TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[IshantheG]

This might be a slightly silly question, but I’m genuinely trying to get some clarity on how we’re supposed to research firms effectively. Is there essentially a “hit list” of things we should be looking for?

I asked a similar question at a Pinsent Masons event, and one of the things that came up was that, ultimately, firms often do very similar types of work. For example, if you’re interested in disputes, there are certain fundamental things you’ll be doing regardless of which firm you join.

So, in that case, how do we actually identify the nuance between firms? What should we be looking for that goes beyond practice areas and headline deals, that one thing that makes you think, “Ah-ha, this is why I specifically want to work here.

@Antoni Trochimowicz and @all

 

[anon78365222111]

DLA test

 

[Jourani]

i've done 4 VS last cycle, didn't convert unforuatntely, should i apply to vac schemes or just direct tc? thank you!

 

[Tap-204863]

Has anyone still not received the CSR for DLA- I applied on the 24th of september

nope, also applied on 24th but had to make an update to my CV yesterday...not sure if that's the reason why

 

[Enyonam]

Ashurst written exercise invite!

 

[amitonalfo]

anyone have insight into ashurst written exercise? can exchange for all stages latham last year, HLC, and kirkland last year

 

[Lawstoodent]

Hi everyone!
If anyone has done the Jones Day online interview let me know please

 

[Jaysen]

Ashurst written exercise invite!

Well done!

 

[tldrba]

HLC WVS Stage 1 finally…

 

[rrr]

Does no Ashurst email mean pfo?

 

[Amelia.05]

Is this for winter or spring scheme?

Ashurst written exercise invite!

 

[marshmallow]

Does no Ashurst email mean pfo?

im hoping they send in batches :')

 

[BM99]

Does no Ashurst email mean pfo?

Already assume so

 

[Applicationszn2627]

Hi, I was looking at the Paul Hastings questions and I'm not sure how to approach them since they appear quite similar to me. They are
Why do you wish to complete a work placement with us?

What has attracted you to Paul Hastings?
Both these questions seem to be asking 'why this firm', so how would you differentiate your answer between the two questions? Thanks!

 

[Enyonam]

Is this for winter or spring scheme?

Hi, it’s for the winter scheme

 

[rose06]

Are K&E applications rolling or non-rolling for the TC?
Also, does anybody know their stance on uni grades? I didn't hear from gradrec or from someone directly that they want a first, or above 65 in each module, or etc that Slaugher/Cleary ask for. But, I also asked their current trainees and they said everyone in their cohort has achieved a 1st. I am hence not sure how they actually look at a 2:1 average in first year. Thanks!

 

[vacschemes]

Are K&E applications rolling or non-rolling for the TC?
Also, does anybody know their stance on uni grades? I didn't hear from gradrec or from someone directly that they want a first, or above 65 in each module, or etc that Slaugher/Cleary ask for. But, I also asked their current trainees and they said everyone in their cohort has achieved a 1st. I am hence not sure how they actually look at a 2:1 average in first year. Thanks!

not sure how strict they are with grades but they seem to favour oxbridge students

 

[alanshore]

Couldn't complete freshfields stage two as I've been traveling and moving in and got pfo'd. With this and pinsent masons autorejecting me accidentally, this is not my luckiest cycle lols

 

[Antoni Trochimowicz]

any advice on how to prepare for a vacation scheme? i am working part time so will not have much time to prepare. advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi! I think a lot can be done to maximise your chances even with limited time, so please do not stress too much! A little stress is healthy but you should feel amazing about yourself that you made it that far

I would personally really try to nail down what the firm is assessing and how it is doing so. Of course, there are the usual office etiquette & note taking tips but that is much more general. For vacation schemes, many firms are different. For instance, Slaughter and May doesn't assess the scheme essentially in any way bar the final interview. On the other hand, Linklaters assesses your overall work in departments, interview, alongside a few 'projects' that you are given.

To find this out, some firms are quite kind and tell you in advance of the scheme, but otherwise I would reach out to future trainees at the firm you are completing a scheme at. This would be your best source of information. If you build rapport with them, they may also give you their insider tips as to who to reach out to etc.
Hopefully this was helpful and wishing you all the best on your scheme !

 

[Jonjones]

Hi, I was looking at the Paul Hastings questions and I'm not sure how to approach them since they appear quite similar to me. They are
Why do you wish to complete a work placement with us?

What has attracted you to Paul Hastings?
Both these questions seem to be asking 'why this firm', so how would you differentiate your answer between the two questions? Thanks!

Yh agreed not really sure where to start here. Is the first more why do you want to specifically train at PH and the second a more general what practice areas, deals, culture etc thing