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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Abbie Whitlock

Administrator
Staff member
Gold Member
Premium Member
Sep 11, 2025
216
173
Is there any point in applying to Dechert now, as many people have already received the test invite and it's being done on a rolling basis?
Hello!

I would say that it is still worth applying, even if people have received the test invite. Invites to the next stage in the process are usually sent in batches, especially for rolling deadlines, and so the only certain way to not be considered is to not submit an application at all!

If you are confident that you can submit a strong application before the deadline, I'd say it's worth a shot :)
 

ZNadeem

Legendary Member
Staff member
Future Trainee
TCLA Moderator
Gold Member
Premium Member
Forum Team
Mar 16, 2025
180
178
Please tell us something that not many people know about you. (max 250 words) - any advice on how to answer this? Especially as they've given 250 words and I'm unsure how to make the most of it

Hi! This is a really interesting question because it’s designed to give recruiters a glimpse of your personality beyond academics and work. With 250 words, they want more than a fun fact — they’re giving you space to tell a story.

Here’s how I’d approach it:

  1. Pick something unique and personal – ideally, a hobby, achievement, or experience that isn’t already mentioned elsewhere in your application. It doesn’t have to be dramatic — it just needs to be something that feels authentic to you (e.g. a niche sport, creative pursuit, unusual travel experience, or even a quirky long-term interest).
  2. Give context – explain briefly what the activity/interest is and how you got into it. Don’t assume the reader knows much about it.
  3. Describe your involvement – share what you’ve done, whether that’s achievements, commitment, or the skills/qualities it’s helped you develop.
  4. Add reflection – explain why it matters to you personally, what it says about your character, or how it’s shaped your outlook. This is the part that makes your answer memorable.
  5. Keep it engaging – use storytelling to bring it to life. Instead of just stating “I enjoy X,” give a little colour or anecdote.
The key is not to overthink “impressiveness.” They aren’t testing whether you’ve climbed Everest — they’re looking for authenticity, curiosity, and individuality.
 
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GT1205H

Active Member
Premium Member
Aug 2, 2025
15
19
Anyone else found the Hogan Lovells online assessment excessively long? For me it did not aligned with the timescales they mentioned. Particularly the Critical Reasoning section which is technically a full Watson Glaser ( 80 Q) which they said on average should take 35 minutes 🥲 and on top of that speed contributes to the score
 

SamiyaJ

Legendary Member
Apr 16, 2024
278
699
Anyone else found the Hogan Lovells online assessment excessively long? For me it did not aligned with the timescales they mentioned. Particularly the Critical Reasoning section which is technically a full Watson Glaser ( 80 Q) which they said on average should take 35 minutes 🥲 and on top of that speed contributes to the score
Completely agree. It was too long and I definitely spent more than the recommended 90 minutes on the assessment!
 
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TC seeker

Legendary Member
Premium Member
  • Aug 2, 2023
    173
    154
    Anyone else found the Hogan Lovells online assessment excessively long? For me it did not aligned with the timescales they mentioned. Particularly the Critical Reasoning section which is technically a full Watson Glaser ( 80 Q) which they said on average should take 35 minutes 🥲 and on top of that speed contributes to the score
    is it timed or untimed?
     

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