TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[aspiringtcholder]

Welcome to the forum! Imposter syndrome is completely normal - but I can assure you that the firms recruiting graduates do not expect you to have done an abundance of work experience (my TC offer following a VS was the first corporate law work experience I had ever done, I also had only mini pupillages) - but remember that there's so many virtual internships through Forage that you can do which will help your applications. It is also okay to make mistakes - the application process is daunting and video interviews are very difficult. Keep practising and you will only get better!

That is so reassuring thank you! And well done on your TC offer! I’m definitely being patient with myself because I have a decent job so I’m not in a rush to secure a TC this year lol, it would be great but I don’t want to burn out while I’m working!

 

[georgianprincessmwuah]

Hi! Does anyone have any insights into Hogan Lovells Video Interview? Nature of questions, structure e.t.c. Thank you!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

hi all! can someone guide me to the updated deadlines dashboard on TCLA for DTCs this year? having trouble finding the updated list @Abbie Whitlock

Hi!

You can find the most updated list here - it was last updated earlier this week, but unfortunately some firms haven't posted their dates yet so a few are still TBC!

 

[hmevey]

HL PFO, losing faith giving up

 

[aspiringtcholder]

HL PFO, losing faith giving up

I’m so sorry to hear that, but you’re more than one firm which I know may be difficult to believe right now.

Do you mind me asking if this was post-stage 1 or post-stage 2 of the online assessments?

 

[hmevey]

I’m so sorry to hear that, but you’re more than one firm which I know may be difficult to believe right now.

Do you mind me asking if this was post-stage 1 or post-stage 2 of the online assessments?

Thank you <3 and it was post stage 1. i did the test last friday xx

 

[silonthesofa]

Thank you <3 and it was post stage 1. i did the test last friday xx

Same. Oh well.

 

[hmevey]

Same. Oh well.

oh well indeed. what can we do! hoping one day i can come on here with more positive news, would be nice

 

[aspiringtcholder]

Thank you <3 and it was post stage 1. i did the test last friday xx

If it also makes a difference, I’ve read somewhere that they don’t properly read applications before sending out the online tests. That to me shows it’s literally not personal at all! This decision was based on a single test which I do find really wild