TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[FutureAntitrustLawyer]

Hi all, thinking about applying to Sullivan & Cromwell for their DTC. As someone from a non-RG and given that a majority of their trainees are from RG unis, is it still worth applying?

 

[TortillaTC]

Hi, for fried Frank’s CV, they’ve said that we should include all grades. I have several subjects across schooling and university which would probably take at least 3 pages. There’s also no part in the form where I can input individual grades. Given this, what should I be doing?

Does everyone agree with this? I think they don't require all grades per module, just all schooling with final grades. I want to make sure before I submit haha

 

[sbbusybee]

Hi all, thinking about applying to Sullivan & Cromwell for their DTC. As someone from a non-RG and given that a majority of their trainees are from RG unis, is it still worth applying?

I’d like to know too!

 

[spamelinazoid]

What do people think the benchmark is for the Bakers amberjack? Scored really low on one pillar so im starting to obsess…

 

[tiredexhausted]

Does everyone agree with this? I think they don't require all grades per module, just all schooling with final grades. I want to make sure before I submit haha

I initially applied without grades in my CV. But after seeing a TCLA post, I wrote to grad rec, and they said

"Please resubmit your application with the relevant information on grades.​

We wish you the best of luck with your application."​

While it doesn't mention CV, it was in response to me directly stating that I missed including my grades on my CV. So I'm assuming you need all grades per module. Re GCSEs and A-levels, anyway, the form has separate questions to put your grades. Hope this helps!

 

[neverdidiever]

Does everyone agree with this? I think they don't require all grades per module, just all schooling with final grades. I want to make sure before I submit haha

I had roughly 60 modules in law school. it isnt feasible to include all of them on my cv. im thinking of just giving year end grades on the cv. Is it okay if I submit my grades in the space provided for university grade?

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

I had roughly 60 modules in law school. it isnt feasible to include all of them on my cv. im thinking of just giving year end grades on the cv. Is it okay if I submit my grades in the space provided for university grade?

I just did a separate sheet to the CV including all grades as requested. I got through to final stages

 

[soon-to-be trainee]

Does anyone know how white & case processes application post app+sjt? Do they review the application or is it purely based on test scores? Thanks.

 

[Legaluser_332]

Hey!

I did a virtual assessment centre last year, and I can share how it was structured for mine! A virtual AC is essentially the same as an in-person one, just over Teams/Zoom.

When you take part in the group exercise, it is likely they'll put you into breakout rooms to discuss the task in your teams, and then you'll come back together in the main room for the assessment itself. You'll normally be given information or a case study as a group and asked to discuss a recommendation or solve a problem together. They're usually assessing things like communication, commercial awareness, teamwork, listening skills, and whether you can contribute constructively without dominating the conversation. A lot of people make the mistake of thinking they need to speak the most, but being collaborative and helping the discussion move forward is usually much more important.

In my group exercise in my virtual AC, I found it quite difficult to add my points without interrupting people (as you can't read social cues like you could during an in-person one!), so I had a few of my team members ask whether I wanted to add my opinion to something as I hadn't had the chance to contribute. This initially made me stressed out that I had done badly in the task as a result, but I still received an offer in the end - I'd just make sure that all of your contributions add something to the task itself.

The interview could be motivational, competency-based, commercial, strengths-based, or a mix of them all. I'd definitely make sure that you have clear answers prepared for:

1. Why commercial law
2. Why the firm
3. Your experiences/roles on your CV
4. Common competency examples (e.g. teamwork/challenging situation/managing deadlines, etc.)
5. A few commercial topics or recent deals/news stories

As the AC is virtual, I'd also keep in mind the practical considerations - test your camera/mic beforehand, make sure your internet is stable, and have a quiet environment/set-up ready before you start. I know it sounds really basic, but it does remove an element of stress!

It is completely normal to feel lost, and firms aren't generally expecting perfectly polished applicants! They are usually looking much more at your potential, thought process, and interpersonal skills, so I'd give it your best shot and show why you are a good fit for the firm. Best of luck!!

This is so helpful, thank you Abbie!

This will be my first ever AC and I have not attended a vac scheme before either. Are you able to share what kind of exercises they use to test you?

