TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[bh.sa]

I was in the same batch for Freshfields. Did you get a 2nd test invite?

Yes I got it on Oct 23

 

[silonthesofa]

To be fair, I did complete it on the 1st November, when it was due (for me) on the 3rd. Perhaps I did it too late, won't ever know aha!

Unlikely because they're not actually rolling. Well, they explained that they screen on a rolling basis, but aren't rolling because they don't allocate ACs until after the deadline has passed. Considering I'm only going to get the test invite link on Friday, I really hope they haven't decided to fill out all of their AC spots before I even have the chance to do the assessment.

 

[baj5]

PFO from both Ashurst and Freshfields today, I’m on fire 😮‍💨

 

[Trophy]

Stage 1 !

Hello,
Sorry to hear this!

I’ve taken FF star 1 test and not heard back when did you do your test? I did it 28th October.

 

[c.t.tc]

Unlikely because they're not actually rolling. Well, they explained that they screen on a rolling basis, but aren't rolling because they don't allocate ACs until after the deadline has passed. Considering I'm only going to get the test invite link on Friday, I really hope they haven't decided to fill out all of their AC spots before I even have the chance to do the assessment.

It's a little bit of both tbh - they don't stop reviewing and scoring applications but there is definitely a rolling element for their written exercise because they look at things in chronological order, if that makes sense?

 

[TCLA0322]

I have a question: when filling out the Norton Rose Fulbright form (for those using Workday), I am having issues entering my high school name. Also, for the university section, there is no option for 'LLB' when I try to select it; only course titles like 'Law with French Law' are available. Does anyone know how to fill this out? Thanks in advance.

 

[mg42guy32]

Since I was accepted onto a selective open day, should I be worried about my grades when applying for the firm's vacation scheme?

 

[johnsmith]

I have a question: when filling out the Norton Rose Fulbright form (for those using Workday), I am having issues entering my high school name. Also, for the university section, there is no option for 'LLB' when I try to select it; only course titles like 'Law with French Law' are available. Does anyone know how to fill this out? Thanks in advance.

I feel for you! I had this issue, their form was awful but I can't remember how I solved it!

 

[ExcitingEasting]

Had anyone heard from Baker McKenzie regarding their Women’s Open Day?

 

[Snickerdoodlesolicitor]

Had anyone heard from Baker McKenzie regarding their Women’s Open Day?

I also have not heard back and I emailed them but no response :/ looks like a big PFO

 

[futureharveyspecter]

Does anyone have any advice for the HL job sim? It is going to be my very first VI- so I'm not sure what I should expect. Are there any commercial-based questions, or is it all motivation?

 

[user55998384]

I think you’re safe to wait - the OD is next week and applications close this week so you'll hear quickly - OD will help enhance your VS application, particularly as they are VI heavy.

thank you!!

 

[TCLA0322]

Hogan Lovells stage 2 test invite, any insights would be appreciated 😱 nerve wracking on this... (Lift off track)

 

[a0]

HL Job Sim invite!! Was so nervous because I did the first assessment ages ago 😭

 

[e_turbo2]

Has anyone heard back either PFO or next stage for Macfarlanes following the simulate?

 

[WiddyJ]

HL Job Sim invite!! Was so nervous because I did the first assessment ages ago 😭

is this for summer or lift off?

 

[a0]

is this for summer or lift off?

Lift off!

 

[c.t.tc]

Anyone else not heard anything at all from Simmons? Did my test on the 25th and have seen ACs and PFOs flying about but nothing here

 

[plshireme]

Hello!

I completely get where you're coming from - a lot of people don't have a single "lightbulb moment" that pushed them toward law, and that's honestly very normal! However, I'd say it's best to focus your answer around one specific personal experience, even if your motivation developed gradually. The question specifically asks for "a specific personal experience", so I would say they're looking for you to anchor your answer around a moment or situation that you can describe clearly.

That doesn't mean you need a big "lightbulb moment" - it could just be one experience that represents or crystallised what motivated you to pursue a career in law. For example, something that made you appreciate problem-solving, negotiation, advocacy, or international collaboration - this can be any experience that ties into your wider motivations towards law.

I think it's a great idea to bring in your travels or other broader experiences, I would just try and pick one defining example. For instance, you might choose a moment that stood out in particular - such as an interaction, observation, or situation that sparked your curiosity about how law shapes society, business, or people's lives. You can then explain how that particular experience made you start thinking about law in a more concrete way and influenced what kind of work or environment you see yourself in.

In other words, I would use one experience as the lens through which you show how your motivation developed. That way, your answer stays focused and personal while still reflecting the wider journey that's led you towards a legal career.

I hope that helps, and best of luck with the application!

Thanks Abbie! This was a helpful perspective 😊

 

[TCseeker17]

Having really not expected anything, I am in the incredibly fortunate position of having received two winter vacation scheme offers from firms of a similar calibre (I don't have a particular preference but really like both). However, the dates of the schemes clash. I would hate to lose out on any opportunity given how competitive this all is! Does anyone have any ideas on what I could do - both firms offer summer schemes and direct TC routes (although say that most trainees are recruited via VS route)?