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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

elle woods

Star Member
  • Dec 4, 2025
    36
    63
    A&O PFO this morning - Never even got an email saying my application was under review 😢 - see if you don't get a TC what do you actually do after uni?
    Lots of my graduate friends are currently in paralegal roles while also still applying for things - I've heard that extra legal experience can help in obtaining a TC. But hopefully you will get something soon! Best of luck !! It's truly brutal out here..
     
    • 🤝
    Reactions: tcappps123

    Trophy

    Esteemed Member
    Oct 29, 2025
    89
    150
    A&O PFO this morning - Never even got an email saying my application was under review 😢 - see if you don't get a TC what do you actually do after uni?
    Get a job. Not having a tc whilst in uni is not the end of the world. Jobs outside of law exist and can provide great value in transferable skills. There’s not enough TCs for everyone to get one before graduation anyway.
     

    BM99

    Legendary Member
    Premium Member
    Sep 12, 2021
    674
    1,045
    I haven’t received an e-mail from CC yet post application and WG, but when i check on the app portal it says “archived” so should I assume pfo?
    You might be in a on hold position. CC tends to put people on hold in previous years if they think you have a strong application. If someone fails their VI/AC, you might get the chance.
     

    shadowboxer909

    Star Member
    Oct 20, 2025
    28
    31
    With the SQE route, you can get SQE by being a Paralegal too to be fair, so don't worry so much.
    There are other routes to becoming a lawyer as well in a worst case scenario.

    Bakers likes to hire accountants as tax associates so you can potentially go from accounting to tax law. It would however mean specialising in tax and it isn't guaranteed either.

     

    BM99

    Legendary Member
    Premium Member
    Sep 12, 2021
    674
    1,045
    There are other routes to becoming a lawyer as well in a worst case scenario.

    Bakers likes to hire accountants as tax associates so you can potentially go from accounting to tax law. It would however mean specialising in tax and it isn't guaranteed either.

    As a Big Four tax associate, I would strongly advise caution when considering this route. The chartered accountant/tax adviser exams are definitely not easy!
     

    shadowboxer909

    Star Member
    Oct 20, 2025
    28
    31
    Simple answer: Yes. Goal is to get a TC.
    Stupid question then but if you're a tax associate, wouldn't it be easier to apply for tax law roles directly? I assume most non-TC roles don't require the huge level of effort and assessment centres that are required from TC applications.

    And then potentially you could move to another area of law once you qualify.
     

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