I do think I’m overthinking this a lot.

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hi, I am planning to apply to Watson Farley Williams, but I am wondering where should I disclose my mitigating circumstances. There is one box that says I can add extra information on my undergrad degree, and one other that asks if I ever had to resit, the reason and outcome. Which one would be more appropriate?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

This is so helpful, thank you Abbie!

This will be my first ever AC and I have not attended a vac scheme before either. Are you able to share what kind of exercises they use to test you?

I do think I’m overthinking this a lot.

Hey!

No problem at all! I would say that everyone overthinks their first AC, as it is such an unfamiliar and scary process - I definitely was a nervous wreck for weeks before my first AC!

The exact exercises vary by firm, and it usually is a mix of a few of them, but the most common ones tend to be:

• Group exercises (usually discussing a case study or commercial problem as a team, but this can vary)
• Written exercises (e.g. drafting an email, short advice note, or analysing information under timed conditions)
• Interviews (usually a mix of motivational, competency, strengths, commercial, etc.)
• Case studies (you are typically given a bundle of documents and asked to discuss it or answer questions relating to it)
• Presentations (this could potentially be on a commercial topic, or a client pitch)
• In-tray or prioritisation tasks (you are typically presented with an email inbox, and asked to prioritise the tasks)
• Negotiation exercises (e.g. negotiating a share purchase agreement, or another commercial document)

Firms are usually not expecting you to already know how to do an AC perfectly, especially as it is likely to be many candidates first experiences with one. They are often testing things like your reasoning, communication, teamwork, commercial thinking, and whether you would be enjoyable to work with. It always reassured me to think that firms are not typically looking for a "perfect" candidate who has perfect legal knowledge - they are looking for someone who'll be a good trainee and has potential (i.e. can work well with others, is receptive to feedback, and has a proactive attitude).

I have written a few posts on the above exercises before - if you wanted to look into any in specific detail, you should be able to search them at the top. I have quoted a few of the main ones below for ease of reference!

The fact that you are preparing for the exercises in advance and thinking about it carefully already puts you in a good position (+ a much stronger one than I was for my first AC!). Once you get there and start the exercises, it feels far less intimidating

Wishing you the best of luck - just shout if you have any other questions. I'm sure you'll smash it!!

Hi @LegallyBrunette_ !

Huge congratulations on being invited to AC - what a fantastic achievement!

In the AC that I completed for my TC, I had to complete both a group exercise and a case study interview, so I can understand wanting to do all you can to prepare in advance. I can share what worked best for me!

Group Exercise

• In the group exercise, they are typically looking at how you work with others, not just what you contribute. Be collaborative, listen actively, and build on other people's points.
• Aim to contribute regularly but avoid dominating - asking others for their views on a topic can show leadership without being overbearing. I would always aim to not be the loudest or the quietest in the room, although I know finding this balance can be quite tricky!
• Keep the group focused on the task! I would always try and keep track of your progress and summarise the key decisions made as you go along.
• If you have to select an idea, don't worry if yours isn't chosen. What matters is how you respond and whether you support the group's direction.

Case Study Interview

• You'll usually be given a business / legal scenario with background documents. I would start by reading quickly to understand the big picture, and then go back to confirm the smaller details.
• Structure your response clearly - identify the client's goals, outline the key issues, and suggest practical next steps.
• They won't expect you to know black-letter law. Focus on logic, prioritisation, and showing that you can think commercially.
• Talk the interviewer through your thought process - even if you get stuck or seem confused, they can see how you reason.
• If given a contract to assess, make a note of the exceptions and calculations in the contract. You might be asked how your stance would change if X event occurred, and it's useful to be mindful of when it might fall under any exceptions.

I would also brush up on Jones Day's structure (e.g. their non-rotational training system and international work) just in case it comes up. They're assessing potential, not perfection - so as long as you stay calm and do your best, you'll be fine.

At the end of the day, they want to see the real you - someone who can think clearly, work well with others, and stay composed under pressure. If you go in with a collaborative mindset and a clear structure for approaching problems, you'll put yourself in a strong position.

Best of luck - you've already done the hard part by getting to this stage!

