TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[emily12]

BB DTC PFO and Ashfords SVS PFO within 30 minutes of each other I only did the BB VI on Tuesday and hadn't even seen any PFOs yet for the vac scheme, who did VIs weeks ago, so I was really taken aback Starting to lose all hope to do law icl

 

[siilvert0ngue]

Ashurst DTC anyone?

I haven't heard anything yet but someone on Reddit received an invite to the Written Exercise two days ago:

https://www.reddit.com/r/uklaw/comments/1sz41o0/ashurst_direct_tc_written_exercise_virtual

 

[TCLAuser2002]

What does Reed smith test include anyone know? is there a VI?

 

[DaemonBlackFyre]

To be “eligible” i’m assuming Reed Smith surely screens all candidates grades and work experiences before progressing them to the next stage?

 

[give.me.a.tc]

Anyone yet to hear from HL?

??

 

[InterestInPublicLaw]

Has anyone heard from Bates Wells, Foot Anstey, or Howard Kennedy for DTC (post-initial application)?

 

[Meg_Thee_Applicant]

Those that got Reed Smith test invite - could someone pls tell me how long they give you to complete it since getting the email? Thank uuuuuu

 

[summersun]

Those that got Reed Smith test invite - could someone pls tell me how long they give you to complete it since getting the email? Thank uuuuuu

We have until the 8th at 5 pm

 

[Meg_Thee_Applicant]

We have until the 8th at 5 pm

Thank you!!!

 

[spamelinazoid]

Radio silence from Ashurst, Stephenson Harwood and Baker McKenzie.

 

[nicoledm]

Harbottle and Lewis final stage interview!

 

[MZJxLadha]

Harbottle and Lewis final stage interview!

Amazing!! Good luck

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

Radio silence from Ashurst, Stephenson Harwood and Baker McKenzie.

Me rn cos we have to wait until Tuesday before we can expect any news of updates smh:​

 

[SueD]

We have until the 8th at 5 pm

Well done on getting through to the next stage! Would you mind telling me how long it took to receive the invitation after submitting your application?

 

[asplawyer100]

If anyone has done / has an upcoming Insight Day with Irwin Mitchell, please could you offer some insights or reach out for a quick chat? Even if you haven’t done it yet but have one coming up like myself, I would love to see what others are expecting from the day as it all seems so ambiguous.

 

[johjo199]

Harbottle and Lewis final stage interview!

Nice! Which AC did you attend?

 

[Legaluser_332]

Hey everyone, I’m relatively new to the application world and had my BB VS application converted to the Direct TC by the firm. I have no idea on what the AC is going to be like. It was just over a call so I have not yet received the confirmation email.

Any guidance on how best to prep for the AC would be very appreciated.

 

[Jaysen]

Hey does anyone know of any complete database of application questions for firms from this cycle? For both vac scheme and DTC (but primarily vac schemes)?

I’m thinking of potentially preparing answers now and then sending applications as soon as they open up next cycle (assuming there is little/no change to questions).

We'll have this ready by 1 July!

 

[dieinabush]

hii everyone, does anyone have any insight into the CRS ac? any advice would be much appreciated

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hey guys, is there anyone who got a TC during their first cycle? Wondering if is it really possible if you are not an oxbridge, head of law society etc type of candidate