TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[CharlesT47]

In the fund formation space, how do firms typically differentiate themselves? Why would you approach Kirkland vs Debevoise vs Akin? is it sector-specific expertise? Does anyone know why Debevoise's fund team is so renowned?

 

[Bree]

If that's the case, then I wouldn't think strengths are what they're assessing at this stage. They'll typically assess that at a later stage of the application process, and I wouldn't suggest jeopardising the quality of you answer for a question that usually looks for those who are genuinely interested in this career choice. To err on the side of caution here, I would touch upon some skills, but again, only where they have pushed me to this career choice above others.

That makes a lot of sense, thank you!

 

[Lawlawland]

People who have applied on the last 3 days of the deadline for the Slaughter and May DTC, did you guys receive any update from the team?

They're radio silent and IDK what to make out of it.

 

[FutureTrainee213]

In the fund formation space, how do firms typically differentiate themselves? Why would you approach Kirkland vs Debevoise vs Akin? is it sector-specific expertise? Does anyone know why Debevoise's fund team is so renowned?

This is a really good question. It's tricky to try and differentiate every little thing about a firm, when in reality, sometimes they just are pretty similar and the only way you can tell their specifics is by having already worked there. However, typically with firms that are "renowned" per say, they usually have a USP. Something that speaks to clients so they keep coming back. For example, with Kirkland & Ellis they seem to have a really good understanding of the secondaries market (thanks to Theodore Cardos) so I would hone in on the work they typically do and see if there is a pattern. Are they assisting more with a specific type of client or asset deal - is that whats setting them apart? My suggestion would be to first look at their annual report/briefing to see if they themselves have identified whats worked for them this year and what they're hoping to focus on. Following which, have a look at their clients and most recent deals to see if a pattern is forming. Hope this helps

 

[M_m]

How soon after the TW online assessment do you know if you’ve passed the benchmark?

 

[ttyl]

Are Latham and Freshfields stage 2 online assessment automatic or you have to have passed stage 1? Has anyone experienced a pfo email after their stage one? Cause idk if you're meant to wait for stage 2 or if you're told it's a pfo

 

[Bree]

Are Latham and Freshfields stage 2 online assessment automatic or you have to have passed stage 1? Has anyone experienced a pfo email after their stage one? Cause idk if you're meant to wait for stage 2 or if you're told it's a pfo

It is not automatic, you can get PFO after stage 1

 

[James Wakefield]

Are Latham and Freshfields stage 2 online assessment automatic or you have to have passed stage 1? Has anyone experienced a pfo email after their stage one? Cause idk if you're meant to wait for stage 2 or if you're told it's a pfo

Latham seems to be very quick or even automatic So if you’ve waited for more than a few days after completing stage 1 it’s very likely to be a PFO I am afraid.

Freshfields do seem to take a bit longer- people have waited weeks for stage 2.

 

[FutureTrainee213]

hey everyone, I wanted to just get some life advice regarding next steps of my life. it's a bit of a weird space to do it but I think it will definitely relate to a lot of people here. I'm a non-law finalist and right now it feels like its go time for applications whether that's law or masters. in my heart of hearts I want to do a masters, but there's always been a piece of me that loves law and wants to try it out but law is not only competitive and time-consuming but also not something you can dip your toes in since its often times vac scheme- tc offer-law school which is like a 3 year process.

I know I don't have enough time to balance masters and law but I also do not want to risk potentially having regrets in the future. I've thought about doing just masters applications but again it's so hard because it just so happens that my potential course is only offered at the best unis in the uk/u.s. I also really like law but sometimes I find myself questioning if the applications, pfo's and 10 stages is even worth it. In an ideal world, I would get my dream masters but also have a tc offer which I would defer for post masters but we unfortunately do not live in such paradise. It's been scarier knowing in this one holiday I have 5 masters apps, diss work, coursework and potentially more law apps too.

I feel like I'm getting nowhere asking myself what it is that I want so I wanted to ask here to see if others have been through this, if anyone has any guidance and advice?

What you’re feeling is entirely normal. I remember being torn between wanting to continue my postgraduate research in AI regulation or proceed with pursuing a legal career. Ultimately, I decided the latter. The reason being, I knew what my future after the research was going to look like because I was already there. However, you’re not, and I think that’s something you need to give yourself so you can make an informed decision in regards to your future.

In my opinion, I would advise that you focus on your masters first. It seems to be the thing you’re most interested in (at this current moment in time) and unlike a legal career as a Trainee Solicitor, it’s the only one of the two that you can obtain without feeling like you’re making a lifelong commitment, thus enabling you to have all the information you need to make a real decision as to where you want to go next. Of course, you can juggle both applications now, but what if that compromises the quality and results in a failure to secure your top choice firms/universities, or what if it results in a mental burnout? I feel like they’re risks that you don’t really need to take at this stage. Equally, what if you get both, and during the course of your masters you decide that you want to remain in the academic field, or pursue a career that best aligns with what you’re studying, so you decide to rescind the TC anyway.

