What’s the timeline like for training contracts?

[D.Cole]

I’m currently applying for training contracts having failed to secure any spring and summer vacation schemes. I’m a little concerned, though, that it’s too late to apply for TCs - that you need to apply for deadlines in the autumn/winter and unless you are truly exceptional (ie worked in a high powered finance role and are now switching to law or something) it’s unlikely you’ll be offered an interview now. Indeed, I applied for two silver circle firms two months ago and haven’t heard anything.

Does anyone know if my concerns are unfounded? What is the timeline for training contracts like? Do they tend to review on a rolling basis and get back to you within a few weeks or do they leave it until summer, once they’ve done all their vac schemes? Has anyone heard back from any firms?

Thanks!

 

[S30]

Hi D.Cole,

You may find this link useful when applying to direct training contracts, it states what firms are rolling basis/non-rolling basis.

https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....rms-recruit-on-a-rolling-basis-2018-2019.629/

Good luck!

 

[m24]

Hello!

The general trend is that firms are moving away from direct training contract applications later in the cycle (Spring/Summer) and are instead focusing their recruitment in the Autumn/Winter periods.

However, many medium/small firms still rely on late-cycle applications and there are a number of large firms (ex. Freshfields, NRF, White & Case) which recruit from their summer TC window.

That being said, it really depends on which firms you are interested in and also what stage you are at.

Here are two helpful threads which may answer your question:

https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/summer-training-contract-deadlines.1217/

https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/training-contract-applications.735/page-4

 

[Helena]

Hello!

The general trend is that firms are moving away from direct training contract applications later in the cycle (Spring/Summer) and are instead focusing their recruitment in the Autumn/Winter periods.

However, many medium/small firms still rely on late-cycle applications and there are a number of large firms (ex. Freshfields, NRF, White & Case) which recruit from their summer TC window.

That being said, it really depends on which firms you are interested in and also what stage you are at.

Here are two helpful threads which may answer your question:

https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/summer-training-contract-deadlines.1217/

https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/training-contract-applications.735/page-4

This is interesting. Do you know which firms are definitely focussing on the Autumn/Winter for direct TCs ? I understand Clifford Chance is one as the window closes in December but I am not sure which others make this direct distinction. I would be interested to know if you have any further information.