Hello!

Congratulations on getting the invite! Whilst I haven't completed the Ashurst written exercise, they will usually test your ability to communicate clearly and structure your arguments logically - similar to what you'd do as a trainee when drafting emails or internal notes.

I've outlined some previous tips that I always used when preparing for written exercises below:

• Practice timed writing - pick a 30-45 minute slot, read a short business or news article, and summarise the key points in a structured 1-2 page memo with a clear conclusion summarising your findings.
• Work on prioritisation - pick an article with a lot of information, and practice picking out the 3-4 most important issues rather than trying to summarise and include everything.
• Use a clear structure - this was the main thing that I implemented that helped me score higher on written assessments! Follow a clear structure in your answer, and practice what this would be for each type of document.
• Check clarity - after writing (potentially one of the above), ask yourself if someone with no context to the facts could follow along with the information and your reasoning.
• Proofread under pressure - I would get used to quickly checking grammar and flow, as this is really important in a written exercise! I sometimes struggled with this, as the pressure made me skip parts of my writing, but I found that literally following along with a pen or your finger can make sure you don't miss anything.
• Review sample case studies - I would have a look online and see if there are any free resources that you can have a go at. A true lifesaver during my last cycle was this forum post by Jacob Miller, and I would definitely give it a read!

The main thing that assisted me in written exercises is following a clear structure! I would go through and read all of the materials first, and then go back to pick out the key details. You should be looking for key issues, areas that you will require more information, and anything that you think is important for the client to know.

I would then follow a clear structure in your answer. There are a a few different types of documents that they could test you on - e.g. an email, memo, report, note, etc. I would have a look beforehand at the formatting of each, and have a go at writing them! If you are writing a letter / email to a client, make sure that you aren't including technical terms and writing in way that is easy for them to understand.

I would also try and find ways to showcase that you have the skills that they are looking for in trainees. For example, in one of my previous ACs I was asked to write an email to a supervisor. In this email, I outlined my arguments and recommendation, but I ended it by offering to draft the email / document for the client (e.g. proactivity). This will be dependant on each exercise, but if you can incorporate this in some way, I think it's a great way of standing out!

I hope that assists - best of luck with the written exercise, I'm sure you'll smash it!

Hello!

Huge congratulations on getting an invite to the Macfarlanes AC - that's a fantastic achievement!!

It sounds like you've already got a good handle on the competency interview, which is great! For the group negotiation, I'd recommend practicing staying calm and structured under pressure - try to balance contributing your ideas confidently while also showing that you can listen, build on others' points, and bring the group towards a practical consensus. Sometimes they are mainly assessing how you work well with others in the team, so I would focus on remaining professional at all times and working with the rest of your group. One thing that always used to help me was to summarise what had already been agreed at points throughout the negotiation - this shows that you are ensuring everyone is on the same page, and that you have been listening!

For the written exercise, it's usually about clear and logical communication under time pressure. If you can, I'd have a go at practising summarising complex information into concise recommendations - think about structuring your writing and being clear on what your rationale is. Structure was always really vital for me - it might be beneficial for you to have a read on the formatting of various types of documents (e.g. report, memo, client email, client letter, etc) to have an idea of what they will be expecting. Additionally, reading a few business case summaries can help you get into that concise and professional writing style.

For the case study interview, I would try to practice analysing unfamiliar information quickly. It might be worth reading through all of the documents first, and then going back to look at the fine details and identify the issues / opportunities. I would try and use a set framework to help you structure your thinking out loud - for example, what's the problem, what information do you have, what do you need, and what's your recommendation? You may be challenged on your thoughts, and remember to try and stay calm - show your thought process, and be open to changing your mind if they introduce a point you hadn't thought of.

Finally, I would also give yourself some time to do some more research into the firm. I know that it can feel like no amount of research will be enough, but I would try and bring your own perspective to discussions and show how you are a great fit for the firm!

Good luck! You've got plenty of time to prepare, and it sounds like you're approaching it in exactly the right way. I'm sure you'll smash it

Of course, no problem at all!!

