No. Not surprised though, I had never interviewed at an English law firm before so it was challenging.Did you get an offer?
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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26
- Thread starter Ram Sabaratnam
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Hi, I just wanted to check if these two motivational questions are completely different, "why do you want to be a commercial lawyer" and "why do you you want to be a commercial lawyer at x firm". I am just confused as to how different these questions are? I understand that one has to be majorly about my personal experience and motivation and the other requires research into the firm as to why specifically at x firm but how much should I focus on the motivational aspect of being a commercial lawyer and how much should I focus on the firm itself? or is it that I should just focus on the firm and not mention why I want to be a lawyer . hope this makes sense
Guys can anyone confirm if we need to put every grade individually in the Gowling WLG application? It’s not clear to me.
Hi,
I was going to apply for the A&O Shearman training contract. The deadline is today at 5pm. However, I just read that they have mentioned on their website that the application form as well as the online experience i.e the SJT test, needs to be completed before the deadline.
Is there any point in applying right now? For those who have done this, do we automatically receive the online test and how long does it actually take to complete it?
Would be grateful if someone could let me know this as soon as possible!
I was going to apply for the A&O Shearman training contract. The deadline is today at 5pm. However, I just read that they have mentioned on their website that the application form as well as the online experience i.e the SJT test, needs to be completed before the deadline.
Is there any point in applying right now? For those who have done this, do we automatically receive the online test and how long does it actually take to complete it?
Would be grateful if someone could let me know this as soon as possible!
Hi, for reference, I received the test automatically, but the test took approximately one hour to do, the app form is very short, one hour also ( if you do have completed work experience with you to copy & paste), but I do suggest if you really want to apply, do it ASAP, to avoid any technical disruption.
Okay thank you so much! I will start filling the form. Does the online test have VI questions as well?
Has anyone received a pfo or interview invite from Slaughters recently
Thank you!
I have just submitted my application. Fingers crossed, I receive the test soon!
Freshfields PFO, kinda expected it 
Hey!
They are different questions, but they should complement each other rather than repeat the same points.
"Why commercial law?" is mainly about your personal motivations - such as what aspects of the work appeal to you, what experiences shaped your interest, and what strengths you bring to that type of work. This could cover things like enjoying problem-solving, being interested in how businesses operate, or liking complex transactions. This question does not need to have firm-specific detail.
"Why commercial law at X firm?" shifts the focus of your answer to the firm specifically (i.e. its work, clients, culture, training style, international reach, etc.) and how those things match what you are looking for in your training and career. You can reference your motivations and connect them to what the firm offers, but the bulk of your answer should show that you have researched the firm and understand what makes it distinct - and why that makes it the right fit for you. Essentially: "Given my motivations and interests, this is the firm that fits"
A simple way to break it down could be:
1. First Question: why this career suits you
2. Second Question: why this firm is the right place for you to do it
The two answers should link, but they should focus on different parts
I hope that assists!
2028. You should look at their website where it states the 2027 TC begins in March...can anyone help, im a current pgdl student and will sit sqe1 in jan 2027, do i apply for a&o's 2027 or 2028 training contract? I've emailed but had no reply
More... I applied in early October and am still waiting for an outcome, just like many others... Also, some people on this forum said they waited around 7 weeks
I just completed my online assessment. Managed to do everything before the deadline. Thank you so much to all those who replied to me this morning and gave me insights!
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