Hi!
I had a good weekend, thank you - hope you did too!!
That's a great question, and I think it depends between firms. I actually only submitted one DTC application last cycle, so it could differ at other firms, but I found that the extra time needed was simply due to the fact that there are often more application questions for DTC applications. I think the level of research needed is relatively similar, as the first few stages don't differ too much between DTC and VS. However, I found that I needed to spend more time preparing for the later stages (e.g. AC and VI) rather than the application stage
If anything, I probably spent less time on my DTC application than the earlier VS ones - mainly because I had become more confident in the research and writing element (as I'd written quite a few applications by that point!). I wouldn't worry if you aren't spending ages on a DTC application, as they are ultimately looking for the same things as a VS application - that is, your motivation, the skills you have gained, and how these make you a good fit for the firm. Best of luck!