Since client emails are such a common format in written exercises, it's definitely worth getting comfortable with how to approach them! A few things that I kept in mind when preparing:

Understand the Purpose and Audience

Before you start writing, clarify who you are writing to (e.g. a client, supervisor, or a colleague) and what information they need from you. The tone, level of formality, and structure will vary depending on whether it's an internal email or an email to an external client.

For example, if you are emailing a client, you want to ensure that they are able to understand any legal principles that you are outlining in your email. As such, it's important to make sure you write it in layman's terms and don't just recite the information given in the materials. However, if you are emailing a supervisor, I would focus on highlighting the most important pieces of information as you are effectively trying to save them time in going through the materials themselves. I would always aim to write in a professional way, and frame it like you would an actual email - such as a subject line and a closing sentence.

Use a Clear and Logical Structure

The main thing that I changed when approaching written exercises was making sure that I had a clear and logical structure. A good client email should be easy to follow. A simple structure could look like:

1. Opening: A brief, polite greeting and context for why you're writing (and what you'll be discussing in the email). If you're emailing a supervisor, it might be useful to include a short summary of your findings at the top (i.e. an early conclusion), and then go into more detail below.
2. Main Body: Summarise the key points or advice clearly and concisely, using short paragraphs. It might be appropriate to use headings and subtitles, especially if there is a lot of information. The goal is to make sure that the client can follow along, and that it isn't just a massive wall of text that is difficult to read.
3. Closing: End with next steps, an offer of assistance, or a polite sign-off (e.g. "Please let me know if you'd like to discuss further"). These elements distinguish an email exercise from a general report or memo, and shows that you are following the brief exactly! If you are emailing a supervisor, I would try to show some proactivity in the closing parts - such as offering to write a first draft of a document or client email.

Keep your tone professional and approachable

I would aim for clear, confident language without being overly formal (but still professional). This can be tricky, but phrases such as "I'd recommend..." or "It may be helpful..." strike a nice balance. Avoid overly technical language or long-winded phrasing - simplicity often conveys professionalism! As stated above, I would definitely avoid legal jargon if you are writing to a client, unless you are certain that a client would understand it.

Also remember that tone can shift slightly depending on the client's relationship with the firm. If you are told this information, a longstanding client might suit a warmer tone, whilst a first-time contact may call for a more formal approach. However, if in doubt, I would always go for a more formal approach - especially in a professional context!

Be precise and client-focused

Remember the purpose for why you are actually writing to the client, and tailor your response to the client's actual issue. I would avoid copying large chunks of background information from the brief (as the client will already have this information!) - instead, demonstrate understanding of their issue by reframing the key points in your own words and applying them directly to the client's situation. Make sure to keep your advice practical - clients care more about what they should do next than about the legal theory behind it. You might find it useful to use signposting phrases such as "In summary..." or "Based on the information provided..." to make your reasoning easy to follow. If there are uncertainties, I would make sure to address them but be reassuring - e.g. "Further details would be needed to confirm this position, but at this stage...".

Check for clarity and tone at the end

Before your time runs out, take a moment to review your email. I always found it helpful to read it aloud (if possible) or follow along with my finger - this helps you catch sentences that are too long, unclear, or sound abrupt. Look for opportunities to simplify, and if a sentence takes more than one breath to read, it's probably too long! Make sure your sign-off fits the context (things such as "Kind regards" or "Best wishes" usually work best). The graduate recruitment team / assessors will be looking for professionalism in formatting and presentation - consistent spacing, clear paragraphing, and correct spelling and grammar will all make a strong impression.

As a practical tip to practice: You could start by taking short case studies and draft sample emails that summarise your advice in 200-300 words. This helps you get used to organising your thoughts quickly and writing in a professional, accessible way.

I hope that helps!

Hello!

First of all, huge congratulations on being invited to the PwC virtual AC - that's an amazing achievement! Whilst I'm not too sure on the specifics of PwC's AC, I can share some general advice when it comes to preparing for a virtual assessment centre, as I completed a few last cycle. I have also quoted some of my previous posts below that discuss other assessment types that might be useful, as I wasn't too sure what is involved in the PwC AC.

