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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

hello I’m new here
I’m an international candidate & wanted to ask is it too late to apply for DTC. Especially for shoosmiths, bakers & SH.. I wanna apply to the next cycle but now I’m thinking I should’ve applied to these in this cycle. I feel like I’m not prepared enough
 
Advice needed! I have been fortunate enough to receive a direct TC offer from a firm, with only 1 week to accept the offer. I have another vacation scheme coming up next month with my dream firm. I really want to try my luck with my dream firm, but also don't want to turn down a guaranteed TC at the other firm (I have asked and they are unwilling to extend the offer deadline). Any advice on how to proceed?
 
Do we think it's useful or actively unhelpful to email grad rec for firms you haven't heard from for months? It's been 5 months for Withers...
I would only email if you have other offers that you need to make decisions on soon. Firms tend to only expedite the process when they know they run the risk of losing a good candidate. If you're just curious I wouldn't reach out as they are processing applications anyways and likely will not see a reason to expedite yours and you will just get the basic "please be patient as we review applications" email.
 
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