Hi Jaysen, thank you for the info! If I understand correctly, next applications for the actual LBA role will open some time at the end of 2026 and close early 2027, with a September 2027 start, right? Which means that doing the vacation scheme this summer could count towards our LBA application later this year (even if we wouldn't be directly interviewed)?
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TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
- Start date
Hey!
When I completed vacation schemes last cycle, I stayed in student accommodation for those I had to arrange myself. I found these were significantly cheaper than hotels (if it helps, I paid around £400 for two weeks for one of them) and they were still relatively close enough to central London to make commuting to and from the scheme really convenient.
Also, by the time I did my summer schemes, I technically wasn't a student anymore but was still able to stay in some accommodations. If that is something you are concerned about, it is definitely worth double-checking with each provider, as I'm sure it varies.
As others have mentioned, I'd also reach out to the firm you have the VS with and ask if they have any recommendations - they can usually provide you with a list of accommodation providers that other vacation schemers have stayed with in the past (and one firm even offered to contribute to my accommodation, in addition to providing the list)!
Best of luck!
I believe it's already closed - the deadline was midday today
I think that's right! I'll bring up any more questions at Thursday's event so the firm can answer this directly
Hi @Abbie Whitlock, I received a call from a firm with an offer for their SVS on Friday. They said if they aren't able to send the contract on that day they'll do it on Monday. But I haven't heard from them yet and I understand they might be busy. When would you say is the right time to send a follow-up email?
I’d say Tuesday evening/Weds morning
I had this exact situation with a firm and they quickly followed up on the Wednesday afternoon.
hi jaysen! could i just clarify: the application details say that decisions will be released week of 22 july and that the first placement runs week of 27 july. is that correct? that's a really short notice period and i can imagine might pose issues on the firm's side especially with visa verification
I think my cycle has finally closed, still awaiting a few firms but assuming PFOs from them. From 33 applications, I managed to get to 3 ACs and fortunately managed to convert all of them! Unfortunately, two of them do clash at the exact same time... Feeling slightly bummed about this since I'd worked a lot towards them but the timing was just unfortunate. Anyways, just wanted to say to everyone to never give up. There was so much I learnt from applying this cycle, through rejections and progressions. There were so many times I felt so demoralised and wanted to give up, but there is light at the end of the tunnel and I believe that persistence will pay off! All the best to everyone!!
Go land crabs!
this is elite ball knowledge, shoutout the University of American Samoa!
I got an invite to their AC on Thursday for the Leeds office. So I guess you might hear back soon depending on the office you chose
How to answer the question which asks for why you have chosen a specific office location?
Hey!
Congratulations on the vacation scheme offer!!
I would definitely agree with other forum users and say that I'd email them if you haven't heard by tomorrow evening - I've been in a similar situation before, and there's no harm in politely following up. However, it might just be that they haven't managed to get round to it today, so try not to worry
Hello!
I would focus on being specific about why that particular office, rather than giving generic reasons that could apply to any location. For example, you could mention the types of clients or sectors that office is known for (e.g. tech, finance, private client, etc.) and link that to your own interests or any relevant experience.
It could also be worth showing that you understand how that office fits within the firm as a whole - for instance, whether it has a distinct specialism or a different client base compared to other offices. Additionally (particularly if you can't find any information on the above), if you have any personal ties to the area, you can include those too. However, I'd try to go beyond just stating them and explain why that connection makes you want to build your career there long-term.
Overall, I'd ensure that your answer clearly links the location to your motivations, experience, and future career goals to the office location, rather than just listing reasons why the city or firm itself is appealing
anyone who has completed the macfarlanes job sim in this rec cycle please dm! greatly appreciate any insights x
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