TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Harvey Specter]

Not sure about Mayer Brown but Weil only closed yesterday so don’t think anyone has heard yet. Seems like they aren’t really rolling for their events.

In the email Weil sent after I submitted the 8th Oct insight day app, it said apps are reviewed on a rolling basis but before invites are sent out, all apps would be reviewed by early careers.

For the 8th Oct insight day, the deadline was 28th Sept and I received my invite the next day, on the 29th. They said they had received 200+ apps for 25-30 places, which is insane!

They might receive more apps for this upcoming insight day. They have insight evenings over the next few weeks which all have varying deadlines so are probably reviewing those too.​

 

[Sachin Chandra]

How many days do we have to complete the test?

7 days

 

[TCLA Moderator]

Hi everyone!

We just wanted to post a quick reminder about what can and can’t be shared on TCLA. We really appreciate how much everyone contributes - your insights help make the legal profession more accessible, and it’s great to see you all supporting others on their journey.

At the same time, we want to ensure we strike the right balance between sharing useful information and maintaining the integrity of firms’ recruitment processes.

✅ You are welcome to share:

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• Video interview questions; or
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We know everyone here wants to help others succeed, and thank you for continuing to do that while keeping the process fair for all applicants!

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[Dannie]

Does Mayer Brown's immersive assessment have VI component?

 

[Afuturetrainee]

Is the Mayer brown test automatic?

Yes. Everyone gets it

 

[bh.sa]

This may be a silly question, but how do I answer this?

'How do you rate your computer skills? Please give details.'

The rating is just a drop-down selection box but what am I meant to write for 'please give details?'

 

[NickH]

Does anyone know whether Hogan Lovells' first test is automatic? I submitted my app on Friday and haven't received anything.

Hey just wanted to mention that I submitted Fri as well and haven't recd the test so far :/

 

[johnsmith]

Hey just wanted to mention that I submitted Fri as well and haven't recd the test so far :/

It took 4 days for mine to come through after applying so don’t worry it’s just not immediate

 

[NickH]

It took 4 days for mine to come through after applying so don’t worry it’s just not immediate

ah superb, thanks a lot for letting me know. Appreciate it

 

[LaDiva]

Anyone else applying to Withers? They've got some of the quirkiest questions...imagine your life was a mascot, what would it look like and what would it cheer for? I don't know whether to laugh or cry 😂

 

[ACHat8r]

I am waiting for their PFOs. Some asked about the outcome of the open day last week, but nobody replied.

No one shared invites here, though their open day is within 2 days.

I got an open day invite. Applied 22 September to their open day and heard on 3rd oct. Hope that helps

 

[itsfearless15]

Does anyone know if Stage 1 freshfields test is automatic or do you get selected for it?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

This may be a silly question, but how do I answer this?

'How do you rate your computer skills? Please give details.'

The rating is just a drop-down selection box but what am I meant to write for 'please give details?'

Hi!

Not a silly question at all - I'd probably be a bit confused too!

I would rate your skills using the drop down box, and the "please give details" box could be used for a short explanation of what you can actually do. For example, you could write something like:

"I'm comfortable using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook, Powerpoint) and online research tools. I am confident in learning new software and managing digital files efficiently."

I would basically use that space to describe what kind of programs, tools, or systems you are comfortable with using - you don't need to oversell or undersell yourself. I wouldn't stress too much over the question, just be honest about your capabilities with digital systems.

I hope that helps!

 

[whywhy88]

Does anyone know if Stage 1 freshfields test is automatic or do you get selected for it?

It's automatic I believe!

 

[i-want-a-tc]

Freshfields - is the 'second stage' automatic, or is that one you get progressed to? thr website doesnt mention multipel stages so how does everyone know there are

Does anyone know if Stage 1 freshfields test is automatic or do you get selected for it?

Automatic for Stage 1, not sure about Stage 2

 

[ravioli]

Hey! Did anyone attend the Skadden application webinar this year? If you did, do you happen to remember the trainees' names? I'd really appreciate it if you could message me with that info. Thanks so much!

 

[Bbhu19]

Has anyone finished the video interview for PWC and how long till you reviewed a response?

 

[Maddy]

Has anyone received Ashurst AC or written exercise invites after the application and test? I saw that some people have received them, but has anyone received any new invites? Does this mean it’s a rejection? Since November 9th is coming soon and we still haven’t received any written exercises.

 

[aspringlawyer25]

Can anyone provide any insights into the Freshfields assessment? Is there a VI component, and what sort of questions are asked- SJT, strengths-based, or motivational?

 

[futuretraineeihope]

Have all the Ashurst online AC invites gone out??