TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[jacksollaf]

How do you even manage to submit that many in such a short time frame? Think I have sent 8 to 9 applications so far and I am working on 3 currently to submit by the end of November. Bro is just built differently, I need to up my game! 🥲​

Personally, Ai... and I know a lot of people will probably say "yea but it'll sound so generic and lack detail" etc. But not at all... It all comes down to knowing how to use AI.

if you truly know how to use AI, then your answer will appear more human than an actual human 😂 Again, many law firms are integrating AI into their systems, and some are even requiring you use AI for a specific amount of time per year...

Plus in terms of efficiency, I wouldnt want to spend days on an application for it to go straight to junk because I couldn't pass the benchmark on tests; waste of time, energy, for nothing... Because at the end of the day, luck does play a huge role...

I did the same last year and I managed to secure at least 15 AC + interviews.. , and ended up doing a vac scheme..

Plus, assume you pass the SJT WG Assessments; they're going to quickly skim through it, they have hundreds of applications.. so long as it's a powerful answer that looks detailed and non-generic and human, they won't realise (again, that presupposes you're mastering the use of AI... which is what I focused on because Ai isn't going to replace lawyers, but it will replace lawyers who don't know how to use it)... So long as it's good, then it's good... They receive thousands of applications for 10 places, I doubt me spending 10 extra days to do it will heavily impact my chances of getting an AC...

Finally, most firms ask questions that require max 250-300 words... You can't really say as much as your research.... So you have to give the info to AI and then tell them about what you want to say and they'll do it... it takes literally max 30 mins (so you can follow up, correct, etc.)... it takes me more time to fill out my details and work experience than to answer the questions...

Again, everyone plays the game differently... What matters is that we all succeed, so hopefully we're all successful this cycle and get our choices! 🙏

 

[jacksollaf]

Well I think it depends. A lot of firms now place heavier emphasis on the tests (lots of firms have dropped application questions, and stuff like why commercial law, competency stories etc. can be reused anyway - firms look for very similar skills). You can then do focused, thorough research on the firm before AC.

No strategy is perfect, and 75 is a lot, but I think given how much luck is often required in this process, you do boost your chances by submitting as many applications as you can.

Fair enough... The whole point is for them to like you enough to get through to the AC stage... I wouldn't want to spend days and days researching only to not meet the benchmark ...

 

[jacksollaf]

This is crazy! Gotta respect it. That’s practically one per day.

How many have you progressed with so far?

Last year I did the same and progressed in about 40% .. This year, it's too early to tell, but from what I remember I passed the benchmark for Linklaters, DLA piper, HSF, Clifford Chance, A&O Shearman, and a few others... still waiting .. I got 92 on Linklaters WG (one of the categories I got 99) so im pretty hopeful about that + it's for their dubai vac and I speak three languages and grew up in the GCC for the first 18 years of my life, so hopefully that goes well

 

[abc124]

Fair enough... The whole point is for them to like you enough to get through to the AC stage... I wouldn't want to spend days and days researching only to not meet the benchmark ...

Yes exactly, that's what I was trying to say as well haha

 

[i-want-a-tc]

Personally, Ai... and I know a lot of people will probably say "yea but it'll sound so generic and lack detail" etc. But not at all... It all comes down to knowing how to use AI.

if you truly know how to use AI, then your answer will appear more human than an actual human 😂 Again, many law firms are integrating AI into their systems, and some are even requiring you use AI for a specific amount of time per year...

Plus in terms of efficiency, I wouldnt want to spend days on an application for it to go straight to junk because I couldn't pass the benchmark on tests; waste of time, energy, for nothing... Because at the end of the day, luck does play a huge role...

I did the same last year and I managed to secure at least 15 AC + interviews.. , and ended up doing a vac scheme..

