TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[SueD]

Hey!

Of course! I would say that there are a couple of main reasons why preparation for a DTC AC can take longer than for a vac scheme AC.

The first is that DTC ACs often include a wider range of assessed tasks, as others have mentioned. This will vary between firms, but it is quite common to see additional written exercises, case studies, or multiple interviews. As the firm only has a few hours to assess candidates (as opposed to a week or two on a vacation scheme), they tend to test more competencies within that shorter timeframe. As a result, you often need to prepare for a broader range of assessments, which naturally takes more time.

The second reason is that the AC is usually your only opportunity to demonstrate your motivation for the firm. On a vacation scheme, the firm can observe how you work over several days, see how you interact with others, and hear your thoughts in more informal settings. For a DTC AC, they do not have that extended exposure to you, so it is particularly important to be able to articulate clearly why you want to train at that specific firm and what draws you to their work. I found that this required doing more in-depth research beforehand so that I could communicate my interest convincingly in interviews.

A related point is that, on a vacation scheme, you are often learning about the firm as you go and can tailor your understanding throughout the week (before the final TC interview). With a DTC AC, you generally need to have that level of understanding before you arrive, which can mean spending more time preparing in advance.

I hope that makes sense!

Thank you so much for this Abbie!

 

[alphabravocharlie]

When firms use FT articles, do they stay away from any politically loaded articles?

 

[helenaskelton]

What are the chances of a waitlist for vacation schemes? How does this work?

 

[marisachr]

Anyone heard back from Kennedys post AC for direct TC London office?

 

[CharlieandLola]

Anyone heard back from Kennedys post AC for direct TC London office?

I think someone said we should hear back this week? But looking at past years people have found out way later

 

[Steakbake]

Simmons Bristol PFO, took their time…

 

[avocadob]

Has anyone heard from PMC post AC?

 

[Ashley06]

MIshconnnn wyaaa

 

[Kenomy]

Anyone heard from Teacher Stern?

 

[thepfocollector]

Good luck to anyone receiving their SQE1 results

 

[pleasepleaseplease]

Anyone heard back from Kennedys post AC for direct TC London office?

what’s taking them so long 😭

 

[brtz]

Hi everyone, does anyone know roughly how long CMS takes to respond to WG?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Any advice on how to ask a firm about transportation subsidies for a VS? I have found family to stay with in the South East so I do not need to pay for a hotel, but just help with the train ticket would be nice. I would understand if they do not offer this/reject my request since they are paying me for the VS, but I would still like to ask in a way which does not seem disrespectful or taking advantage. Advice? Should I just not ask?

Hey!

It is definitely completely reasonable to ask - firms are usually quite used to questions about travel / accommodation for vacation schemes, and it won't come across as disrespectful if you phrase it politely.

You could frame it along the lines of acknowledging that they are already paying for the scheme and that you have arranged your own accommodation, but asking whether there is any support available for travel. This could look like something along the lines of:

"I am really looking forward to attending the vacation scheme! I have arranged accommodation with family in the South East, so I won't require a hotel, but I just wanted to check whether the firm offers any support with travel expenses (e.g. the train) for the scheme. I completely understand if this isn't something that is offered, I just wanted to enquire. Many thanks, and I look forward to the scheme"

That way, you are being transparent and appreciative, whilst also making it clear that you understand the answer could be no. Most firms will either have a standard policy that they can tell you about, or will simply say that they're unable to reimburse travel. It won't reflect badly on you as long as you ask politely!

 

[Joey green]

Anyone heard back from bakers post ac for summer?

 

[Madison Pinewall]

anybody heard from slaughters this week?

 

[YW113380]

Does anyone know of any good resources for converting a VS?

 

[yasmars]

Does anyone know of any good resources for converting a VS?

I honestly would speak to anyone you may know in the industry who has recently undergone vac schemes and ask for any advice. I’ve found their insights to be very useful, even if they were not successful in getting a TC.

 

[Novaa]

Sometimes you just need to join a webinar on Energy and Project Finance to remember why you’re doing this! 🥹

FEELING: MOTIVATED

 

[Novaa]

Sometimes you just need to join a webinar on Energy and Project Finance to remember why you’re doing this! 🥹

FEELING: MOTIVATED

On the back of this, Grads + Career Changers, how are you making time for engaging with Law outside of applications?

@Jaysen @Abbie Whitlock - I wasn’t sure if you either had any suggestions or things you’ve heard?

 

[jagath]

anybody heard from slaughters this week?

saw one more offer non law yesterday