Chances at a training contract

[ergonomic]

Hi,

I am currently finishing my second year of a non-law degree at Oxbridge. However, for my first year exams I got 60, 56 and 55 in my papers (there were some extenuating circumstances).

Do I still have a shot at the good law firms?

Thanks and kind regards

 

[Username9999]

Short answer is yes. Did a law degree at LSE and in my first year got two 2.2s and two low 2.1s. Did not provide any extenuating circumstances and still was able to interview at the vast majority of firms and receive offers from US and UK firms.

I have heard a fair few rumours regarding some firms automatically rejecting applications below certain averages but these are just rumours.

In terms of applications, since you are non-law, try and focus on second year grades as the majority of vacation scheme and direct TC applications will be made in your third year as a non-law.

 

[Jessica Booker]

Particularly if there were extentuating circumstances, then yes.

You will need to explain the circumstances in applications and you may also want to line up a good written reference from your colleague if you can, especially if they knew about the circumstances and can vouch for your true potential.

Even if you do not have formal assessments this year, you should aim to do well in any informal grades so you can reference them as evidence of your true abilities. You may also find you have more success you have have your final degree result. Not everything needs to be determined by what you do in the next 9-15 months. If this is what you truly want to aim for, playing the long-game and setting expectations over the next 12-24 months is likely to be a healthier approach, especially if you need to wait for more constituent evidence of your academic abilities.