TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Mike Ross 2025]

Have ropes sent another PFO batch today?

I'm not sure. There were loads of PFO's yesterday but only seen 1 or 2 today and I'm unsure if they are just delayed responses from the same batch.

 

[Hopeful applicant]

I've done 96 applications; non-law.

"why this law firm?"
"it's a law firm"

in all seriousness respect the dedication--I could never

 

[User093269823]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6

 

[nalinp]

Hi!

I would avoid trying to fill the entire 250 words if the entry doesn't require it - it's completely fine to use less if it is a less substantive experience! Generally, I would aim to discuss the role you had, the responsibilities it involved, and the transferable skills that you gained. If you have done this, it is completely fine if it is less than 250 words

thank you!

 

[amb303]

I definitely need to work on reading nuances on questions then. I think every SJT I have done this year has gone abominably, to put it lightly. Thanks for the advice though

It was very very similar last year and I passed last year and not this year

 

[aria_d]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6

35! I know many people say that its quality over quantity but I think that quantity > quality just a bit. I did around 25 apps for first year schemes and was able to attend many schemes and open days and I think this is what makes me lean towards quantity,,,

 

[haribolover]

Has anyone heard back from HL Summer Vac scheme having completed the second stage by around January 10th?

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6

So far 30 apps. A few of the apps only asked for grades, work experience and/or 1 question: Weil, Freshfields, Milbank, Hogan Lovells, W&C, etc.

I tried to find a bit of balance between quality and quantity. I know some people will prefer one or the other but I think in the middle can work too!​

 

[TCLAuser2002]

Has anyone heard back from HL Summer Vac scheme having completed the second stage by around January 10th?

I completed stage 2 on december 15 and got a PFO yesterday!

 

[AGB2060]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6

8, had a few more in mind but burnt out fully and honestly glad I didnt

 

[TCLAuser2002]

8, had a few more in mind but burnt out fully and honestly glad I didnt

8 with 2 VS impressive tbh Congrats!

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Cleary PFO (obvious)
Shoosmiths reserve???? Okay ig idk

 

[MarriedToWaiting]

Anyone still waiting on Ashurst? Saw one person get a call earlier.

 

[ADhillon01]

If anyone has the Marriott Harrison and/or Fladgate AC coming up, pm me! Be happy to talk over some stuff and brainstorm!

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Sorry to butt into convo and I also recognise im probably getting a bit ahead of myself but does anyone know how firms are (if given a TC from a Spring VS) with waiting until all vs schemes (August) are done to accept an offer?
I'd realistically pick the spring firm but I definitely want to consider all my options. I know it is firm specific but does anyone know if theres a sorta standard or if specific firms are public about things

I'm wondering this too...

 

[biglawslave]

Hey! Does anyone know what the Macfarlanes 1st assessment is like? Is it an Amberjack/Capp and does it have a VI? Applying to their DTC but I couldn't find much info.. Thanks in Advance!

 

[AGB2060]

8 with 2 VS impressive tbh Congrats!

Thank you thank you! Kinda put my all into this forgot about uni haha

 

[lawstudent2]

Anyone still waiting on Ashurst? Saw one person get a call earlier.

Idk what to make of it, I cannot tell if they have made all of their offers today and we are about to get rejected or if there is still a chance

 

[MarriedToWaiting]

Idk what to make of it, I cannot tell if they have made all of their offers today and we are about to get rejected or if there is still a chance

Not unheard of for firms to make offers late into the day. Having said that...This is a painful wait.

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

This is my 7th AC and I’ve never experienced an interview like this one, at every single thing I said the interviewer interjected in some way to probe at. First it seemed fair, but it came to a point where they were just laughing at their own jokes poking fun at things I said. I don’t really care if I get an offer, I would never want to work with a partner like that but wow I knew law could be bad but I never anticipated that what a horror story!

Honestly disgusting. The worst part is that they had to go through an interview to get where they are. The fact that they lack any sort of empathy having been in your shoes more disappointing. There will be better things around the corner, I am sure of it. Good luck with the rest of the application season

Tbh they likely have not been in our shoes. The rigmarole for traineeship has just gotten more and more complex and it is likely that the people setting these up have no idea the hoops we have to jump through. Regardless, they should have basic empathy and know what it's like to apply for a job. Hope you get some good news @aspiringtrainee1 !