Plus, assume you pass the SJT WG Assessments; they're going to quickly skim through it, they have hundreds of applications.. so long as it's a powerful answer that looks detailed and non-generic and human, they won't realise (again, that presupposes you're mastering the use of AI... which is what I focused on because Ai isn't going to replace lawyers, but it will replace lawyers who don't know how to use it)... So long as it's good, then it's good... They receive thousands of applications for 10 places, I doubt me spending 10 extra days to do it will heavily impact my chances of getting an AC...

Finally, most firms ask questions that require max 250-300 words... You can't really say as much as your research.... So you have to give the info to AI and then tell them about what you want to say and they'll do it... it takes literally max 30 mins (so you can follow up, correct, etc.)... it takes me more time to fill out my details and work experience than to answer the questions...

Again, everyone plays the game differently... What matters is that we all succeed, so hopefully we're all successful this cycle and get our choices! 🙏

I would always advise against this, but you are making sense. Spend 2 weeks on an app, just to fail test or for it to be overlooked because of something small or your academic history. The game is the game. Personally, I will continue tailoring my apps and take my time cause that's what I know. So far my apps are moving past first stage so it's the video interviews that are a challenge. If your strategy works for you, then I'm wishing you all the best.

 

[legallybald]

Links PFO. 99th percentile WG

 

[yk1906]

Links PFO. 99th percentile WG

So sorry... Was that for Winter or?

 

[Prudentia]

Personally, Ai... and I know a lot of people will probably say "yea but it'll sound so generic and lack detail" etc. But not at all... It all comes down to knowing how to use AI.

if you truly know how to use AI, then your answer will appear more human than an actual human 😂 Again, many law firms are integrating AI into their systems, and some are even requiring you use AI for a specific amount of time per year...

Plus in terms of efficiency, I wouldnt want to spend days on an application for it to go straight to junk because I couldn't pass the benchmark on tests; waste of time, energy, for nothing... Because at the end of the day, luck does play a huge role...

I did the same last year and I managed to secure at least 15 AC + interviews.. , and ended up doing a vac scheme..

Plus, assume you pass the SJT WG Assessments; they're going to quickly skim through it, they have hundreds of applications.. so long as it's a powerful answer that looks detailed and non-generic and human, they won't realise (again, that presupposes you're mastering the use of AI... which is what I focused on because Ai isn't going to replace lawyers, but it will replace lawyers who don't know how to use it)... So long as it's good, then it's good... They receive thousands of applications for 10 places, I doubt me spending 10 extra days to do it will heavily impact my chances of getting an AC...

Finally, most firms ask questions that require max 250-300 words... You can't really say as much as your research.... So you have to give the info to AI and then tell them about what you want to say and they'll do it... it takes literally max 30 mins (so you can follow up, correct, etc.)... it takes me more time to fill out my details and work experience than to answer the questions...

Again, everyone plays the game differently... What matters is that we all succeed, so hopefully we're all successful this cycle and get our choices! 🙏

Fair play! I still couldn’t put in 75 applications even with the use of AI, so I tip my imaginary hat to you.

I also completely agree with you about the use of AI. AI is a very powerful, time-saving tool if you know how to prompt it properly.

 

[JasmineM9]

Anyone heard back from W&C re winter scheme? Ready for a rejection 🥹

 

[Alturistic whale]

Anyone who did GD Cappfinity test, how long did it take you to receive a confirmation email?

 

[Alturistic whale]

Links PFO. 99th percentile WG

If there's any consolation LegallyBald, you are a GOAT in my opinion for reaching the 99th percentile for Links WG!

 

[xMontmorency]

Personally, Ai... and I know a lot of people will probably say "yea but it'll sound so generic and lack detail" etc. But not at all... It all comes down to knowing how to use AI.

if you truly know how to use AI, then your answer will appear more human than an actual human 😂 Again, many law firms are integrating AI into their systems, and some are even requiring you use AI for a specific amount of time per year...

Plus in terms of efficiency, I wouldnt want to spend days on an application for it to go straight to junk because I couldn't pass the benchmark on tests; waste of time, energy, for nothing... Because at the end of the day, luck does play a huge role...