Some general tips:

• Prepare the basics: you may have already been doing this, but make sure you understand PwC's values, business areas, and the current market issues that will affect them. You don't need to know absolutely everything (so try not to panic!), but it's good to have an awareness of what PwC does so that you can link this to why you are interested
• For group exercises: usually, the focus of the group exercise isn't actually what you say - it is how you interact and communicate with the others around you. Focus on being collaborative rather than trying to dominate the conversation - I always tried to be neither the quietest nor the loudest (which can be a tricky balance!). I found this particularly challenging for virtual ACs where it can be difficult to get the timing right, but try to listen actively and build on others' ideas. When you do present your part of the group exercise, make sure to clearly explain your reasoning and thought process!
• For interviews: if you are asked competency questions, it's always helpful to have the STAR structure in the back of your mind, and have a few examples ready that show teamwork, problem-solving, and resilience. As part of my preparation for assessment centres, I used to spend an hour or so just noting down all my experiences and what skills / competencies came out of each. This means you aren't desperately racking your brain for examples in the moment!
• Virtual elements: it sounds silly, but make sure that you test your technology beforehand (i.e. WiFi, camera, microphone) and choose a quiet space - I even made sure to let all of my housemates know so that none of them disturbed me. I would make sure that you have water and a notebook nearby, as you never know when you might need to jot something down.

Most importantly, be yourself! Focus on showing how you think and work with others when you are performing at your best, rather than trying to be "perfect" overall. Firms are often looking for potential, not perfection!

Everyone is nervous going into ACs, so you're definitely not alone! You've earned your place there by excelling in the process so far - so just go into it and try your best Wishing you the best of luck, you've got this!

Hey!

Congratulations on receiving the AC invite!! I've collated some general advice from a few of my previous forum posts which will hopefully offer some guidance - just shout if you have any follow-up questions.

Motivational Interview

When preparing for the motivational interview, I'd encourage you to have a think about the following beforehand:

• Be clear on why a US firm (e.g. lean teams, responsibility early on, client exposure, etc.)
• Then narrow it down to why this US firm - practice strengths, the type of deals that they work on, the office culture, and any recent matters that interested you
• Expect follow-up questions that test the depth of your knowledge on the firm / work (e.g. why corporation litigation vs disputes, why the London office, etc.)
• Be prepared to back up your motivations with examples from your past experiences - for example, if you discuss wanting to have a lot of responsibility early on, you can strengthen your answer by discussing a past experience where you found that you enjoyed this aspect.

Overall, I'd try to create a narrative that links your interests to the firm and its work, as well as your long-term career goals.


Written Exercise

• Practice timed writing - pick a 30-45 minute slot, read a short business or news article, and summarise the key points in a structured 1-2 page memo with a clear conclusion summarising your findings.
• Work on prioritisation - pick an article with a lot of information, and practice picking out the 3-4 most important issues rather than trying to summarise and include everything.
• Use a clear structure - this was the main thing that I implemented that helped me score higher on written assessments! Follow a clear structure in your answer, and practice what this would be for each type of document.
• Check clarity - after writing (potentially one of the above), ask yourself if someone with no context to the facts could follow along with the information and your reasoning.
• Proofread under pressure - I would get used to quickly checking grammar and flow, as this is really important in a written exercise! I sometimes struggled with this, as the pressure made me skip parts of my writing, but I found that literally following along with a pen or your finger can make sure you don't miss anything.
• Review sample case studies - I would have a look online and see if there are any free resources that you can have a go at. A true lifesaver during my last cycle was this forum post by Jacob Miller, and I would definitely give it a read!

The main thing that assisted me in written exercises is following a clear structure! I would go through and read all of the materials first, and then go back to pick out the key details. You should be looking for key issues, areas that you will require more information, and anything that you think is important for the client to know.

I would then follow a clear structure in your answer. There are a few different types of documents that they could test you on - e.g. an email, memo, report, note, etc. I would have a look beforehand at the formatting of each, and have a go at writing them! If you are writing a letter / email to a client, make sure that you aren't including technical terms and writing in way that is easy for them to understand.

