TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Andrei Radu]

@Jaysen @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu and anyone else that can help!

I was considering applying to Freshfields direct TC this year (final year student) after being rejected for the summer vacation scheme last cycle. Considering that there is no longer a cover letter, how would you approach I go about this and show that I have taken into account the improvements they suggested after the assessment centre. Also wanted to ask whether anyone has done the online test, and whether there are any video interview questions ?

Thank you !

This is a bit of tricky situation. I think your best bet would be to try to leverage any more recent work experience (even if it is just a Forage one or an Open Day) as an attempt on your part to action their feedback and become a better candidate - see if you can comment on the experience having developed any skills that you were told you could work on after the AC.

 

[LegallyStressedOut]

I sent my Freshfields app on Sunday but have just realised I entered my overall university score incorrectly. Does anyone have an email address for grad rec? Or any advice? It doesn’t let you amend anything on Vantage and I can’t see an email address on the confirmation. Opinions appreciated!! Thank you) @Ram Sabaratnam @Andrei Radu

 

[Deleted member 40373]

do you need to include all module results on slaughter cv or just overall result?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

do you need to include all module results on slaughter cv or just overall result?

Hello!

If the form doesn't explicitly state to include all module results, I would include your overall result and highlight any key modules that you undertook during your degree

 

[lolololol]

has anyone got a response from clifford chance after applying?

 

[legalxp2]

Hi everyone, how long after applying to Freshfields (putting in your info) do you get the tests? I received an email saying I would be sent the tests once it had been confirmed I met the eligibility criteria but how long did people hear back with tests after? Also given they do this check does this mean that the tests are not automatic? Thanks in advance

 

[johnsmith]

has anyone got a response from clifford chance after applying?

Yes! Was asked to provide some additional details via Vantage due to a technical error (was just GCSE/A-level results) and then invited today for a WG which I passed.

Next steps apparently on 8th December if you’re progressed to the video interview stage!

 

[lolololol]

Yes! Was asked to provide some additional details via Vantage due to a technical error (was just GCSE/A-level results) and then invited today for a WG which I passed.

Next steps apparently on 8th December if you’re progressed to the video interview stage!

thabk you, i have not heard back and i applied from the website dk if that makes a difference

 

[Annabellekoll]

Does anyone have any insights into the Freshfields assessment?

 

[norothrow324]

Is the Freshfields assessment automatic? I think they said only successful applicants will get it?

 

[Superfrozone]

Just received the freshfields online test for their direct TC! Any advice would be helpful

 

[flower1]

Hello,
For people who have passed Clifford Chance WG test - what scores were you getting out of 40 in your practice?
Thank you

 

[tarastar]

For the Clifford Chance application, how many points are we expected to make for this question: Tell us about your extra-curricular activities and positions of responsibility or an achievement you are most proud of?

 

[manifestingthetc]

I received an email from Clifford Chance's grad rec team this morning: "We will send you the test in November. In the meantime, you can use our practice link on the ‘how we hire’ page of our website." - I am due to receive the WG test whilst others have received already!

 

[berocca567]

Does anyone have insights on written case studies at interview? How would you go about structuring/ are there any exemplars available so I can see what the writing style is supposed to be?

 

[tarastar]

Does anyone have insights on written case studies at interview? How would you go about structuring/ are there any exemplars available so I can see what the writing style is supposed to be?

Is this for the Slaughter’s interview, if so, when did you hear back! I found this on TCLA: https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....firm-case-studies-monday-article-series.3232/

 

[lawyergal101]

Hi all, I completed the CC application on Saturday and haven’t yet received the WG. Has it been delayed for anyone else?

 

[WeGotThis!]

Does the Freshfields test include a VI? Thank you!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi! Could you guys provide some advice on how to tackle this question: What impact do you want to make at CMS? (200 words) @Abbie Whitlock @Andrei Radu

Hello!

That’s a great question - a good way to approach it is to think about the value you want to bring to CMS and the kind of growth or contribution you hope to have there long-term.

Your structure could potentially look like:

1. What draws you to CMS - e.g. sector focus, innovation, international scope, etc.

2. What you bring - your skills, background, mindset, or experiences that align with their work or values.

3. The impact you want to have - this could be delivering commercial value to clients, contributing to D&I or sustainability initiatives, or supporting cross-border collaboration.

I would try to be authentic but also specific, and make sure you are tailoring it to previous examples where you have demonstrated these skills or values.

I hope that helps!

 

[lawyergal101]

Does anyone know if the CMS WG is timed?