TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[user55998384]

I think I performed horribly on this one. You've got to be fast at spotting discrepancies, finding patterns etc

is the camera on?

 

[stew99]

Hi! I personally never tailored my work experience and honestly wouldn't particularly recommend to. Most firms want similar skills etc., as long as you showcase your ability and what you did, I would say you're fine across the board.

Hi @Antoni Trochimowicz , how would you recommend we structure this section? How many words etc.? I usually use the same paragraphs but having had lots of unsuccessful applications it might need a revamp.

 

[NM23x]

is the camera on?

No

 

[jojo23]

Does anybody get a bad feeling with the vast majority of firms changing their application processes?

Something makes me feel insanely anxious this cycle

 

[ufdj]

Does anybody get a bad feeling with the vast majority of firms changing their application processes?

Something makes me feel insanely anxious this cycle

Agreed the entire thing is so mentally exhausting especially with the stricter grade requirements

 

[anon78365222111]

Does anybody get a bad feeling with the vast majority of firms changing their application processes?

Something makes me feel insanely anxious this cycle

The most tiring thing are constant tests, it is such a drag especially tests before they even review. Like I’m investing an hour or 90 mins in something that won’t be seen if they don’t like my application or grades

 

[ufdj]

Does anyone know why Latham is taking longer to progress applicants to stage 2 this cycle?

 

[Inquisitive]

is the camera on?

Nah, mine wasn't

 

[Inquisitive]

Anyone get the test yet for Reed?

 

[Maria56]

How would you structure the CV for DLA? Also, I feel like they have changed their recruitment process, as we had a telephone interview and 2 motivational answers last year.

 

[Hopeful applicant]

Does anyone know whether Covington runs a winter scheme this year? on their website they start with "our winter and summer vac schemes..." but there is no link to the summer scheme.

 

[Fred_Stuart]

This is 100% my personal theory but I assume they'd be quite strict especially because 1) US Firm 2) No cover letter/questions, just CV, so to stand out at that stage you'd probably need good grades and/or good experience ..... but again just my thought!! Hopefully I'm wrong though haha

I am on the application now, and it says that a Cover Letter is required??

 

[eajones]

do high academic requirements (E.g. above 60 or 65% in each module) typically apply to law conversions too? uncertain where I stand re US firms if i have a 1st at undergrad and lower marks in 50/60s in my pgdl under closed book timed exam scenario (merit overall tho)

 

[Hannah_Willkie]

Applications are now open for Willkie Farr & Gallagher's Spring and Summer Vacation Schemes 2027!

Over the two-week scheme, participants work alongside Willkie lawyers, gain exposure to a broad range of legal work, and get a genuine feel for life as a trainee solicitor at Willkie London – along with insight into Willkie’s culture and people.

We welcome applications from students in their penultimate year, final year and those who have graduated. Please send any queries to graduaterecruitment@willkie.com.

Applications are open until Monday, 7 December 2026. To apply, visit here.

Additionally, join our Application Masterclass designed to give you an overview to the application and interview process. The virtual event is on Wednesday, 30 September at 1-2pm UK time and you can register here.

I look forward to reviewing your applications!

 

[Unknowncabbage]

Are people including a module breakdown on their CV for DLA? and also is two pages fine?

 

[user55998384]

macs pfo wvs

 

[QuillandCounsel]

Did anyone else get an email from DLA that said their applications are open but it says "we do not recruit on a rolling basis"? (This was after registering interest on their site a little while ago) When their FAQs says rolling

 

[thedonnabrief]

Hi, sorry for being annoying but is anyone still waiting on these firms to send the 1st stage assessment?

Dechert - Applied 7th Sep
Hogan Lift Off - Applied 9th Sep
Dentons - Applied 9th Sep
Reed Smith - Applied 13th Sep

Just got a Gibson Dunn hold email, not sure what that implies

 

[sagekensuke]

Hi, sorry for being annoying but is anyone still waiting on these firms to send the 1st stage assessment?

Dechert - Applied 7th Sep
Hogan Lift Off - Applied 9th Sep
Dentons - Applied 9th Sep
Reed Smith - Applied 13th Sep

Just got a Gibson Dunn hold email, not sure what that implies

Hey, sorry don't have any info about the other firms. Was your holding email for GD before/after the test?

 

[Maria56]

Did anyone else get an email from DLA that said their applications are open but it says "we do not recruit on a rolling basis"? (This was after registering interest on their site a little while ago) When their FAQs says rolling View attachment 8411

Got the email as well. They seemed to have changed the application process as well, so