Hi
@Chandana Surthi ,
It’s great to hear you’re interested in applying.
You can apply to opportunities from your home country. I’d just be mindful that not all firms sponsor visas for intl students for vacation schemes (VS). Most people I know of applied to direct training contracts (TC) and were able to secure offers from their home country. I’d also be mindful of the fact that some firms now hold final assessment centre stages in person, and if you don’t have a UK visa/ travel support, it may be difficult to attend these. While some firms are able to happily pay for these costs, it is not always guaranteed. There is also some flexibility as when you explain your situation to the firm, they may allow you to interview online.
Additionally, I know of many people that complete LLMs in the UK, or some other postgraduate course in the UK. That way, if the scheme falls outside your term dates, you’re able to complete a vacation scheme and get considered for a TC. However, ensure to have a solid application strategy such that you will be able to ace that first cycle of applications, since most masters courses are only 1 year. I also know of people that didn’t get TCs in their first masters year, but went on to switch to a graduate visa and start off a paralegal role at great firms. Many were able to get TCs at other firms within those two years of applying, or even at their paralegal firm.
Lastly, I also know of lawyers that have previously done LLMs at prestigious universities in the UK, and who are foreign qualified lawyers, that have been hired directly at NQ level.
Linklaters also offers an Indian Clerkship for Indian students.
Sidley Austin is another firm I know that sponsors visas for vacation schemes.
So in short, there are many possibilities. It’s all about looking within and knowing which best fits your long-term goals and unique circumstances.
Best wishes, and let us know if you’ve got any more questions.
