TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Abbie Whitlock]

me too - I remember seeing a post on the forum breaking down which firms recruit mostly from VS and which ones you can still have hope for DTC but I can't find it anymore... if someone's got the link...

Hi!

Hopefully this is the thread you are referencing - it might be slightly outdated, but still a helpful guide!

 

[kelsworking]

me too - I remember seeing a post on the forum breaking down which firms recruit mostly from VS and which ones you can still have hope for DTC but I can't find it anymore... if someone's got the link...

From last year (2024-25), so some data might be outdated but useful

Where firms recruit from (Vacation Scheme vs Direct TC applications) 2024-2025

Hi folks! To help you develop a well-rounded application strategy, we’ve put together the following thread highlighting where firms typically recruit from—whether it's through vacation schemes or direct training contract routes. We've organised firms into four categories: Firms which recruit a...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

 

[BuddyingLawyer744]

didnt know they were still doing acs. they said our group was the last one to interview

gosh why don't they just PFO me then - Summer applicant

 

[Isobel.liddle]

Has anyone heard back from Charles Russell Speechlys for the London office?

 

[lucyindia]

Hi!

Hopefully this is the thread you are referencing - it might be slightly outdated, but still a helpful guide!

thank you both!

 

[Shaky_Pete]

I'd just like to quickly chime in about the WG/SJT discussion.
Standardised testing is fine and objective all you want. However, the WG and SJT are not exactly standardised.

Wiki defines ST as: a test that is administered and scored in a consistent or standard manner. It follows that these tests should be easy to practice, consistent to one another, and (most importantly) have correct answers.

WG: is administered by loads of different providers with different standards as to what is "correct." This makes it almost impossible to practice and do consistently well in, because correct answers fluctuate massively depending on the test provider. In addition, certain sections are weighted differently depending on the administrator or the firm.

SJT: do not even get me started. These -- cappfinity in particular -- have absolutely no correct answer. The options each measure a different trait, and lord knows how the slider ones are scored. People routinely get the same quality as their best and worst after taking the same test, which is a clear indication that these tests are bullsh*t. Absolute laziness from firms tbh.

And that is before taking into account how these are used in recruitment. If these were being used consistently and in a standard manner, candidates who score highest would automatically progress, right? But that is not the case. In addition, I really dislike how these are used to "predict behaviour" that is seemingly inconsistent with reality.

TLDR: i am frustrated at the opaque and frankly somewhat lazy recruitment process.

Agreed. WGs are too subjective. And in a typical WG, there will be a few questions that are simply poorly written, leading to more than one answer being arguably correct. I actually prefer the verbal reasoning questions in the Amberjack tests.

And SJTs are obviously a load of nonsense.

The fairest would be IQ style tests with objectively right/wrong answers...

 

[1stCycleApplicant]

has anyone received a pfo post Milbank ac, or been given an offer having done an ac on the 7th jan?

 

[BealMcAlly]

The PFO fatigue is real. What stings the most in the rejections is when they decide to specify how high quality the applications have been this year....

I don't need to know that unless you are progressing me? Such a slap in the face, honestly.

 

[yasmars]

Hi!

Hopefully this is the thread you are referencing - it might be slightly outdated, but still a helpful guide!

Thanks @Abbie Whitlock! I think I’ll leave SH for DTC and prioritise Orrick VS instead

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hello @Abbie Whitlock
I was wondering what are some current issues in the banking & finance sector in particular - I have fintech and interests rates, but aside from that, I was wondering about specific things regarding this particular sector

Thank you

Hi!

Great question! Whilst I am definitely not an expert on the topic, some key current issues that you could discuss include:

• Cybersecurity and operational resilience: particularly as banks continually digitise, cyber risk and system outages are major concerns
• Growth of private credit: this raises systemic risk issues and changes how businesses might want to access finance
• Regulatory pressure and reform: banks are facing increasingly complex regulation, which can affect profitability and competitiveness
• Geopolitical and macroeconomic uncertainty: things such as sanctions and supply-chain disruption can impact banks' risk management

Hopefully that helps give you some ideas of other topics to discuss!

