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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Are Freshfields yet to send out VS AC’s? As I’ve only seen DTC AC invites on here. Getting a bit nervous as I’m yet to hear…
I doubt it. From what I know most ACs for VS were before Christmas and offers were given out, then additional AC’s were held in Jan for vs. Since they have started giving dtc invites recently I’m assuming they might be done w vs interviews? all assumptions anyways based on the timeline
 
hi guys! just a question to anyone who has experienced the same emotional issue. I have a clear list of firms that have excited me to bits and I have tried to put so much effort in the applications but haven’t had any success with them.

I have been applying more of course, and I have finally secured my first AC (it’s my 2nd application cycle). However, I am honest with myself that I am not really excited about this firm. Like, I am and I do have a strong interest in some of their practice areas. Plus, I know that it is a great learning opportunity and I might really enjoy it there, but something still makes me not so fascinated about preparing for AC.

How to make yourself super energised about the process? Has anyone had the same feeling?
 
I'm just wondering, since I'm in 2nd year, if I can't secure a TC this cycle and end up applying again in my final year, won't that significantly reduce the pool of firms I can apply to? from what I've seen loads require that you're in you're 2nd year of a law degree? does that mean I'll have to wait until after I graduate to apply again?
 
I'm just wondering, since I'm in 2nd year, if I can't secure a TC this cycle and end up applying again in my final year, won't that significantly reduce the pool of firms I can apply to? from what I've seen loads require that you're in you're 2nd year of a law degree? does that mean I'll have to wait until after I graduate to apply again?
The requirement is at least in your second year of a law degree or final year of a non-law degree. I don't know of any firm that doesn't allow final year law students to apply...
 
I'm just wondering, since I'm in 2nd year, if I can't secure a TC this cycle and end up applying again in my final year, won't that significantly reduce the pool of firms I can apply to? from what I've seen loads require that you're in you're 2nd year of a law degree? does that mean I'll have to wait until after I graduate to apply again?
I am now applying in my final year and I must say I almost never have any issues! I think the majority of firms are absolutely okay with it.
 
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I'd just like to quickly chime in about the WG/SJT discussion.
Standardised testing is fine and objective all you want. However, the WG and SJT are not exactly standardised.

Wiki defines ST as: a test that is administered and scored in a consistent or standard manner. It follows that these tests should be easy to practice, consistent to one another, and (most importantly) have correct answers.

WG: is administered by loads of different providers with different standards as to what is "correct." This makes it almost impossible to practice and do consistently well in, because correct answers fluctuate massively depending on the test provider. In addition, certain sections are weighted differently depending on the administrator or the firm.

SJT: do not even get me started. These -- cappfinity in particular -- have absolutely no correct answer. The options each measure a different trait, and lord knows how the slider ones are scored. People routinely get the same quality as their best and worst after taking the same test, which is a clear indication that these tests are bullsh*t. Absolute laziness from firms tbh.

And that is before taking into account how these are used in recruitment. If these were being used consistently and in a standard manner, candidates who score highest would automatically progress, right? But that is not the case. In addition, I really dislike how these are used to "predict behaviour" that is seemingly inconsistent with reality.

TLDR: i am frustrated at the opaque and frankly somewhat lazy recruitment process.
 
I'd just like to quickly chime in about the WG/SJT discussion.
Standardised testing is fine and objective all you want. However, the WG and SJT are not exactly standardised.

Wiki defines ST as: a test that is administered and scored in a consistent or standard manner. It follows that these tests should be easy to practice, consistent to one another, and (most importantly) have correct answers.

WG: is administered by loads of different providers with different standards as to what is "correct." This makes it almost impossible to practice and do consistently well in, because correct answers fluctuate massively depending on the test provider. In addition, certain sections are weighted differently depending on the administrator or the firm.

SJT: do not even get me started. These -- cappfinity in particular -- have absolutely no correct answer. The options each measure a different trait, and lord knows how the slider ones are scored. People routinely get the same quality as their best and worst after taking the same test, which is a clear indication that these tests are bullsh*t. Absolute laziness from firms tbh.

And that is before taking into account how these are used in recruitment. If these were being used consistently and in a standard manner, candidates who score highest would automatically progress, right? But that is not the case. In addition, I really dislike how these are used to "predict behaviour" that is seemingly inconsistent with reality.

TLDR: i am frustrated at the opaque and frankly somewhat lazy recruitment process.
Agree completely with this .
 
I just completed the WBD Neurosight test. My first test of this type.

That's an interesting one. You place your mouse in a set position, a question appears, then after 5 seconds a few possible choices appear on screen and you move the mouse to the one that reflects your immediate thoughts. I heard that they track mouse movements to gauge authentic responses.

Makes a nice change from WG, of course!
 
Does anyone have any advice on maintaining momentum? This hasn’t been a great cycle for me and honestly this whole process makes me feel stupid lol I don’t know if it’s worth it to continue to pursue this career anymore
everyone whos made it has felt exactly like you do. no one goes through this without thinking of giving up or switching to something different. thinking abt that keeps me going too. momentum can peak and trough so dont worry, just keep believing in your head and if you want it bad enough, no reason to say you cant do it :)
 
Firm A - international Firm in London who have offered me a TC

Firm B - Freshfields

I have my Freshfields AC in 3 weeks time which massively clashes with the 7 day deadline given to me by Firm A, even if I were hear back from Freshfields immediately. Any thoughts would be massively appreciated!
First off, congrats!!💃💃 I can definitely see why this is a hard choice.
If I were you, I would take the tc… acs especially at MCs are ridiculously competitive but this is my risk appetite given that job market is trenches rn, but it is ultimately your choice and your preferences.
 
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