I would also try and find ways to showcase that you have the skills that they are looking for in trainees. For example, in one of my previous ACs I was asked to write an email to a supervisor. In this email, I outlined my arguments and recommendation, but I ended it by offering to draft the email / document for the client (e.g. proactivity). This will be dependant on each exercise, but if you can incorporate this in some way, I think it's a great way of standing out!

I've also previously created a post on client emails as a written exercise format - I have linked that here as well!


Group Exercise

• In the group exercise, they are typically looking at how you work with others, not just what you contribute. Be collaborative, listen actively, and build on other people's points.
• Aim to contribute regularly but avoid dominating - asking others for their views on a topic can show leadership without being overbearing. I would always aim to not be the loudest or the quietest in the room, although I know finding this balance can be quite tricky!
• Keep the group focused on the task! I would always try and keep track of your progress and summarise the key decisions made as you go along.
• If you have to select an idea, don't worry if yours isn't chosen. What matters is how you respond and whether you support the group's direction.

I hope that helps - wishing you the best of luck with the AC, and I'm sure you'll do great!!

Hey!

Whilst I haven't completed a negotiation exercise at an AC before, I did complete one when I competed in BIUCAC and during my vacation scheme at Travers Smith, so I'm happy to share how I prepared for these!

I remember finding negotiation exercises really intimidating, but they feel slightly easier and less nerve-wracking once you are actually in it. The key thing to remember is that negotiations are much more about how you approach the discussion, rather than 'winning' or forcing the best deal. You should be looking to display traits such as collaboration, commercial awareness, and clear communication - definitely try to avoid things like aggression and stubbornness (which was slightly challenging for me as a naturally stubborn person haha ).

It is difficult to prepare for a negotiation exercise in advance of an AC, as it will depend a lot on the fact pattern itself. In terms of preparation on the day, make sure that you know your brief inside out. It is important to be really clear on your client's priorities, and break the factors down into:

1. What is essential for your client
2. What you are willing to negotiate (i.e. there is some leeway)
3. Areas that you are willing to compromise

It helps to have a think in advance about any potential trade-offs, so that you are not just saying yes or no but can suggest alternatives or offers to the other side that move the discussion forward.

During the exercise itself, focus on listening just as much as speaking. I would try to ask questions, acknowledge the other side's points, and explain your reasoning calmly. A good negotiation should feel constructive rather than adversarial, so make sure to keep the tone professional and solution-focused. If any new information comes up that wasn't included in your facts, show that you can adapt rather than sticking rigidly to what you prepared in advance - this is why it is important to have some areas you are willing to negotiate and compromise on.

Additionally, if it is a team negotiation, I found it really helpful to summarise the points that had been agreed as we went along. This helped for time management, as you want to ensure that you aren't staying stuck on one point for too long. If the negotiation has been stuck for a while, it might make sense to suggest that you move on to the next issue, and come back to the earlier point towards at the end.

One thing that I picked up on after speaking to the assessors at the negotiations I have taken part in is the importance of being realistic with your demands. For example, if your client is aiming for £100,000 for a company, it makes sense to open slightly higher to leave room for negotiate, but you should avoid going wildly overboard (e.g. suggesting £1,000,000). An unrealistic opening position can undermine your credibility and make it harder to build a constructive dialogue. A sensible and well-reasoned starting point shows commercial awareness and helps keep the negotiation collaborative overall.

If you have time to practise, you could have a go at doing a mock negotiation with a friend - even just getting comfortable structuring your points and responding under a bit of pressure can be really helpful. I'd also recommend that you familiarise yourself with concepts such as warranties, indemnities, etc. before the AC (if you haven't already), as these are things that are likely to be negotiated.

Overall, as long as you stay calm and continually aim to work towards a solution with the other side, you will be doing exactly what the graduate recruitment team want to see - even if you don't end up with the 'best' deal.

Best of luck!!

Hello!

Congratulations on the AC invite!!

The main resource that I used when preparing for a case study interview was this guide by Jacob Miller - I would definitely take a look! There is also a guide to Private Equity that is useful for understanding how a PE transaction is structured -you can find that here.

I have also quoted some more general posts I have made in relation to approaching case study exercises, so hopefully they are helpful too.

Best of luck!!

Hi!

