TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[alexandradaarcy]

There should be one, I got mine immediately. Did you see the final video of the test?

Oh okay how weird. Yes I saw the final video and I got an email confirmation of the assessment...

 

[livelaughlawve]

omggggg if I didn't receive the VI for W&C am I cooked? if you received it how many application questions did you answer? I answered them all and used the max word count idk what much more I could have done, plus I've passed SJTs at other (also v competitive) firms (((

They might send them out in batches, don't count yourself out too early

 

[WeGotThis!]

omggggg if I didn't receive the VI for W&C am I cooked? if you received it how many application questions did you answer? I answered them all and used the max word count idk what much more I could have done, plus I've passed SJTs at other (also v competitive) firms (((

When I applied for the Winter VS, they had sent out 3 batches for the VI. So don't worry, good luck!

 

[tiredexhausted]

My updates for 2025-26 (my second cycle applying)

- 48 applications​

- 13 progressed (11 post VI rejections; 2 missed VI deadlines)​

- 10 haven't heard back​

- 25 rejections​

- 1 virtual interview (yet to give - please pray for my sanity)​

The sunk-cost fallacy is so high. I have 6 more firms shortlisted, but should I lowkey just give up?

 

[floral.tcla]

They might send them out in batches, don't count yourself out too early

When I applied for the Winter VS, they had sent out 3 batches for the VI. So don't worry, good luck!

ah I hadn't considered those but you're so right, ty!

 

[Matt Murdock]

BCLP SJT invite!

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

BCLP SJT test invite. Sent my app 2 days ago!​

 

[RS Sanjanaa]

Any idea when we’ll hear back on Baker SJT?

 

[siilvert0ngue]

just completed W&C VI... head is still spinning from the long questions + 5 second prep time

 

[TCapplicant1005]

Has anyone heard from Orrick or Wedlake Bell post application submission?

 

[summersun]

Has anyone heard from Orrick or Wedlake Bell post application submission?

I have not heard back from Wedlake yet (did not apply to Orrick)

 

[WeGotThis!]

Has anyone heard from Orrick or Wedlake Bell post application submission?

Wedlake Bell website states that their interviews are scheduled for July 2026

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hey guys,

Do you know cases where some firms open their DTC apps again? Should I expect a few more firms to open TC route if they cannot fill all their designed spots? With Reed Smith, today I've also seen Travers Smith is hiring for March 2027 start. I remember contacting Eversheds before and they told me to be on the lookout for London office in case there are empty spots.

 

[WeGotThis!]

Is there a specific format to follow for training Contract CVs or does the general CV work?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Is there a specific format to follow for training Contract CVs or does the general CV work?

Hey!

Generally speaking, a standard professional CV format is absolutely fine for training contract applications unless the firm specifies otherwise. I would focus more on keeping it clear, well-structured, and easy to scan for information rather than trying to follow a separate format

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

Has anyone heard from SH post app yet? It’s now day 69 post app and day 51 since deadline…

Also has anyone heard from Bakers post SJT or knows when they are likely to send VIs/PFOs…​

 

[WeGotThis!]

Hey!

Generally speaking, a standard professional CV format is absolutely fine for training contract applications unless the firm specifies otherwise. I would focus more on keeping it clear, well-structured, and easy to scan for information rather than trying to follow a separate format

Thank you very much Abbie!

 

[amb303]

Has anyone heard from Orrick or Wedlake Bell post application submission?

Haven’t heard from Wedlake Bell yet and didn’t apply to Orrick—saw people on last year’s forum hearing from Wedlake Bell in mid-late June for first round interviews

 

[DesperateStudent]

Are you guys going to ask about Stephenson Harwood updates every day? I’m sure once there’s an update someone will post or better you’ll get communication directly from them.They conduct 3 vacation schemes from the research I just did that’s a lot.

It’s a little tiring to see it everyday especially now that I have an account and I get a notification sign with updates. Xx

 

[spamelinazoid]

for those who did the bakers test, was it untimed?