TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[e.jy336]

Hi!

I'm not sure about whether we have a definitive list, but there is this thread where individuals have shared information on firms with stricter grade requirements!

Thank you!

 

[DaemonBlackFyre]

Hi everyone, I'm fortunate to have been offered a paralegal position at a global law firm (think CMS, Dentons, DLA Piper), my concern is whether I would be able to attend vacation schemes should I be lucky to get one or more.

If i was to take annual leave, am I limited to just one vacation scheme?

Is a direct TC the better option? I fear there are less spaces for direct TC's so this will be a more disadvantageous route to take.

Would appreciate any advice, thanks!

 

[AS24]

Hi!

I don't think you necessarily need to connect your extracurricular activities directly to Simpson Thacher's expertise, strategy or culture. I would focus primarily on what skills the activity helped you develop and why those skills are relevant to a career in corporate law.

For example, if you played football, you could discuss how this developed your teamwork, communication, and ability to perform under pressure, and then explain how those skills would be useful when working collaboratively with colleagues and other parties on a transaction.

I would be slightly cautious about forcing a link to a specific type of Simpson deal (e.g. "this skill will allow me to work on X deal") unless there is a really natural connection. The key thing is to show that you understand why the skill matters in corporate law, rather than trying to make every extracurricular activity demonstrate why you want to work at Simpson specifically.

You could implicitly relate your answer to Simpson Thacher by finding the skills and traits they highlight on their website, and using examples that show those traits. However, I would keep this question focused on the development of relevant skills, rather than trying to force it to be a motivational answer

Thank you @Abbie Whitlock, you are a gem!

 

[Enyonam]

Hi everyone, I'm fortunate to have been offered a paralegal position at a global law firm (think CMS, Dentons, DLA Piper), my concern is whether I would be able to attend vacation schemes should I be lucky to get one or more.

If i was to take annual leave, am I limited to just one vacation scheme?

Is a direct TC the better option? I fear there are less spaces for direct TC's so this will be a more disadvantageous route to take.

Would appreciate any advice, thanks!

I am also a paralegal but in house, I’ve taken holiday to do vac schemes… it’s not convenient and it’s definitely a big sacrifice, but you gotta do what you gotta do!

My workplace has also allowed me to take unpaid leave to attend one. I also think let your manager know your plans, they may be more flexible than you think

 

[DaemonBlackFyre]

I am also a paralegal but in house, I’ve taken holiday to do vac schemes… it’s not convenient and it’s definitely a big sacrifice, but you gotta do what you gotta do!

My workplace has also allowed me to take unpaid leave to attend one. I also think let your manager know your plans, they may be more flexible than you think

Hi,

Thanks for responding, that's really encouraging to hear!

Can I also ask, how many applications did you make and how did you make time for prep in terms of writing and also video interviews?