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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

I haven’t received an e-mail from CC yet post application and WG, but when i check on the app portal it says “archived” so should I assume pfo?
You might be in a on hold position. CC tends to put people on hold in previous years if they think you have a strong application. If someone fails their VI/AC, you might get the chance.
 
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With the SQE route, you can get SQE by being a Paralegal too to be fair, so don't worry so much.
There are other routes to becoming a lawyer as well in a worst case scenario.

Bakers likes to hire accountants as tax associates so you can potentially go from accounting to tax law. It would however mean specialising in tax and it isn't guaranteed either.

 
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There are other routes to becoming a lawyer as well in a worst case scenario.

Bakers likes to hire accountants as tax associates so you can potentially go from accounting to tax law. It would however mean specialising in tax and it isn't guaranteed either.

As a Big Four tax associate, I would strongly advise caution when considering this route. The chartered accountant/tax adviser exams are definitely not easy!
 
Simple answer: Yes. Goal is to get a TC.
Stupid question then but if you're a tax associate, wouldn't it be easier to apply for tax law roles directly? I assume most non-TC roles don't require the huge level of effort and assessment centres that are required from TC applications.

And then potentially you could move to another area of law once you qualify.
 
Stupid question then but if you're a tax associate, wouldn't it be easier to apply for tax law roles directly? I assume most non-TC roles don't require the huge level of effort and assessment centres that are required from TC applications.

And then potentially you could move to another area of law once you qualify.
Tax associates at B4 firms are not qualified lawyers, and our roles (at least mine) aren't 100% legal related. I do a lot of data analytics work as well.

I am not sure you can easily move to another area of law once you qualify (e.g. I don't think it's easy to move from tax to DR).
 
As a Big Four tax associate, I would strongly advise caution when considering this route. The chartered accountant/tax adviser exams are definitely not easy!
Are you qualified or training to be a tax associate? Someone on my vac scheme tot an audit grad scheme at big 4 started in September but had a tc offer to start see next September so will quit 1 year into ACA. Cannot defer his entry to get the full 3 years.
 
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Yh I know. Few of my friends work in audit, tax and consulting. They’re not a huge fan of the ACA (if that’s what you’re doing). Would you leave before the 3 year training program if you got a tc or stick it out?
I am almost done with my exams (ATT CTA) so I will probably finish them. I still consider the qualifications to be valuable as they might turn into side jobs in the future!
 

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