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Any TC offer is going to have terms related to passing the SQE. It maybe that the firm allows resits and factors that into your start date, by either allowing you to start without having passed the exams or deferring your start date. Some TC offers will be contingent on passing first time though. If you are concerned about this though, then only apply in the next recruitment cycle.

As I stressed earlier, no matter what your level of experience, I would generally recommend making a mixture of VS and direct TC applications, especially while you are studying. It is only if candidates are restricted in their ability to work (e.g. visa restrictions, you are working full time, have major commitments like caring responsibilities) that a TC route would be the better option.

I think the most important aspect when applying to roles is applying to opportunities you are truly interested in. You are applying for roles that do not require experience in particular areas of law. There aren't really a lot of firms that do criminal work and corporate/commercial law (unless its white collar crime). If your interest is in commercial law, it would be best to apply to firms with that focus rather than applying to firms with strong criminal law practices. If you apply to the latter because that is where your experience is you are more likely to end up in this area of law rather than commercial work. What is your previous experience in and what type of law are you aiming for? This might be helpful in me guiding you further.