I did the same last year and I managed to secure at least 15 AC + interviews.. , and ended up doing a vac scheme..

Plus, assume you pass the SJT WG Assessments; they're going to quickly skim through it, they have hundreds of applications.. so long as it's a powerful answer that looks detailed and non-generic and human, they won't realise (again, that presupposes you're mastering the use of AI... which is what I focused on because Ai isn't going to replace lawyers, but it will replace lawyers who don't know how to use it)... So long as it's good, then it's good... They receive thousands of applications for 10 places, I doubt me spending 10 extra days to do it will heavily impact my chances of getting an AC...

Finally, most firms ask questions that require max 250-300 words... You can't really say as much as your research.... So you have to give the info to AI and then tell them about what you want to say and they'll do it... it takes literally max 30 mins (so you can follow up, correct, etc.)... it takes me more time to fill out my details and work experience than to answer the questions...

Again, everyone plays the game differently... What matters is that we all succeed, so hopefully we're all successful this cycle and get our choices! 🙏

15 + ACs and only one vac scheme? Stop using AI and start prepping interview technique!

 

[Afuturetrainee]

Anyone who did GD Cappfinity test, how long did it take you to receive a confirmation email?

It takes a while but you will get it

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

For Ashurst's summer vac scheme question 'Based on your research of Ashurst, what do you understand to be the biggest opportunity for one of the sectors in which we specialise?', how would you recommend structuring the answer using all 300 words? Thank you!

Hello!

I would structure a strong 300-word answer to Ashurst's question by following a clear framework that shows: (1) you understand the firm, (2) you understand the sector, and (3) you can analyse future opportunities. A good structure could follow something along the lines of:

1. Opening (40-50 words)

Start by briefly stating the sector you've chosen (e.g. energy transition, digital economy, real estate, etc.). Show that you understand Ashurst's strategic focus and global position in the sector - this can involve discussing deals, published insights, or public statements from the firm.

2. Context of the sector (80-100 words)

Move on to explain what key facts or market trends are creating opportunities in that sector. For example:

• Regulatory reform
• Technological disruption
• The global push toward net zero
• Increased private capital deployment
• Geopolitical risk and supply chain restructuring

You can support these points with news articles and current market insights, statistics, or trends - although there is no need to go into huge detail on the specifics!

3. The biggest opportunity (100-120 words)

Identify one major opportunity and go into more detail on it - for example, digital assets regulation or demand for sustainable infrastructure funding.

Whichever opportunity you choose, explain why this is a priority, who the clients are, what problems they need solving, and how the opportunity is likely to evolve over time commercially and legally.

4. How Ashurst is positioned (40-60 words)

Finish your answer by linking the opportunity to Ashurst's specific strengths - for example:

• Cross-border capabilities
• Strong regulatory advisory practice
• Financing and project development experience

To wrap up your answer, end with a confident line that shows how the firm can capitalise on this shift!

I hope that helps, and best of luck with the application!

 

[jacksollaf]

15 + ACs and only one vac scheme? Stop using AI and start prepping interview technique!

Forgive me if I'm reading too much into what you're saying, but the tone of your comment proves to be quite a lazy take... You seem to overlook that I said I got 15 ACs, but that doesn't entail that I attended them all; I got a vac scheme offer in early February so I didn't really feel the need to run around attending every AC just for the sake of it; the firm that offered me a vac scheme was higher on the list of priorities for me...

I attended about 4 ACs, and reached the final round interview for a few, including King and Spalding, but the firms had tiny intakes so forgive me for not securing a TC with them 😂 It's hard enough to get an AC so im pretty happy with myself

Idk why you seem more invested, at least from the tone, in tearing others down; hope you're not confusing cynicism for insight and condescension for "tough love"... Again, I hope I'm reading too much into it, but I have seen since last year (especially the whole incident with people attacking TinTin [who ended up deleting his account]) a lot of people who have that same energy... Again, that energy seems to work for some people, because they surprisingly do end up with TCs, but what a nasty environment to work with.

