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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

DavidJC

Esteemed Member
Dec 29, 2019
83
186
Does anyone have any tips on writing an Open Day application for Davis Polk?
I normally wouldn't ask but this question has tripped me up a bit as I'm not 100% sure if I can really find 500 words for an Open Day application without waffling.
In the space below please explain why you would like to attend an Insight Day at Davis Polk (Max 500 words)
My interests are very much in finding out about deal origination (US-sourced vs Europe-sourced), proportion of work in certain practice areas (I've seen a video where the previous Training Principal and current Head of Europe talked about their laser focus on corporate finance), exploring the culture in-person, the ratio of on-the-job vs formal training, and how all of these things intertwine. Not sure if I can/should try and personalise every point for an Open Day application either.
 

nbjani

Standard Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Nov 23, 2023
7
9
I think the test is part of the first stage once they assess eligibility from the written application. It’s not selective
There's a second test which has been sent out today - the first one was automatic upon application, and this one seems to have been selective. it seems likely that it's going to be more situational based video answers based on the small amount of info I can find online, so hoping this is the case!
 

Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
130
107
Is it still worth applying for HL WVS, as people are already receiving online test invites + the fact that it is rolling?
Hello!

I would say that it is absolutely still worth applying if you have a strong application to submit before the deadline. Whilst it is advantageous to submit earlier in the application window when the deadline is rolling, it is definitely not impossible to still progress if you submit later on.

However, if you feel you could use the extra time to really refine your application and build your transferable skills, there's no real harm in waiting and applying for the later vacation schemes :)
 

aspiringsolicitor2027

Standard Member
Premium Member
Sep 19, 2024
8
12
Hello!

I would say that it is absolutely still worth applying if you have a strong application to submit before the deadline. Whilst it is advantageous to submit earlier in the application window when the deadline is rolling, it is definitely not impossible to still progress if you submit later on.

However, if you feel you could use the extra time to really refine your application and build your transferable skills, there's no real harm in waiting and applying for the later vacation schemes :)
Thank you!
 
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Reactions: Abbie Whitlock

berocca567

Star Member
Premium Member
Jan 11, 2025
41
25
There's a second test which has been sent out today - the first one was automatic upon application, and this one seems to have been selective. it seems likely that it's going to be more situational based video answers based on the small amount of info I can find online, so hoping this is the case!
but the first one had like 6 parts! there's more????
 
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Reactions: confusedbird

Lawlife5

Active Member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Jan 30, 2023
19
28
Hey!

You should find a relevant article from their Insights Page on their website.

I would pick one that genuinely interests you, and aligns with your personal and professional ambitions :)
Thank you @Abbie Whitlock, in terms of client sector I am not sure which one to choose as I do not have a set sector I am interested in so it is quite difficult to say how it aligns with my ambitions. I have practice areas in mind which would be much easier. Do you have tips on the way to go about this? thank you
 

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