TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

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Hey!

They are very similar questions, but not quite identical!

"Why our firm?" is broader, and focuses on what attracts you to the firm as an organisation - for example, its practices areas, clients, strategy, culture, recent deals, etc. You are essentially showing that you have researched the firm and understand what makes it distinctive, and can then show why you are a good fit for the firm based on your motivations and skills.

"Why do you want to train at our firm" is more personal, and focused on fit - for example, why that specific training contract structure, seat system, support available, and environment suit you and your development. They will want to see how the firm aligns with your goals and how you see yourself there as a trainee.

In practice, there is a lot of overlap and many candidates will use similar core points for both (e.g. you might want to join a firm due to its training structure). However, I would slightly tweak the emphasis for each answer.

As for whether both would be asked, I imagine it is possible, but likely uncommon. More often, interviewers will ask one and then probe deeper with follow-up questions (e.g. "why is that important to you?") :)
That's super helpful! Thank you so much, Abbie!
 
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Hey! Sorry to ask but I was wondering what your amberjack pillars were? I want to know if I get rejected if it was my score or VI to know how to improve!
Hi! No worries - It was high verbal mid numerical then 6, 4, 4, 7 - so not great. However, I do think a lot of the time these SJTs are just tick boxes and what really matters is the VI. They mentioned on the call enjoying the VI and didn't mention about the SJT :)
 
Hi! No worries - It was high verbal mid numerical then 6, 4, 4, 7 - so not great. However, I do think a lot of the time these SJTs are just tick boxes and what really matters is the VI. They mentioned on the call enjoying the VI and didn't mention about the SJT :)
Oh wow that’s brilliant!! To hear that they Enjoyed your VI is such an accomplishment!
 
Has anybody reneged on a TC offer?

Really fortunate to have just received a TC offer!!!!! Happy with the firm, but I have an upcoming scheme with an absolute dream law firm for me. The scheme is in April, so I would probably hear back in late April/early May. The TC firm wants an answer from me just before the scheme starts.

I could accept, then renege if I receive the other offer, but I'm wary of doing this. Or I could ask the TC firm for more time, but if they say no, that's kind of showing my hand. Unsure of what to do exactly, and any advice would be really appreciated!
 
Has anybody reneged on a TC offer?

Really fortunate to have just received a TC offer!!!!! Happy with the firm, but I have an upcoming scheme with an absolute dream law firm for me. The scheme is mid-late April, so I would probably hear back in early May. The TC firm wants an answer from me just before the scheme starts.

I could accept, then renege if I receive the other offer, but I'm wary of doing this. Or I could ask the TC firm for more time, but if they say no, that's kind of showing my hand. Unsure of what to do exactly, and any advice would be really appreciated!
Would depend on the terms of the contract regarding acceptance before the scheme from what I've read here previously, some firms don't allow for joining any other form of work after acceptance so it would be better to have a look before making the decision to accept
 
Has anybody reneged on a TC offer?

Really fortunate to have just received a TC offer!!!!! Happy with the firm, but I have an upcoming scheme with an absolute dream law firm for me. The scheme is in April, so I would probably hear back in late April/early May. The TC firm wants an answer from me just before the scheme starts.

I could accept, then renege if I receive the other offer, but I'm wary of doing this. Or I could ask the TC firm for more time, but if they say no, that's kind of showing my hand. Unsure of what to do exactly, and any advice would be really appreciated!
If you are still at university and the firm follows the voluntary guidance from the Law Society, when you are offered a training contract they should give you time until September. Firms like magic circle do follow this code https://www.lawsociety.org.uk/topic...ry-code-of-recruitment-for-trainee-solicitors
 
Hi! No worries - It was high verbal mid numerical then 6, 4, 4, 7 - so not great. However, I do think a lot of the time these SJTs are just tick boxes and what really matters is the VI. They mentioned on the call enjoying the VI and didn't mention about the SJT :)
Hi! Huge congratulations on the VS!! Just wanted to check if this was for their london or dubai office? :)
 
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