TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[BealMcAlly]

This is grad rec after watching live recordings of us taking the tests and seeing our reactions to some of the ridiculous questions they set:​

Right? I honestly cannot imagine them sitting through hours of recordings when they have such a high volume of applications to sift through. surely it's just automated to flag weird behaviour like eyes darting away from the screen, flicking through tabs and windows or people taking photos, etc.

 

[johnafleck6]

It doesn't lead to an interview - you still have to apply for the TC separately. It's essentially just a 1 week WEX placement

Hi I’m a future trainee at Paul Hastings. While you do still need to submit a separate written TC application, by completing the PHirst Steps Scheme last year I bypassed the initial stage of their recruitment process (first interview)

After the scheme, I was invited straight to a final assessment centre (written exercise and partner interview). So it’s more than just a one week work experience and can materially accelerate the TC process. Hope this helps anyone wishing to apply.

 

[LehmanBrothersRiskManagementIntern]

Debevoise & Plimpton's application for the open day has 7 questions

 

[Harvey Specter]

Debevoise & Plimpton's application for the open day has 7 questions

Technically it’s for the vac scheme but they only recruit vac schemers from their open day which I think has an interview as part of it, so it doubles as an AC too? Idek it’s very weird lmao.​

 

[solicitor_2028]

Is it too late to apply for Dechert considering the deadline is in 2 days AND rolling?

 

[applicant3000]

You mean to say grad rec actually watch the prep time? Many a time I've reacted very loudly to a number of questions, also some unlimited prep VIs I've taken a very long time to prep my answers.

Am I cooked? Lmao

Almost never! Only if they have strong evidence to believe you cheated (i.e. someone else did the VI for you). It woukd be far too much bother for them to watch the prep time.

 

[legal18]

How do I use the 50% off my first application review as a premium member?

 

[tcappps123]

Is it too late to apply to Milbank spring as they seem to be rolling this year ?

Hope not! I applied yesterday

 

[floral.tcla]

Night watchers, any leads on applications that skip the long‑form essay interrogation? I’m on the lookout for some low‑hanging fruit to pick off before I lose steam.

ur asking the real questions, love that for you

 

[cookedlawstudent]

Millbank if you haven’t done it!

Also Addleshaw Goddard has just one short question.

I am considering doing Milbank but then again I'm also thinking of applying next cycle with stronger grades and more experience. I also wanted to ask if you have any idea of whether they recruit NQ associates or not?

 

[M85672]

Hi, would anybody be willing to read over my cover letter for Perkins Coie's LBA programme? Stumped on how to write a high quality app for it given how new the programme is and lack of exemplar answers to look to for guidance.

 

[TCLAuser2002]

Hey guys, did anyone do the Akin telephone interview today?

 

[applicant3000]

If anyone had imsights on the milbank test, I can share advice for HL (both tests and vi), weil VI, Mayer Brown, Simmons VI + AC, Bird & Bird VI, Akin Telephone Interview, Macfarlanes test + VI!

 

[legallybrunnette]

Hi everyone!

I was wondering if any of you have advice on how to prepare for the Amberjack Reed Smith test. I have heard there is a numerical component and I was wondering what kind of knowledge I should brush up e.g. statistics. Also, if anyone is familiar with any accurate practice available online or any resources, that would also help.

Thank you!

 

[EfficientBag123]

If anyone had imsights on the milbank test, I can share advice for HL (both tests and vi), weil VI, Mayer Brown, Simmons VI + AC, Bird & Bird VI, Akin Telephone Interview, Macfarlanes test + VI!

Which Simmons office did u do the AC at?

 

[lolololol]

What test is the first stage for milbank?

 

[applicant3000]

Which Simmons office did u do the AC at?

London x

 

[spongebob]

Is it normal that I can’t login to my Milbank allhires application again? I wanted to check if i applied spring or summer but it’s not recognising my email even when i try to reset password

 

[iwatchsuits]

Milbank test link woohoo

What is it ❤️

 

[BealMcAlly]

Milbank OA just came through. Is it an SJT?

I seem to remember a post saying something along those lines?