TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[DavidJC]

I've been considering possibly applying to additional firms if I have time later in the cycle and the deadlines are a little later. Does anyone know if BCLP have removed their sector-focussed TCs (RE and Financial Services)?

 

[AMullin]

WOOHOO can't wait to fail it ! (but srsly, good luck!! - i have faith)

Thanks, and you too!

 

[cos]

does anybody have the whatsapp invitation for TC applications 25-26?

 

[Scottishlion]

Any news on Freshfields yet?

 

[yk1906]

Is it normal if I haven't received any tests for Mayer Brown DTC? I applied ages ago

 

[Sharkfin]

Can CMS just reject me atp, im losing my mind waiting for a potential AC inv

 

[manifestingthetc]

Is it normal if I haven't received any tests for Mayer Brown DTC? I applied ages ago

i emailed grad rec about this last week and said they will not review or send tests until after the deadline in march lol

 

[yk1906]

i emailed grad rec about this last week and said they will not review or send tests until after the deadline in march lol

Maaaaaan why did I think it was rolling omg. Thanks though

 

[Amgrad]

Hahahq I met them at Legal Cheek weeks ago and I knew they aren't rolling. Most TC app isn't rolling especially those which will be closed in 2026, so that's why I haven't applied yet.

Maaaaaan why did I think it was rolling omg. Thanks though

 

[LegallyStressedOut]

Did anyone hear from cc post vi today

 

[p2bv]

Can CMS just reject me atp, im losing my mind waiting for a potential AC inv

They've said online they won't be holding AC's until January, I dont think we'll hear until after Christmas tbh

 

[JBM]

I am confused. Have FF AC DTC invites gone out or not yet?

 

[yk1906]

I am confused. Have FF AC DTC invites gone out or not yet?

Someone here talked to grad team and they said they'll send them out this week

 

[Lexie Ni]

Did anyone hear from cc post vi today

Not yet. Still waiting

 

[Scottishlion]

Does anyone know if A&O or other firms will reopen applications in spring? Since DTC was for March start dates will they have an opening for September and if so can you apply again within an academic year?

 

[Trophy]

Does anyone know if A&O or other firms will reopen applications in spring? Since DTC was for March start dates will they have an opening for September and if so can you apply again within an academic year?

No A&O will not open again until August next year for the next recruitment cycle. Unless no one accepts the TC offers which is unlikely given I’ve seen 10+ offers on LinkedIn posted yesterday.

Slaughter and May open again in June and if you were rejected this autumn you can reapply again in the summer window.

 

[Somefriendlyadvice]

CMS VI invite!! If anyone has any insights on the best way to prepare, I would be very grateful. Thank you!

Hey

I would say the best piece of advice for VI's generally is to speak clearly, and not to speak too fast. Graduate recruitment knows you will be nervous, and that is ok! I would say the best VI's are delivered in a composed, and thought through manner. In terms of CMS specifically, I would say their scale and sheer number of offices are worth mentioning, but make sure you substantiate this with the numbers!

Here is a link to what CMS have put out, it will be helpful for you to take a look over!

Hints & tips · CMS Emerging Talent

cmsemergingtalent.com

I hope this helps, and if you have any more questions, feel free to reply to this message!

 

[badmintonflyinginsect]

bit demoralised after skadden pfo and now doubting my app writing skills generally :/

 

[Bottega_Veneta]

bit demoralised after skadden pfo and now doubting my app writing skills generally :/

Same I genuinely no longer know what to do

 

[Deleted member 29181]

Does anyone know when applicants to A&O Shearman direct TC will hear back after the AC? I am Impatiently waiting haha.