TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[tedkiss]

Is there a VI for the HL first test?

Last year’s first stage assessment didn’t have any VIs as far as I remember

 

[mintgecko]

I'm mostly wanting to apply to firms along the lines of Bird & Bird, Mishcon etc this cycle, however, there's one or two US firms, such as Cooley and White & Case, that I'd love to apply to. The problem is that I'm not sure if I'd be wasting my time given my academics.

I'm going into my final year as a non-law at a Bristol/Durham/etc. and I'm currently at a 64%, give or take, with some 2:2s from first and second year. I've got some good work experience, including a vac scheme at a regional office of an Eversheds/CMS/etc. and a year abroad spent as an in-house paralegal, as well as internships at some offshore firms.

I really like those US firms, but I'd like to hear if people think it's even worth applying given my uni grades?

 

[cutiewiththecontracts]

Has everyone received an HL first-stage? I'm worried because I haven't received it yet

 

[tedkiss]

Has everyone received an HL first-stage? I'm worried because I haven't received it yet

I’m still waiting to hear back as well

 

[anon78365222111]

Has everyone received an HL first-stage? I'm worried because I haven't received it yet

When did you apply ?

 

[e.jy336]

I just emailed HLC grad rec and they said there's no VI in the first stage

 

[cutiewiththecontracts]

When did you apply ?

I applied to HL 2 days ago

 

[tedkiss]

Guys, is it just me or Skadden’s online assessment they introduced this year was rather hard don’t really know how to feel

 

[anon78365222111]

I applied to HL 2 days ago

I applied first day so maybe it’s that

 

[PrayingforaTC2026]

Guys, is it just me or Skadden’s online assessment they introduced this year was rather hard don’t really know how to feel

Is it automatic?

 

[florrrrnnn76]

Just done HL first test, it was unnecessarily long

 

[Enyonam]

Is there a VI for the HL first test?

No VI

 

[Enyonam]

Just done HL first test, it was unnecessarily long

I started and had to stop. Thought I could finish it on my lunch break and I was sorely mistaken!

I now have a headache.

 

[florrrrnnn76]

I started and had to stop. Thought I could finish it on my lunch break and I was sorely mistaken!

I now have a headache.

are you gonna retake it?

 

[Enyonam]

are you gonna retake it?

No you don’t have to do it all in one sitting! I did the timed part first so I will just go back and complete the other two parts later