TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[nonlawstudent98]

have any offers for w&c winter vs gone out ?

They said we should hear next week!

 

[applicant3000]

Does anyone know when Dechert's open event is/when they'll get back to us? Just says Nov on the website

 

[Dogecoin GC]

Does anyone know when Dechert's open event is/when they'll get back to us? Just says Nov on the website

I'd also like to know that. Waiting for them, PW and Gibson.

 

[tball]

Any advice for Freshfields and Clyde & Co online test stage 1?

 

[elliece]

Any advice for Freshfields and Clyde & Co online test stage 1?

I haven't done Clyde's, but for Freshfields it is a regular Cappfinity test with sjt and ranking questions, then a watson-glaser style critical thinking test. I would say do the practice tests on their preparation hub and some watson-glaser practice questions and you should be good!

 

[Amgrad]

For Taylor Wessing online tests, is it just the verbal critical thinking test, or is there an element of numerical and/or SJT?

Attended their open day and the HR said there is a timed numerical and verbal tests. The others are untimed.

 

[Meg_Thee_Applicant]

@Abbie Whitlock @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman hey guys, im just planning the NRF cover letter but its a bit different than the usual. "Tell us why you want to join, what excites you about our programme, and how your skills match our values. Keep it personal and specific."
Im interpreting this as - Why NRF, why this specific TC (training and opportunities), then why me (then match to values). Am I on the write lines? + any suggestions as to structure/content would be amazing. Thank you so much!!!! <3

 

[c.t.tc]

Attended their open day and the HR said there is a timed numerical and verbal tests. The others are untimed.

I’ve done the tests - there were two and they were both timed. They are both verbal reasoning based but one is slightly more varied in terms of question style.

 

[Chriss]

Anything from Akin?

 

[Amgrad]

I’ve done the tests - there were two and they were both timed. They are both verbal reasoning based but one is slightly more varies in terms of question style.

Thx for the correction. I meant verbal and critical thinking test, not numerical. Pardon me I was mixing up with another verbal test which usually paired with numerical.

 

[c.t.tc]

Thx for the correction. I meant verbal and critical thinking test, not numerical. Pardon me I was mixing up with another verbal test which usually paired with numerical.

No worries! I always get mixed up had double checked anyway to remind myself which one it was

 

[yk1906]

Any info on Paul Hastings openings this year? Either for DTC or VS or both....

 

[Lawlawland]

Is there any added advantage if you do the virtual work simulation of the law firms you're applying to?

 

[Bbhu19]

Is there any added advantage if you do the virtual work simulation of the law firms you're applying to?

Some firms like CC want to see you have done their forage whilst others just like to see that you have attempted them

 

[emily3827]

if im reapplying to nrf svs after post-vi rejection, would you recommend redoing the app or can I just use the same one bc realistically not much has changed

 

[applicant3000]

Some firms like CC want to see you have done their forage whilst others just like to see that you have attempted them

Do they ever check the work you uploaded to forage? I definitely did not do them to the standard I would have done had I know they checked

 

[Lawlawland]

Some firms like CC want to see you have done their forage whilst others just like to see that you have attempted them

Thanks for for the inputs!

 

[Amgrad]

Do they ever check the work you uploaded to forage? I definitely did not do them to the standard I would have done had I know they checked

They can't if your profile is private or use another email. I'd personally done some back at college with university email address, not personal email that I used for job application.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

For Reed Smith, 9/9 for both applied intellect and digital mindset, but 4/9 for both grit and creative force... Is there still a chance?

Hey!

Whilst I'm not too sure on all the considerations they make, I scored 25 overall in my Reed Smith SJT so I'd say that there definitely is still a chance based on your scores!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

@Abbie Whitlock @Andrei Radu @Amma Usman hey guys, im just planning the NRF cover letter but its a bit different than the usual. "Tell us why you want to join, what excites you about our programme, and how your skills match our values. Keep it personal and specific."
Im interpreting this as - Why NRF, why this specific TC (training and opportunities), then why me (then match to values). Am I on the write lines? + any suggestions as to structure/content would be amazing. Thank you so much!!!! <3

Hello!!

Yes, sounds like you are absolutely on the right track. The way you've broken it down into 'why NRF', 'why their programme', and 'why you' is how I would generally interpret it too! It seems like a slightly more personal twist on the cover letter, but I think following those questions makes a lot of sense.

In terms of structure, I would perhaps follow something along the lines of:

• Why NRF ("Tell us why you want to join"): Start by showing what draws you to the firm itself - maybe their global presence, standout practice areas, or commitment to innovation or sustainability. If you've spoken to NRF lawyers or read about a deal or initiative that really resonated with you, mention it here to make your answer specific and authentic.
• Why this TC ("What excites you about our programme"): I would then move into what excites you about their training contract in particular - e.g. the international opportunities, variety of seat options, client exposure, or emphasis on professional development. Make sure that you show how these aspects align with what you're looking for in your training experience, with reference to your past experiences and future ambitions.
• Why you ("How your skills match our values"): Finish your cover letter by connecting your own skills and experiences to NRF's core values. I would back up each point you make with a brief example - for instance, times you've shown collaboration or adaptability. This helps demonstrate that your motivations and approach fit naturally with the firm's culture. They'll be wanting you to display self-awareness and reflection on your past experiences and skills, and why this makes you a good fit.

I'd write a short closing paragraph that ties it all together - something that reaffirms your enthusiasm for the firm and your eagerness to contribute to the firm in the future. Just make sure that you are making the cover letter personal and specific, such as including references to your past experiences and personal motivations where you can.

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