 

[Trophy]

N

I think personally for me its because I have 2 resits due to my health condition but I'm averaging 2.1 overall and I think ,most of the time It depends on luck like for example I was rejected last year from bclp as I applied late and this year I submitted the same application well before the deadline. Plus I also think it is a numbers game as I agree with you VI are not really my forte as I get super nervous and mess things so hopefully taking that into consideration.

Numbers game for sure but definitely take your time you can apply to 20 firms and progress with 7 rather than for example 75 and progress with 1😭 75 is diabolical pls don’t aim for that 😂

 

[shadowboxer909]

Personally, Ai... and I know a lot of people will probably say "yea but it'll sound so generic and lack detail" etc. But not at all... It all comes down to knowing how to use AI.

if you truly know how to use AI, then your answer will appear more human than an actual human 😂 Again, many law firms are integrating AI into their systems, and some are even requiring you use AI for a specific amount of time per year...

Plus in terms of efficiency, I wouldnt want to spend days on an application for it to go straight to junk because I couldn't pass the benchmark on tests; waste of time, energy, for nothing... Because at the end of the day, luck does play a huge role...

I did the same last year and I managed to secure at least 15 AC + interviews.. , and ended up doing a vac scheme..

Plus, assume you pass the SJT WG Assessments; they're going to quickly skim through it, they have hundreds of applications.. so long as it's a powerful answer that looks detailed and non-generic and human, they won't realise (again, that presupposes you're mastering the use of AI... which is what I focused on because Ai isn't going to replace lawyers, but it will replace lawyers who don't know how to use it)... So long as it's good, then it's good... They receive thousands of applications for 10 places, I doubt me spending 10 extra days to do it will heavily impact my chances of getting an AC...

Finally, most firms ask questions that require max 250-300 words... You can't really say as much as your research.... So you have to give the info to AI and then tell them about what you want to say and they'll do it... it takes literally max 30 mins (so you can follow up, correct, etc.)... it takes me more time to fill out my details and work experience than to answer the questions...

Again, everyone plays the game differently... What matters is that we all succeed, so hopefully we're all successful this cycle and get our choices! 🙏

To be fair, I do find law absolutely insane. Writing 1000+ words for an application, doing hours of in-depth research about the firm, and then getting rejected after you screw up a test lol. That annoys me more than it should - please reject me for the content of my application, not because I screwed up a test lol. Rejection either way but it's the principle of it.

I applied for spring weeks and summer internships at Investment Banking firms where all I did was write generic cover letters, write a paragraph about a deal that the firm had worked on and why I liked it, and it got me several interviews.

 

[Trophy]

15 + ACs and only one vac scheme? Stop using AI and start prepping interview technique!

Do you know how hard it is to get a vac scheme? You can be great but Someone is greater don’t me your not worthy of a vac scheme it’s just there isn’t enough space. Don’t put others down because the last time I checked you’re on here as you don’t have a tc.

 

[GiveMeTC2026]

Anyone who reached TI or wg for DLA would love your approach on how you approached question 1 and how much you went into the firm's work or values.

 

[TCLA0322]

I think, as many people on this forum (including Jaysen) have said, the number of firms you apply to really depends on your strategy. I believe it should not be a one size fits all approach. We all have different backgrounds and academic records. For example, a bad grade in one module, limited experience or other factors may mean that some of us need to submit more applications just to reach the AC stage.

Also, the application process is always changing. This cycle has even more online testing elements. Cappfinity only gives you traits to work on, and you do not get any actual scores. The same applies to Watson Glaser, Sova and other assessments, and there is very little transparency in how we are scored. Because of that uncertainty, it is understandable that some people feel the need to apply more widely.

At the end of the day, this community exists so we can exchange experiences and support each other. There is no need to criticise someone else’s approach. As an international student myself, with my clock ticking, sending out more applications genuinely helps me feel more in control and reduces the stress. 😇