TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[floral.tcla]

please tell me I'm not the only one who keeps getting emails from AOS about the feedback report, every time I open them I think it's the outcome of my application and I panic lol🥲

 

[SamiyaJ]

Does the Hogan Lovells test have a video interview element? or is it just an SJT?

SJT, no video interview element

 

[aspringlawyer25]

please tell me I'm not the only one who keeps getting emails from AOS about the feedback report, every time I open them I think it's the outcome of my application and I panic lol🥲

OMG, same. Not sure what's wrong with their assessment platform

 

[baj5]

Does anyone have insight as to Covington’s application process post submission of the written app?

 

[aspringlawyer25]

Does anyone have insight as to Covington’s application process post submission of the written app?

It's AC after application, and we hear back after application closes on 24th october for the WVS.

 

[aspringlawyer25]

Can anyone provide insight as to whether having passed the SQE is an advantage or disadvantage for applications?

 

[ZNadeem]

Can anyone provide insight as to whether having passed the SQE is an advantage or disadvantage for applications?

Hi! I think the impact of having passed the SQE really depends on the jurisdiction. For international offices (e.g. the Middle East), it can be an advantage or even a requirement, since those offices often expect incoming trainees to be qualified or close to qualification.

For London applications, however, I don’t think it makes a difference either way. Firms design their recruitment processes on the assumption that most applicants won’t have taken the SQE yet. To keep things fair, they aren’t going to favour or disadvantage candidates based on that. What will carry much more weight are your academics, work experience, and the quality of your application.

If anything, having passed the SQE might demonstrate commitment and proactivity in competency questions, but it’s not something that will tip the balance.

 

[aspringlawyer25]

Hi! I think the impact of having passed the SQE really depends on the jurisdiction. For international offices (e.g. the Middle East), it can be an advantage or even a requirement, since those offices often expect incoming trainees to be qualified or close to qualification.

For London applications, however, I don’t think it makes a difference either way. Firms design their recruitment processes on the assumption that most applicants won’t have taken the SQE yet. To keep things fair, they aren’t going to favour or disadvantage candidates based on that. What will carry much more weight are your academics, work experience, and the quality of your application.

If anything, having passed the SQE might demonstrate commitment and proactivity in competency questions, but it’s not something that will tip the balance.

Thanks a lot!

 

[LegallyBrunette_]

I've just been invited to the Jones Day AC which includes a group exercise and a case study interview. If anyone has any tips or insight into how best to prepare and succeed on the day I would really appreciate it!

 

[Maddy]

In the Ashurst feedback report, what are we graded on?

 

[lawyersum]

Is DLA still rolling? Last year it was plastered all over their website that apps are very rolling and will close as soon as there is capacity. Now, there's a clear deadline for apps (21 Nov). Does anyone know?

 

[Kakaboo]

What are law firms looking for when they ask you how you manage competing deadlines? Thanks!

 

[Kakaboo]

I know this is for VS advice but I’ve got no idea where else to ask! I have an interview for a paralegal role at Addleshaw Goddard next week and I have no idea where to turn what to expect or how to prepare? Has anyone got any advice/ been through this? Thanks

 

[tk.42_]

When did everyone schedule their Jones Day interview for?

 

[tk.42_]

I've just been invited to the Jones Day AC which includes a group exercise and a case study interview. If anyone has any tips or insight into how best to prepare and succeed on the day I would really appreciate it!

When was your video interview?

 

[berocca567]

Is the % of people who get Jones Day interviews quite high? How has it been in previous years?