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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Yes, for me it says Archived. I guess that means a rejection. But good luck to everyone still in the race!
I just received an email from A&O saying that they are reviewing my application, it was an automated one. Did anyone else receive it?
Wow mine says archived too, I sill have hope and you should too!
It’s not over until it’s over!! Out of curiosity may I know when you submitted the application?
On the day of the deadline since it wasn't rolling, i didn't see the need to apply much earlier.
Hi everyone, does anyone know what the process is after submitting the Freshfields online application? (DTC)
I’m not sure what to expect next (e.g., what the online assessment includes or how soon they respond).
Any insight would be appreciated!
I’m not sure what to expect next (e.g., what the online assessment includes or how soon they respond).
Any insight would be appreciated!
Where did you see this? I have just checked the portal and can’t see where it will tell you it has been archived?
As always, I wouldn’t infer anything until you’ve been told explicitly that you’re out of the running. You will run yourself into the ground with worry.
After submitting your application you get a mail- below is an option to 'Access your application'. Once you log in you can see the status.
I prefer to apply for jobs as late as possible (usually the day before the closing date). It means I don’t have to wait as long to hear back.
Hi!
I can see in previous years (on this thread) that Sullivan & Cromwell hires from their vacation scheme in the first instance, and the direct TC route is typically used if they do not fill all of the spots with the vacation scheme. Whilst this may have changed for this year, I would keep that in mind when deciding which to apply for!
Given you're a career changer already in a legal-adjacent role, your work experience is likely to be a clear advantage, particularly if you are wanting to apply for the direct TC route. Another thing to consider is the timing, and the leave issue you mentioned. Since you're working full-time, it makes sense to prioritise VS applications for firms that solely require from their VS. S&C doesn't fall strictly into that category, so it's reasonable to focus your limited annual leave elsewhere.
If you feel you could put in a strong application later on, waiting for DTC apps in 2026 is a completely valid strategy - and one that I'm sure plenty of successful S&C candidates have taken. I think the most important consideration is how motivated you are to apply to S&C, and whether you'd prefer to maximise your changes by applying for their vacation scheme rather than DTC.
I hope that offers some assistance!
This was so helpful, thank you so much!Hi!
I can see in previous years (on this thread) that Sullivan & Cromwell hires from their vacation scheme in the first instance, and the direct TC route is typically used if they do not fill all of the spots with the vacation scheme. Whilst this may have changed for this year, I would keep that in mind when deciding which to apply for!
Given you're a career changer already in a legal-adjacent role, your work experience is likely to be a clear advantage, particularly if you are wanting to apply for the direct TC route. Another thing to consider is the timing, and the leave issue you mentioned. Since you're working full-time, it makes sense to prioritise VS applications for firms that solely require from their VS. S&C doesn't fall strictly into that category, so it's reasonable to focus your limited annual leave elsewhere.
If you feel you could put in a strong application later on, waiting for DTC apps in 2026 is a completely valid strategy - and one that I'm sure plenty of successful S&C candidates have taken. I think the most important consideration is how motivated you are to apply to S&C, and whether you'd prefer to maximise your changes by applying for their vacation scheme rather than DTC.
I hope that offers some assistance!
For those wondering what it looks like. Either it means a decision has been made on our application or just that we’re cooked 😂
I'm so sad about A&O, i'm assuming as i did not receive the "application under review" email, i'm probably out of the race. I will still be positive about it but wow
Hey!
Whilst I'm not 100% sure on the general timelines for HL, I would say that two months is definitely on the longer side - although this could be due to them handling the vacation scheme applications first. If I were in your position, I'd be inclined to send a brief and polite email just to double-check the status of your application.
I'd keep it very simple, for example:
"I'm writing to kindly check on the status of my Direct TC application submitted on [date]. I completely appreciate the high volume of applications, particularly with the vacation scheme applications as well, but I just wanted to confirm whether there are any updates or anything further required from my side".
I'd say it's totally normal to send something like this, and it might help flag if anything has been missed. Hopefully you hear back soon!
I just asked chatgpt and she said its most likely a rejection. I just deleted her, i'm not here for negativity right now🥲
Adopting Watson Glaser thinking will help a lot of you navigate this process without second guessing yourself. Until you hear an explicit PFO, assume you’re still in the running!
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