TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[applicant457]

Hi guys, I got 4/4 2/4 3/4 3/4 for my arctic shores test, got stressed and kinda messed it up. Will that cause an autoreject from NRF? Am I below the benchmark, and does anyone know what the benchmark is?

 

[LuckyLegallyBrunette]

Anyone else also having issues with Freshfields online application? Rare Recruitment says system error when I tried to upload my university grades twice.

 

[emily3827]

how do you approach the anything else to add question on apps like Dechert and hogan - is it meant to be a way to add a why commercial law why that firm answer or is it actually for other information

 

[floral.tcla]

Hey!

For technical case studies, I have previously found that a good approach is to break them down into different steps:

1. Understand the problem clearly - take a moment to restate the brief in your own words and identify what the key issue or objective is. This shows that you're thinking critically and not jumping straight into a solution. I always found that when I ensured that I understood the actual issue being discussed, I found it easier to then tackle the solutions and consequences and discuss this with the interviewers (if applicable).
2. Structure your answer - I would use a simple framework (e.g. outline the problem, explore possible solutions, weigh the pros / cons, and then recommend a solution based on that balance). Even if your solution isn't perfect, if you show your thought process through a clear structure, this demonstrates strong reasoning.
3. Talk through your thought process - similar to the above, interviewers often case more about how you think rather than whether you get the "right" answer. I would be transparent about any assumptions that you are making, and flag where you would need to find out more information before making a definitive answer.

It can also help to practice a few examples in advance, so that you get comfortable explaining your reasoning aloud. There are some great resources available on TCLA that I utilised when preparing for case studies (these can be found in the TCLA Wiki, which has a ton of other handy threads):

• Definitive Guide to Law Firm Case Studies by Jacob Miller
• Private Equity: A Basic Guide by Amma Usman

I hope that helps - best of luck, you've got this!

Thank you so much Abbie!

 

[floral.tcla]

Congratulations! can I ask when you applied?

Thank you! I applied a few days before the deadline😅

 

[tcapplicant.1]

does getting invited to Hogans 2nd stage online assessment mean your application has passed screening or just passed the first online test?

 

[lawstudent2]

How long have people had to wait to receive an email confirmation from hogan lovells after completing the second sjt?
Mine crashed halfway and I had to refresh it and I thought it was fine as at the end it said assessment completed and submitted, however, its been 5 hours and no confirmation email has arrived so I am a bit worried now.

 

[Bbhu19]

does getting invited to Hogans 2nd stage online assessment mean your application has passed screening or just passed the first online test?

Congratulation, when did you do the first test if you don’t mind me asking?

 

[coolwizard22]

Just got an invite to the Ashurst online written assessment. How can I best prepare for this? Has anyone done a written assessment before? I would appreciate any insight!

 

[c.t.tc]

Taylor Wessing Open Day invite!

 

[Amgrad]

Taylor Wessing Open Day invite!

Congratulations, OMG same! Waiting for Cooley & CRS open day invite too

 

[Amgrad]

Hello!

Whilst I can’t confirm whether they will sponsor visas for vacation schemes this cycle, it is always worth emailing the graduate recruitment team to double-check, especially if you have a strong application ready to submit. There’s still a while until the application deadline, so there should be plenty of time for them to reply and I’m sure they’d be more than happy to confirm for you

I’m sorry to hear that your last AC felt isolating - being the only one attending virtually must’ve been tough, but it’s super impressive that you made it that far!

Whatever you decide, wishing you the best of luck. You’ve got this!

Thank you! White & Case has confirmed they won't sponsor visa for WVS this year, still waiting for Hogan Lovells to respond.

 

[user9809]

Does anyone know when the deadline is for PWC legal vacation scheme?

 

[helloj]

im confused about lathams open day app process. i did the app form and the assessment. i have now just received a second stage invite for further tests? is this the normal process?

 

[aspringlawyer25]

im confused about lathams open day app process. i did the app form and the assessment. i have now just received a second stage invite for further tests? is this the normal process?

Same! it's quite confusing and a bit excessive for an open day application isn't it?

 

[helloj]

Same! it's quite confusing and a bit excessive for an open day application isn't it?

honestly! and they have only given 3 days like?!!

 

[Afuturetrainee]

Same! it's quite confusing and a bit excessive for an open day application isn't it?

It's not for the open day. Grad rec said if u do this test, you won't need to do another one when you apply for a vac scheme.so this is ur official test. Take it seriously

 

[GT1205H]

Does anyone knows how bad is it if you get cut off at the last bit of a VI recording because of the time limit? 🫣 if it happens in one question only would it still be a rejection?

 

[Afuturetrainee]

It's not for the open day. Grad rec said if u do this test, you won't need to do another one when you apply for a vac scheme.so this is ur official test. Take it seriously

It does not also guarantee u a place on the open day, but if u still decide to apply for a vac scheme then this test score will be used

 

[helloj]

It does not also guarantee u a place on the open day, but if u still decide to apply for a vac scheme then this test score will be used

i didnt know that! thank you