I appreciate it feels like the pressure is on for the TC route as you’re in your final year, likely surrounded with people who are heads down applying for VS/TC’s and you think the time is now. But the truth is, there is no set timescale for either option really. And, if you want to avoid having regrets in the future, I would not rush anything right now. Regret does not come from waiting, it comes from making the wrong decision, and wrong decisions are typically made when they are not fully informed.

Hopefully this helps with your decision.

Good luck!

 

[badmintonflyinginsect]

What you’re feeling is entirely normal. I remember being torn between wanting to continue my postgraduate research in AI regulation or proceed with pursuing a legal career. Ultimately, I decided the latter. The reason being, I knew what my future after the research was going to look like because I was already there. However, you’re not, and I think that’s something you need to give yourself so you can make an informed decision in regards to your future.

In my opinion, I would advise that you focus on your masters first. It seems to be the thing you’re most interested in (at this current moment in time) and unlike a legal career as a Trainee Solicitor, it’s the only one of the two that you can obtain without feeling like you’re making a lifelong commitment, thus enabling you to have all the information you need to make a real decision as to where you want to go next. Of course, you can juggle both applications now, but what if that compromises the quality and results in a failure to secure your top choice firms/universities, or what if it results in a mental burnout? I feel like they’re risks that you don’t really need to take at this stage. Equally, what if you get both, and during the course of your masters you decide that you want to remain in the academic field, or pursue a career that best aligns with what you’re studying, so you decide to rescind the TC anyway.

I appreciate it feels like the pressure is on for the TC route as you’re in your final year, likely surrounded with people who are heads down applying for VS/TC’s and you think the time is now. But the truth is, there is no set timescale for either option really. And, if you want to avoid having regrets in the future, I would not rush anything right now. Regret does not come from waiting, it comes from making the wrong decision, and wrong decisions are typically made when they are not fully informed.

Hopefully this helps with your decision.

Good luck!

im sorry if this is rude but who are u u joined an hour ago ??

edit: rlly not trying to be mean or hinder forum activity. it's just the repetitive ai-like responses from new accounts

edit 2: oops missed jaysen's post about new trainees, my apologies - pls ignore this!! <3

 

[tball]

For HL i did the online assessment on the 23rd of November and got the Job Sim on the 8th December. Hope this helps some people

Hey I can't PM you but do you have any advice for the Job Sim?

 

[Novaa]

im sorry if this is rude but who are u u joined an hour ago ??

edit: rlly not trying to be mean or hinder forum activity. it's just the repetitive ai-like responses from new accounts

I think Jaysen made a post saying that there are future trainees who are trialing for a new position

So that’s why responses might seem more detailed, as these are people who may be supporting on the forum in the future.

 

[badmintonflyinginsect]

I think Jaysen made a post saying that there are future trainees who are trialing out for a new position

So that’s why responses might seem more detailed, as these are people who may be supporting on the forum in the future.

oh that makes so much sense - i must've missed it. thanks so much )

 

[FutureTrainee213]

im sorry if this is rude but who are u u joined an hour ago ??

Loool, why is this giving "who are you" by the Kazoo kid? Not rude at all, we love a concerned citizen. I'm a future trainee at Travers Smith just hopping back on here for a while to see if I can help anyone out.

 

[Madison Pinewall]

Hey I can't PM you but do you have any advice for the Job Sim?

I'm lowk not sure how much you can say about these things without undermining the candidate integrity promise

 

[Madison Pinewall]

Loool, why is this giving "who are you" by the Kazoo kid? Not rude at all, we love a concerned citizen. I'm a future trainee at Travers Smith just hopping back on here for a while to see if I can help anyone out.

TS is essentially my dream firm (tied with HSF) any particular tips? I have my cover letter written and I think it's quite good but since its non-rolling I'm holding off as I'm scared haha!

 

[tball]

I'm lowk not sure how much you can say about these things without undermining the candidate integrity promise

yeah ofc sorry, just meant like how long did it take etc?

 

[Madison Pinewall]

yeah ofc sorry, just meant like how long did it take etc?

no more than 40 mins, the prep time is 1.5 mins I believe and the VI questions aren't there to trick you just your standard ones!

 

[iklawapps]

sorry if people have already asked this, but does anyone know what time Mishcon's application is due? like would it be safe to submit it any time before 23:59 tomorrow night? thank you so much, and sorry to ask!!

 

[FutureTrainee213]

TS is essentially my dream firm (tied with HSF) any particular tips? I have my cover letter written and I think it's quite good but since its non-rolling I'm holding off as I'm scared haha!

Ooh good choice, if I'm allowed to say that. I would say my biggest tip for the TS application is to let your personality shine through. One of the greatest things about this firm is their genuine desire to know you as a person (I remember laughing my way through my first interview with the partner). They really value a personality, as their culture is one of their top strengths. Of course, you will still need to focus on that firm in particular and your strengths, but try to think outside the box - maybe your strengths came from a pretty unique/non legal job such as flipping pancakes - essentially, make yourself a little unique. Everybody has different experiences/skills/interests but we try to fit a mould of what we think looks good, whilst throwing away what makes us a memorable candidate. Good luck!