Guidance for Indian Student Seeking UK Training Contract/Vac Scheme

Hi everyone,

I’m an Indian law student, and my course structure is a bit different from the National Law Universities (NLUs). Despite that, I’ve completed a few strong internships and have worked as a paralegal with small international firms.

I’m now hoping to apply for training contracts and vacation schemes, but despite my research, I haven’t been able to find clear guidance or resources.

I’d really appreciate help from this community on how to explore international opportunities, specifically:

• How can I apply for training contracts and vacation schemes as an Indian student?
• Which firms are open to considering applicants from India or with non-traditional academic routes?

Any advice, experiences, or resources would be extremely helpful. Thank you so much in advance!

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi,

I’ve just seen that you’re a new member - huge welcome to TCLA! We’re so thrilled to have you here

You can absolutely get a TC as an intl student - I am one myself!

The type of law you studied being different to UK LLB degrees doesn’t really matter. Firms will just likely make you do the PGDL before the SQE. Your other internships and paralegal roles also place you at a good stance to craft better reasons for why commercial law and why X firm, when answering app questions and completing cover letters.

Applying for vacation schemes in your case will be difficult, as most law firms do not sponsor visas for vacation schemes. So unless you have permission to work in the UK, are on a graduate visa, or you’re an intl student (and the dates of the VS fall outside your term-time), then taking part in a VS will not be possible.

The best thing is to apply for direct TCs. Though firms may not have as many places for these, please do not be deterred, as I have very many friends that have succeeded in this way. Your application strategy just has to be on point. Your research needs to be clear and evidently shown on the form (just as it should be for a VS application anyway).

This thread should also help more - https://www.thecorporatelawacademy....eme-vs-direct-tc-applications-2024-2025.9147/

I do know that Sidley Austin sponsors visas for VS, so worth applying!

Once again, welcome to TCLA…!!! Let us know if you’ve got any questions at all.