 

[Donna Paulsen]

Anyone hear from CRS (Cheltenham office)?

 

[rrr]

WBD test is so fun and finally one that i don't feel distracted half way

what's it like. the email syas it takes 5 mins? or did i read that incorrectly...

 

[rrr]

It's nice to complete, but it also feels kinda BS as a test. I kind of worry with these sorts of tests that they miss many good qualities/objective ability.

what do you have to do? i've never done one before

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Guys...wait. Covington Summer AC WTF WTF WTF. Summer application, applied literally just around the deadline

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Does anyone have any advice on maintaining momentum? This hasn’t been a great cycle for me and honestly this whole process makes me feel stupid lol I don’t know if it’s worth it to continue to pursue this career anymore

Hey!

I totally get that feeling, and I am really sorry to hear that you feel this way - I felt a similar way last cycle after failing to be successful in any of the (many!) winter vacation scheme applications I made. This process is genuinely brutal and often comes down to timing and luck, among other things.

What helped me push through was reminding myself that you can never really predict how an application will go, and that you might be pleasantly surprised by the outcome. While I was rejected from firms that I was really keen on, I also progressed and received offers when I didn't expect it, including with firms that I was convinced I had no chance with (and I ended up really enjoying my time there!). That helped me reframe the uncertainty of the process as a positive rather than something to fear all the time (though I appreciate it is still a stressful element!).

It's also completely okay to feel tired and to question whether this path is right for you, and that doesn't mean you are failing. Sometimes taking a short step back or just giving yourself permission to feel disappointed can make a big difference - it definitely feels like you have to be 'on' all the time in this process, but it'll still be here after a break if you need it! You are definitely not stupid, and a tough cycle absolutely does not define your ability or your future in this career - many of the most talented and amazing trainees and lawyers I know had several unsuccessful cycles.

Try to be kind yourself, and have faith that you will end up in the right firm or place for you. I'll be rooting for you!

 

[TCLAuser2002]

Guys I have a VI with Dac Beachcroft i don't even know why I applied, their practice of areas are not my cup of tea but their application process was CV submission only. Any insights on the VI will be appreciated

 

[ArthurWeasleyLaw]

Anyone know if these firms have progressed anyone from the application stage yet?

Osbourne Clarke
Ropes & Gray
Covington
Orrick
Debevoise & Plimpton
Katten
Greenberg Traurig
Proskauer Rose
Sidley Austin

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

GIBSON DUNN VACATION SCHEME OFFER

CRYING MY EYES OUT ATM

Spring or Summer?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

I was wondering if anybody could give me some advice:
I have an interview on 5th Feb and I assumed I’d get cover for work so accepted it as it was the only date and time available (I think it is the last day the firm is doing ACs) however nobody at work can cover me now. I know it’s completely my fault and really irresponsible to accept the ac before 100% knowing I could make it, but I’ve never not been able to get a shift covered/rearranged so I didn’t deep it. If I ask the firm for another date, is it likely they would be understanding?

Hey!

Just to add on to what others have said, I would try not to beat yourself up too much about it!

In most cases, firms are understanding, especially if there are valid work commitments. It is definitely worth emailing them as soon as possible, explain the situation clearly and politely, and ask whether any alternative arrangements are possible. Even if it is the last scheduled AC date, they may be able to move you to an earlier one if there is space or if someone else has dropped out.

The key part is to be proactive, apologetic (without over-apologising!), and flexible where you can. If they genuinely can't accommodate a change, at least you'll know that you asked and handled it professionally - at the end of the day, the worst thing they can say is no!

I hope you are able to sort it, and best of luck with the AC!

 

[CupOfTea17]

Hey guys! Just looking for some advice. Is it worth applying to firms for DTC if i have never done a VS (at any firm) and have some (but not extensive) legal experience?

Previously i thought it would be a waste of time but would love to know others thoughts?