TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[jojo23]

If I haven’t received any academic scholarships or prizes , is that bad?

" I don't have a prize because I am the prize"

 

[lawyergal101]

Hi @lawyergal101

Yep, I think that's the case with any law firm application that uses CVmail as the platform. You’re effectively limited to four work experience entries. If you have more than four experiences, you can often group similar ones together; for example, multiple open days can be combined into one entry, or several retail/restaurant roles can be summarised together. That way, you can still showcase a broad range of experience while sticking to the four-entry limit.

Good luck with your application!

That explains a lot - thanks so much!!

 

[CharlesT47]

do people know whether Freshfields do a Vac Scheme in the Winter for graduates? I can't seem to find information regarding it.

 

[jojo23]

do people know whether Freshfields do a Vac Scheme in the Winter for graduates? I can't seem to find information regarding it.

They have in the past apparently but it seems to have been scrapped this year😭

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

I've been quite active here this year so I wanted to share that I've accepted a Training Contract at a dream US firm following a vac scheme Best of luck everyone!

 

[Legal_Eagle91]

I'm happy to share that I've finally secured a TC ! I almost gave up so many times, especially while trying to balance it with a full-time job. Fingers crossed for everyone still waiting to hear back from the previous cycle. If anyone would like any tips/ advice, please feel free to reach out

 

[Jaysen]

I've been quite active here this year so I wanted to share that I've accepted a Training Contract at a dream US firm following a vac scheme Best of luck everyone!

I'm happy to share that I've finally secured a TC ! I almost gave up so many times, especially while trying to balance it with a full-time job. Fingers crossed for everyone still waiting to hear back from the previous cycle. If anyone would like any tips/ advice, please feel free to reach out

 

[Ancika]

Hi! Does anyone remember the video interview questions asked for A&O Shearman last year? Also, how many minutes did you have to answer them?

 

[jojo23]

Are winter schemes considered more competitive or are they all fairly equal to the point where its personal preference?

 

[SoonToBeTrainee]

Are winter schemes considered more competitive or are they all fairly equal to the point where it’s personal preference?

Yeah, exactly that. Any competitiveness between schemes (which can vary between years) is so marginal that it’s a matter of personal preference.
The only real advice is to try and apply to a mix of winter, spring, and summer (if you can / are eligible).