• 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 →

Implication of A-Levels & Uni rank?

L3

New Member
Aug 25, 2024
2
0
Hi, I could do with some advice...

I achieved BCC (mitigating circumstances - parental death) in my A levels and attend a lower-middle ranked university. I averaged a first class in 2nd year and believe I will graduate with a first. My degree has an integrated placement year & I'm doing an internship with a large national firm in which I was selected out of a competitive 200 applicants. I also have law clinic volunteering experience.

However, being honest, am I likely to struggle when getting a training contract due to my mediocre A levels and university's rank? I'm aiming for firms like DLA Piper, Gowling etc. I suffered parental loss (via traumatic circumstances) & poor mental health as a result during my A levels - and I will add this as mitigating circumstances to my application, however are they really likely to consider me regardless of this?

Thank you for reading & I look forward to your input.
 
No - you won’t struggle.

You mitigating circumstances are severe and will be taken into account by any firm worthwhile applying to.

Your subsequent grades and ability to secure a competitive placement year are going to be a much stronger indication of your potential too.
 
No - you won’t struggle.

You mitigating circumstances are severe and will be taken into account by any firm worthwhile applying to.

Your subsequent grades and ability to secure a competitive placement year are going to be a much stronger indication of your potential too.
Hi,

Thanks a lot for this response - this is great to hear :)
 

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.