TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[lelezb1]

From my understanding, not at all! I spoke to grad rec at a Legal Cheek event, and they stated they interview in batches which is why the deadline is rolling, but the deadline is still over a month away (24th Nov I think), so you could get an interview in the next batch if you apply soon! I applied a few days ago after an insight afternoon, and grad rec recommended this approach to me.

Thank you for sharing this.

 

[Deek14]

I applied to HFW in July 2025 for their direct TC 2026/2027 and got rejected in August 2028. Since this is very recent and nothing much as changed, I was wondering whether its worth it to apply again for TC 2028/2029? I am also aware that they hire on a rolling basis and since I had applied at the very last moment fpr 2026/2027, that might be the reason for my rejection.

 

[SamiyaJ]

I applied to HFW in July 2025 for their direct TC 2026/2027 and got rejected in August 2028. Since this is very recent and nothing much as changed, I was wondering whether its worth it to apply again for TC 2028/2029? I am also aware that they hire on a rolling basis and since I had applied at the very last moment fpr 2026/2027, that might be the reason for my rejection.

Hey,

It’s absolutely worth applying. I applied for the TC last November and I made it to the AC.

If you submit an application soon then it will probably be in the “early bunch of apps”, so it will definitely be considered. Just make sure your app isn’t identical to your last app and it shows some growth/deeper knowledge than before!

Best of luck x

 

[Deek14]

Hey,

It’s absolutely worth applying. I applied for the TC last November and I made it to the AC.

If you submit an application soon then it will probably be in the “early bunch of apps”, so it will definitely be considered. Just make sure your app isn’t identical to your last app and it shows some growth/deeper knowledge than before!

Best of luck x

Thanks for the advice! xx

 

[nonlaw123489]

Hi! Is Freshfields’ test automatic?

 

[lelezb1]

Hi! Is Freshfields’ test automatic?

If you meet the eligibility criteria, then you’ll receive it!

 

[TCLAAAA]

CMS wgt invite

 

[Andrei Radu]

For anyone applying to Travers Smith for their Direct TC, the maximum word count for a cover letter is 1000 words on the Vantage platform, but the one I drafted on Word was around 650. What is your best advice? Should I aim for the 1000 words?

Unless the total available word count is very high, you should generally be aiming to utilise the majority of it. Recruiters have told me that otherwise: (i) other candidates will have an advantage over you simply because they will have discussed more experiences in more depth and will have analysed their motivations and skills in more detail; and (ii) that you will be disadvantaged in that recruiters may infer that you have not put in enough effort to make your cover letter as good as possible. As such, I think you should definitely be aiming to at least reach the 950ish word count range.

To get there without being verbose or unnecessarily dragging your points, I would consider:

• Ensuring you analyse all experiences you mention using a fully-fleshed out STAR structure
• Going more in-depth in analysing the firm's USPs: for instance, instead of just mentioning a Chambers ranking for a practice area, you could discuss a deal/case it worked on, its client base, other awards and rankings, notable lateral hires and practitioners, and draw comparisons with main rivals.

 

[yk1906]

If you meet the eligibility criteria, then you’ll receive it!

Thanks! How long did it take you to receive the test? I'm pretty sure I meet the requirements

 

[lelezb1]

Thanks! How long did it take you to receive the test? I'm pretty sure I meet the requirements

I got it after 8 days. Hopefully, you’ll get yours soon!

 

[dlc3266]

Does McDermott have strict grade requirements (eg high 2.1)? Cant find information regarding eligibility anywhere on their website

 

[justkeepswimming]

Does the freshfield direct training contract application require a personal statement or any written component

 

[Prudentia]

Is anyone else approaching associates/partners from the law firms they’re thinking of applying to for tips and advice? I’ve asked a senior associate at one of the MC firms I’m applying to and have a meeting with them next week to discuss the application and hopefully gain some useful tips.

 

[qian]

Hello, I would like to ask if Walker Morris and CMS offer summer vacation schemes for final year law student?

 

[Deek14]

I completed the first stage of Irwin Mitchell’s direct TC which was an online assessment along with video interview. I have received my feedback report which says that my top strengths are pride (commitment to excellence) and time optimiser. The lowest scoring strength was critical reasoning. Does anyone has any insight on what IM prioritises? I have given various SJT tests and have received different feedbacks but I never understand what a firm prioritises or gives more importance to.
Any insight or feedback on this would be appreciated!

 

[lawyergal101]

Hi everyone! Just did the A&O assessment and not sure what to make of my feedback. Would anyone be willing to share theirs? Feel free to PM!

 

[hmevey]

Hey guys, i was going to apply to OC via DTC route but I think they hire mainly through their VS. Has anyone got through on a DTC/knows of anyone or should i give up ...

 

[SamiyaJ]

Anyone heard back from CMS post WG?

 

[AnonTC]

Hi everyone,
May be controversial but I’m just looking for some thoughts.
I was very fortunately offered a TC in a good firm that I really like (firm 1) this Summer. I accepted but haven’t done anything with them yet as it commences 2027. Recently I have started a full time Paralegal role whilst I wait. Whilst I know I am in a very fortunate position and have worked very hard for my TC, there is one firm that I consider to be “the one that got away”. (Firm 2) The practice areas between the firms are mostly similar but Firm 2 offers some very specific stuff that firm 1 does not, and I keep overthinking about stumping my career growth into something quite a bit different with Firm 1. therefore I am wondering if I should apply again to firm 2 this year. It would be the same year entry and same city so I wouldn’t lose anything, but I am just not sure. Plus I am working full time now. Any advice welcome please.

 

[Lawlawland]

Hi, can someone guide me on where I can practice the Links Capp test? And how tough is their WGT?