TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2024-5

adrian_nlh

Distinguished Member
Feb 22, 2023
54
118
has anyone else applied to fried frank's TC? if so, does anyone know what the word limit is supposed to be for the questions? The cover letter entry states a 500 word limit but there is no mention for the other 3 questions. There also isn't a maximum word entry in the boxes. I figured the best is just to go for the standard 300 limit but does anyone have any further insight?
Hiya. Me again.

I've had a look, and I genuinely don't think there is a limit. I think anything over 300 words is a bit much, but I did about 300 for the first question; just under 200 for the second; and about 220 for the third, yet still got to the first stage interview, I think it's more to do with the content and quality of your answers. Just aim for about 200-300 words for each answer and you should be solid.
 

optimistic_undergrad

Active Member
  • Mar 30, 2025
    18
    19
    Hiya. Me again.

    I've had a look, and I genuinely don't think there is a limit. I think anything over 300 words is a bit much, but I did about 300 for the first question; just under 200 for the second; and about 220 for the third, yet still got to the first stage interview, I think it's more to do with the content and quality of your answers. Just aim for about 200-300 words for each answer and you should be solid.
    Can I dm you to discuss the Fried Frank application a bit more?
     

    SamiyaJ

    Legendary Member
    Gold Member
    Premium Member
    Apr 16, 2024
    232
    616
    Hi guys,

    I hope you’re all well!

    I’m not posting much nowadays as life is hectic (same as everyone else tbh) and my mental health has taken a bit of a toll.

    In terms of applications, I am waiting to hear back from Mayer Brown (pretty sure it’s a PFO as my SJT results weren’t great), Farrer & Co and HFW TC post apps. Need to do some more applications but I have PGDL exams coming up so I’m busy with revision.

    In terms of work- I have a good job with decent salary, but we were recently hit with the bombshell that a lot of redundancies are coming as the organisation has to cut millions from the budget by 1 Jan 2026!!! So now that’s another worry.

    Probably will sound like such an entitled brat saying this but I’ve had a look for any legal positions available and they either require 50 years of legal experience, or the money is terrible. I don’t mind taking a bit of a cut but the salaries being offered are abysmal and I need money to live and also pay for uni!! So I am thinking of looking for another non-legal position in the meantime, but I’m worried it would give a negative impression on my commitment to law when doing applications.

    If there’s any advice anyone can give then I’ll really appreciate it, but I just wanted to get this off my chest 😭
     

    TCLA Community Assistant

    Legendary Member
    TCLA Moderator
    Gold Member
    Graduate Recruitment
    Premium Member
    Forum Team
    Aug 1, 2019
    15,526
    21,761
    Is it possible for a firm to give you a TC offer if they liked you on your VS interview well enough ?
    It can happen - its not common though, many firms would want you to go through a TC recruitment process. But I have known a small number of people get TC offers having come through a VS recruitment process successfully.
     

    jacksollaf

    Legendary Member
    Dec 17, 2024
    272
    540
    Hey everyone, quick question about King & Spalding post-AC.

    1- I suppose no one has heard yet right?
    2- I sent an email regarding reimbursement for travels (they said they would reimburse up to 100 pounds). Has anyone requested a reimbursement? I sent an email regarding that but haven't received a reply yet, and to be fair I had to actually travel to get there for the AC; anyone had any responses yet or should I just wait ?

    thanks!
     

    y3920

    Standard Member
    Mar 11, 2020
    8
    24
    Hey everyone, quick question about King & Spalding post-AC.

    1- I suppose no one has heard yet right?
    2- I sent an email regarding reimbursement for travels (they said they would reimburse up to 100 pounds). Has anyone requested a reimbursement? I sent an email regarding that but haven't received a reply yet, and to be fair I had to actually travel to get there for the AC; anyone had any responses yet or should I just wait ?

    thanks!
    Hi there! I just got a call from them an hour ago inviting me to the final stage. Re reimbursement they haven't relied to me yet.
     
    T

    Tintin06

    Guest
    going into the Easter bank holidays with no news from either BM or HL…

    As of the end of the bank holidays it will have been nearly 3 months of no news from HL post-app and deadline. It is getting a bit ridiculous.
    They do prioritise Vac Scheme attendees. They give them c85% of TCs? So we’re dealing with small numbers. Maybe 5-10 direct Training Contracts left. Some DTC only firms still open. Fried Frank along with Paul Hastings. There’s also some other firms open.
     
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