuff.
• Practice each type of psychometric test at least once a week. I am currently using Graduate First and Assessment day.
• Pre-draft my 'why law', 'why commercial law', 'why me', and 'why this firm'. I think this will help me write applications faster. The first three can be applied to all firms and I can tweak the last one to whatever question the firm asks about them.
• Create an application timetable. I currently gave myself 3 applications per month so we'll see how feasible that will be.
• Create and experience and interview questions bank. Most firms ask for similar, if not the same, skills and/or experience so I think it'll more efficient to get this done early (though I've only actually started the experience bank haha)

NB: I am going to be working full time (like 30-45 hrs) while doing this so I'm not fully sure how I am going to be balancing it all. Pray for me *fingers crossed*. I'll try to post an update every now and again just to make sure I'm actually doing the work!
Also, if anyone has any other tips for preparing for the cycle beforehand, let me know. Please and thanks!

Hi everyone!

I've been reading some TC threads on here, which inspired me to start my own! For some background, I just graduated from an RG uni with a 2:1. I've applied for vacation schemes in my second and third years but none of the applications passed the first stages. In hindsight, I was feeling very lost for the past three years: I am coming from a low socio-economic background, attended a state comprehensive school, first generation university graduate, and neither of my parents have ever stepped foot in corporate. These factors really affected my confidence, as I was surrounded by peers coming from backgrounds entirely different from my own. However, I have still largely participated in the life at university, and held some really good society positions. I also have experience in office-based roles, legal advice roles, hospitality and customer service.

Now I'm back home and preparing for the next application cycle. So far I have:

• Been working on reframing my mindset regarding my background (it's a fake it till you make it situation sometimes, but I'm working on it!).
• Created a list of prospective firms I'd like to apply to. I am re-applying to some firms and adding others to my list.
• Started conducting a more in-depth research on firms from my list.
• Re-assessed my motivations for pursuing corporate law and law in general.
• Been reading and engaging more with news in attempts to improve my commercial awareness.
• Reached out to future and current trainees from 2 firms I'm interested in.

My goals:

• Improve my commercial awareness. To do this, I keep a digital commercial awareness diary, where I record news stories that interest me, summarise them, reflect on why I find them interesting, and how do they relate to law firms. I've already been recording at least one story every day.
• Improve my application technique. To do this, I will review my previous applications and analyse where do I think I went wrong. The goal is to review 1-2 applications weekly.
• Practice Watson Glaser. This is self-explanatory.
• Create better firm profiles. I want to understand the firms I'm applying to on a deeper level. To do this, I will research firm strategy, recent deals, recent hires, clients, and learn what actually differentiates the firms I'm applying to.

On my firm criteria:

• Must have a strong presence in at least one of the sectors I'm interested in: real estate, technology (including fintech and crypto), and / or financial services.
  • I find a lot of topics interesting, but these are some that I naturally gravitate towards usually.
• Must have an international presence.
• Ideally, it will offer either a client or an international secondment.

To be honest, it is a bit difficult establishing my criteria - I haven't been successful in the past, and I feel like I don't really have the privilege of being selective here. However, I am sure that as I continue my research, I will remove some firms from my prospective list. My goal is about 15 applications.

Finally, I am considering a TCLA subscription. It's quite pricey, so I've been indecisive, but it seems to have a lot of benefits.

This is the start of my diaries. If anyone has any comments or advise, I'd love to hear it. Good luck in the next application season!

Hey everyone,

I have been thinking for quite some time to write about this journey because nothing good comes from just within. I thought that this could be an area where I can remember to apply and actually hold myself accountable. In terms of my background, I am about to graduate from a decent RG university, I have good grades, I have a vac scheme at a reputable firm and I also have middle east experience, where I have interned at 3 UK/US firms in the MENA region and one MENA firm where I gained experiences into a lot of different practice areas.

Aspirationally, I know I want to experience corporate and finance seats, but I also want the opportunity to go for competition and tech seats. So its very wide and I do tailor my applications depending on the firm's strengths but I find myself interested in these areas for certain.

I have done 2 cycles, my first cycle I wrote 9 or so meh applications and received one VS. However, after not converting my VS into a TC, I felt some concern as an international student and academically, but I also knew that I could work hard to ensure I get to that place. This cycle I wrote 18 applications, and I actually liked a few of them. However, I only got one VI, a few test invites (which I then messed up due to issues in prioritisation), but ultimately I learnt a lot. For example, I learnt that Jones Day really does get back to you within 15 days, was pleasantly surprised there.

I know theres a good amount of Direct TCs still open, and seeing as a lot of firms align with my practice area interests, I will be getting back into applying to them properly. I have 10 applications remaining, and these are the ones I am considering:

Reed Smith
Eversheds
RPC
WFW
HFW
Macfarlanes
White & Case
Stephenson Harwood

I'm going to set a time on the weekend where I talk to you all about the processes and what I did in the week.

Amat victoria curam.