I am doing well, thank you - hope you are too! Congratulations on the AC invite, that is amazing news!!

I haven't actually completed an in-tray exercise before either, but I've had a look online and I'll share how I would personally approach this sort of exercise!

For an in-tray exercise, the firm is essentially testing how you manage a busy inbox as a trainee - therefore, things like prioritisation, attention to detail, commercial awareness, and communication will all be key traits that you'll want to display.

In terms of preparation, I would try to practise by quickly reading and extracting key information from documents or emails, and then making decisions based on that. You don't necessarily need legal knowledge, but I do think it is important to be comfortable identifying what is urgent vs important, spotting risks, and thinking about logical next steps.

On the day, my approach would be to:

• Read everything once through fairly quickly to get the overall picture
• Then go back and prioritise tasks accordingly (for example, urgent / time-sensitive / client-facing first)
• Be clear and structured in any responses - even things like bullet points could work if they are concise and logical
• Always explain the reasoning briefly if the format of the assessment allows it (e.g. why something is prioritised or why a risk has been flagged).

I would also keep an eye out for small details, such as deadlines, attachments, or any inconsistencies - firms might use these to test your accuracy and attention to detail.

Ultimately, I think it is important to try not to overthink it, as they'll be looking for a sensible and structured approach, rather than perfection.

Good luck - I'm sure you'll smash it!!

 

[TCComingSoon]

Hey!

Welcome back! Thank you for sharing this so openly, and I'm sorry to hear that this cycle has ended this way for you. I'm the first in my family to go to university, and I went to a non-Russell Group university too, so I completely understand how disheartening it can be when it feels like you get so close at the AC stage after making it past the first few rounds.

Submitting 30 applications and making it to multiple video interviews and assessment centres is no easy feat and shows that you had a strong cycle overall, even if the end result doesn't feel like it. It shows that your applications are working to a point and you are clearly competitive enough to get through those early stages.

I'd definitely avoid viewing it as a "0 offers = no progress" situation - like you've said, you will have developed a lot of this cycle and built lots of experience. The jump from getting interviews/ACs to converting them is often the hardest part, but very learnable and coachable and this was definitely the bit I struggled with last cycle too!

In terms of next steps, I'd probably try not to see this as a reset to zero situation! You've now got a much clearer idea of which stages are tripping you up most, which is incredibly useful for targeted improvement next cycle. It might be worth getting very specific feedback where possible and then focusing your prep around those areas, rather than just broadly reapplying in the same way again. I'd also give yourself some space from it if you can - these application cycles can be really draining, and stepping back briefly can help you come back more motivated next time.

Wishing you the best of luck, and let us know if we can help at all!

Hi Abbie thank you for this response and this advice it is really helpful and love your detailed responses they are so insightful. I know others who are in similar situation to me on the forum will benefit from this advice also.

 

[TCComingSoon]

Hi, I am planning to apply to Watson Farley Williams, but I am wondering where should I disclose my mitigating circumstances. There is one box that says I can add extra information on my undergrad degree, and one other that asks if I ever had to resit, the reason and outcome. Which one would be more appropriate?

I found this annoying also. I put my MC in education section under additional info in each uni space. Hope that is helpful.

 

[livelaughlawve]

Does anyone know how white & case processes application post app+sjt? Do they review the application or is it purely based on test scores? Thanks.

Its app and SJT reviewed together, from then on each component is evaluated individually

 

[Gregglt]

I did the SJT and VI for Reed Smith last Saturday. I still haven’t received the application questions. Should I assume PFO? I think I tanked the VI

 

[Garak]

I have an AC coming up in Bevan Brittan and one of the questions in past interviews has been: "why do you want to apply for the London office?".

The only other offices they have are in Bristol, Birmingham and Leeds.

There's a video on TCLA addressing how to answer "Why do you want to train in London?" but I'm still not sure how to tackle it or how much of the answer in that video would apply.

 

[bristol rovers]

Stephenson Harwood rejection post app

 

[juanitasimi]

SH pfo lmaooo

 

[MZJxLadha]

SH pfo!

 

[Garak]

SH pfo!

Dumb question but what does pfo mean?