TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Vicky722]

Someone who passed just told you he doesn't add the module breakdown. I suppose it would be similar to Gowling as they weighted more on test, not hollistic approach. I attended their open day too so can confirm.

Thank you!

 

[wooliewoo]

I submitted on the 6th and still haven't received the test. Have you?

I actually have just received the test so hopefully you have too!

 

[Lawlawland]

2 days? the app has closed for over a week for non law. If you're law the wait time would be longer

Last two days of the application deadline, my bad😂

As in the 26-28 bracket...

 

[yk1906]

Any TW PFOs for summer?

 

[crt1s]

Is it just me or has the process of applying to numerous firms been so demoralising, especially this year? I completely understand that the competition is harsh, but the feeling of having to be perfect during every stage of the long 4-5 stage process for a vac is so draining, not to mention that half the firms won't even read the app you spent hours on unless you pass their benchmark or have specifically what they look for. I am so burnt out already, and having received some rejections I feel quite hopeless of securing a TC by the end of university. What's worse is I don't know whether sacrificing some uni work to do these apps will even be worth it. Good luck to everyone, as this process definitely isn't easy 🙃

It’s been a while since I’ve been on here, but saw this post reshared on LinkedIn and wanted to respond.

While I can’t comment on this years cycle, I can confirm that every year is tough. Demanding applications, unhelpful feedback, endless stages and a lack of transparency from most firms.

It’s a marathon not a sprint. It’s easy to get bogged down by a rejection but as trite as it sounds, you’re only one yes away. I appreciate the eagerness to have a TC lined up straight out of uni. I was the same. While some people do. Not everyone’s route is linear. After uni, I got the paralegal job, developed my skills and as result landed the TC, as I was far more confident and had so much more to speak about in apps/interview.

When I would receive a rejection, it always “use it as fuel” mentality. Even if I didn’t always believe it, everything happens for a reason as a result you’ll end up at a firm that is most suited to you. Be patient and easy on yourself.

My DMs are always open

 

[zonnonomo]

lowkey excited to do nrf's arctic shores🤓love pressing some Q-P like a frantic monkey

 

[TCLA Moderator]

Hi everyone,

Tensions tend to run higher around this time of year, with the stress of the application process. Everyone is really helpful to each other and we want to make it stays that way.

If you notice someone is being unhelpful in the forum, you can report the post and we'll be notified. But please don't argue with them in the forum.

Thanks so much and wishing you good luck!

 

[jojo23]

Does the result come out immediately like CC WGT?

Nah, I applied and took the test in oct/Nov...cant remember specifically

 

[elle woods]

Interesting for my OD application, I got self-motivation & effective communication as strengths, but personal responsibility as my development and didn't get invited to the VI - the irony being the roles I have at work are all about taking personal responsibility.

I'm about to cry hahah I keep getting personal responsibility as my area for development - I don't think I'll be making it to the next stage AGAIN 😭 the irony is that, like you, I actively take on positions of responsibility irl and love seeking more work to take ownership of. Haha I think I will be getting a Latham PFO soon 😣

 

[zonnonomo]

I'm about to cry hahah I keep getting personal responsibility as my area for development - I don't think I'll be making it to the next stage AGAIN 😭 the irony is that, like you, I actively take on positions of responsibility irl and love seeking more work to take ownership of. Haha I think I will be getting a Latham PFO soon 😣

imo one of the better weaknesses to get, got invited to macfarlanes ac with the same development area 🤔

 

[yk1906]

I'm about to cry hahah I keep getting personal responsibility as my area for development - I don't think I'll be making it to the next stage AGAIN 😭 the irony is that, like you, I actively take on positions of responsibility irl and love seeking more work to take ownership of. Haha I think I will be getting a Latham PFO soon 😣

But haven’t you got a VS offer? I would suggest you work super hard to convert it to TC instead of worrying about other rejections!! You’ll make it regardless 💪💪

 

[elle woods]

lowkey excited to do nrf's arctic shores🤓love pressing some Q-P like a frantic monkey

haha I love that - do you have any advice on how to prepare for it? I've never even heard of arctic shores before this 😂

 

[zonnonomo]

haha I love that - do you have any advice on how to prepare for it? I've never even heard of arctic shores before this 😂

they are a bunch of mini games that test your reaction time/ alertness more than any other ability imo

so do them when you feel most alert, which for me is 3-4 hours after waking up

being a gamer also helps, i played some valorant matches before attempting gowling's arctic shores & scored 20/20 lol

but if you're not a gamer you could also practice with some online iq games right before jumping in the assessment already fired up 🔥

 

[elle woods]

But haven’t you got a VS offer? I would suggest you work super hard to convert it to TC instead of worrying about other rejections!! You’ll make it regardless 💪💪

I’m definitely going to work as hard as I can to convert the VS, but I guess the nerves don’t stop until a TC is actually secured haha.

I’m also really interested in Latham because of their FinTech work, so it would be great to experience the firm in person through a vac scheme. But thank you for the encouragement 💪💪

 

[manifestingthetc]

I'm about to cry hahah I keep getting personal responsibility as my area for development - I don't think I'll be making it to the next stage AGAIN 😭 the irony is that, like you, I actively take on positions of responsibility irl and love seeking more work to take ownership of. Haha I think I will be getting a Latham PFO soon 😣

If it helps, i received personal responsibility as an area for development and I passed it so I wouldn't worry too much

 

[elle woods]

they are a bunch of mini games that test your reaction time/ alertness more than any other ability imo

so do them when you feel most alert, which for me is 3-4 hours after waking up

being a gamer also helps, i played some valorant matches before attempting gowling's arctic shores & scored 20/20 lol

but if you're not a gamer you could also practice with some online iq games right before jumping in the assessment already fired up 🔥

ooh omg that sounds fun but intimidating haha - congrats on getting 20/20 on Gowling's test! that's insane.
I used to be a gamer, but on my iPad hahaha, the keyboard is my absolute enemy, would love touchscreen reaction games ngl.

would you say we would need to know the layout of the keyboard well as well if it's all about reacting fast with the keys?

 

[elle woods]

If it helps, i received personal responsibility as an area for development and I passed it so I wouldn't worry too much

Ooh ok that's reassuring to know, thank you so much for sharing!! If it's okay with you, would you mind indicating what the strengths were also? Also congrats on getting to the next stage!!

 

[manifestingthetc]

Ooh ok that's reassuring to know, thank you so much for sharing!! If it's okay with you, would you mind indicating what the strengths were also? Also congrats on getting to the next stage!!

No worries - it was judgement and effective communication! what did you get?

 

[elle woods]

No worries - it was judgement and effective communication! what did you get?

!!! I got the same omg

aaa fingers crossed thennn

 

[elle woods]

No worries - it was judgement and effective communication! what did you get?

I also love your username and your pfp (so chic) btw 🤞 🤞 🤞