TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[DavidJC]

bit demoralised after skadden pfo and now doubting my app writing skills generally :/

Feeling the same, so I'm getting some comfort food and hopefully bouncing back in the next few hours cos these other apps aren't gonna write themselves

 

[TCseeker17]

Does anyone know when applicants to A&O Shearman direct TC will hear back after the AC? I am Impatiently waiting haha.

I am waiting too ahaha, the wait is torture!

 

[asdfghjk1997]

Anyone heard from CC post VI?

 

[ashwright]

Does anyone know when applicants to A&O Shearman direct TC will hear back after the AC? I am Impatiently waiting haha.

From what I recall, they said this week or next

 

[LegallyStressedOut]

@emmasilvestri did you hear back from cc today?

 

[Freshcutgrass]

I am waiting too ahaha, the wait is torture!

Aw if only they’d put us out of our misery haha. Good luck <3

 

[nicoledm]

Does anyone have any insight into Fieldfisher first stage interview?

 

[lelezb1]

Hi, congratulations! Also, may I know when have you received the confirmation email that your application and score has been forwarded to the grad rec. thanks!

Does anyone have any insight into Fieldfisher first stage interview?

 

[nicoledm]

Hi, congratulations! Also, may I know when have you received the confirmation email that your application and score has been forwarded to the grad rec. thanks!

I don't think I got that email sorry! I applied on the 8th of November, received test on 26th, and received an interview invite a few days later

 

[nicoledm]

Sorry for the spam, but has anyone heard from CMS Manchester?

 

[lelezb1]

I don't think I got that email sorry! I applied on the 8th of November, received test on 26th, and received an interview invite a few days later

No worries!! Good luck for the interview!!

 

[Winter]

Does anyone have any insight into Fieldfisher first stage interview?

I think ur the first from the forum with an invite! Congrats!

I don't think I got that email sorry! I applied on the 8th of November, received test on 26th, and received an interview invite a few days later

I completed the test on Dec 5th, I wonder if I've been rejected hmmm.

 

[nicoledm]

I think ur the first from the forum with an invite! Congrats!

I completed the test on Dec 5th, I wonder if I've been rejected hmmm.

I don't think so! Applications only closed last Friday so they're probably working through all the applicants and tests. I wouldn't worry too much, I think there'll be interviews in January as well

 

[Willgetatc]

Is it me or does Slaughters have a crazy long wait time for feedback 😭

 

[abc124]

Has anyone heard back from Freshfields? Have they started sending out ACs?

 

[TDayne]

bit demoralised after skadden pfo and now doubting my app writing skills generally :/

I am so sorry about the unsuccessful application. I know it stings, especially when you have put real thought into the application.

Please do not take this as a negative outlook on your writing ability. Skadden's application process is one of the most competitive out there, and a rejection can often say more about fit, timing, or volume than the quality of your application. Many strong applications get rejected every cycle.

It is completely normal to start doubting yourself, but try not to let one outcome rewrite your whole story. One application does not erase your strengths or the progress you have made!

Take a breather, then come back with fresh eyes. You have got this! 😊

 

[TDayne]

hi how do you prepare for cappfinity tests? any resources, websites etc would be great to know. Also i dont understand how you're really meant to succeed at these tests because each law firm is different and they may place importance on different qualities so there's not really one correct answer - if that makes sense?

That makes total sense, and you are not missing something obvious. A lot of people, including me when I was applying, feel confused by the Cappfinity assessments for exactly that reason.

In terms of prep, you should try the practice tests that Cappfinity provides, as they are the most accurate. I would also suggest reading the firm’s values and competency framework carefully. Look for patterns in the traits that they emphasise.

You are right in that there is no single “correct” answer. Cappfinity is not testing perfection; it looks for consistency and alignment. The key is to answer honestly, but through the perspective of how you would act in a professional, team-based environment.

If it helps, most candidates fail these tests at least once, so make sure to be kind to yourself, and keep persevering! 🌟

 

[TDayne]

Are they rolling ?

Yes, Dentons recruits on a rolling basis 😊

 

[TDayne]

CMS London VI invite

Huge congrats!! 🏆

 

[Aimee :)]

Feeling the same, so I'm getting some comfort food and hopefully bouncing back in the next few hours cos these other apps aren't gonna write themselves

bit demoralised after skadden pfo and now doubting my app writing skills generally :/

Hey guys, sorry about the bad news I completely understand how disappointing it is to spend ages on application after application and not get the outcome you were hoping for.

I think it can be helpful to take a bit of time to relax and reflect. Maybe read back over your applications and see if there’s anything you could improve. That said, sometimes there genuinely isn’t anything to improve. Remember there are hundreds of people applying for a small number of places, so try not to put the entire burden on yourself.

Law firms are incredibly picky, and each one has its own personality in a way, but the right firm will say yes eventually.

Please don’t doubt yourself, but if you are unsure about your writing, I’d really recommend having someone look over your answers or checking out resources on structuring responses (e.g. the STAR method).

Best of luck to you!