• Hey Guest, Have an interview coming up? We’ve opened new mock interview slots this week. Book here
  • TCLA Premium: Now half price (£30/month). Applications, interviews, commercial awareness + 700+ examples.
    Join →

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

For SH VI, does anyone know what the cut off seems to be for Amberjack? Last year I got an email saying I didn't meet the score requirements and I was wondering what it might be
I also applied to SH last cycle and completed the Amberjack but I never heard back one way or the other so I'd also be interested to know what the threshold is for the SJT if anyone knows. Wonder whether my performance was so bad it didn't even warrant a response!
Embarrassed The Audacity GIF
 
Am I mistaken in thinking that the Orrick AC does not include a dedicated one-on-one interview component, but rather a written exercise, a group exercise, and a trainee panel? Or is there an interview as well? Any clarification would be hugely appreciated.
 
  • Like
Reactions: TortillaTC
For SH VI, does anyone know what the cut off seems to be for Amberjack? Last year I got an email saying I didn't meet the score requirements and I was wondering what it might be
From what I have seen it varies quite a bit so I do not think there is a specific number I think the VIs must be much more important especially considering its the last stage not 100% sure though
 
Am I mistaken in thinking that the Orrick AC does not include a dedicated one-on-one interview component, but rather a written exercise, a group exercise, and a trainee panel? Or is there an interview as well? Any clarification would be hugely appreciated.
I’m also a bit confused. What’s certain are the group and written exercises which will be assessed, plus some trainee networking which they’ll also watch but not officially.

I think there also might be an interview, it’s hard to imagine that they don’t want to talk to us 1on1. I think they’ll send us a more detailed schedule a week before the AC.

I reached out to some people here who’ve done the AC last year, I’ll let you know if I find out anything.
 
  • Like
Reactions: Anon145
I am feeling scrambled after reflecting on my SH VI especially as it’s a final stage thing? Do you think they send out a lot of next stage offers or would it be equivalent to getting through to an AC at another firm? This is my last hope for this cycle as it’s been PFO’s from everywhere else I applied (keeping my fingers crossed). Anxiously checking every email even though it hasn’t been long.
 
Hi all,

Does anyone have any experience/know any trainees at Macfarlanes. Their websites states that they want trainees to study at BPP. However I am curious if this at a specific location or whether I can choose which BPP location to study at. Is this similar at other firms?

Thanks!
I don't know about Macfarlanes specifically, but for most firms you can study the GDL anywhere, and they want you to study the SQE in London
 
  • Like
Reactions: Mike Ross 2025

About Us

The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

Get Our 2026 Vacation Scheme Guide

Nail your vacation scheme applications this year with our latest guide, with sample answers to law firm questions.