TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Baker McKenzie VI invite, finally!!!

SJT 6676, high verbal - sat Friday last week.

Hi everyone! I received an invitation to complete the BM video interview today with a deadline of 27/05, but I’ve since received another email saying I’ve been granted extra time (even though I didn’t request any), and the deadline has now changed to 26/05. Just wondering if anyone else has encountered this!

Yep! Got the same. Ill assume the earlier deadline
Well done all on the VI invite!

May I ask if you took the SJT the same day you got it or the deadline day?

I ask as I doubt they’d do staggered invites over BH weekend although they did stagger the test invite that was earlier in the week. Also the deadline being the day after BH is unfair given the suns out🥹
 
Well done all on the VI invite!

May I ask if you took the SJT the same day you got it or the deadline day?

I ask as I doubt they’d do staggered invites over BH weekend although they did stagger the test invite that was earlier in the week. Also the deadline being the day after BH is unfair given the suns out🥹
I completed it on my deadline day which was Friday, so i had absolutely no time to prepare it over the weekend since they allowed only 3 days to complete. I felt similar to you for White & Case VI since some people got full weekend to prep and deadline on Monday evening, but I had only Saturday to prep as I had work commitment too on Thursday and Friday.
White & Case VI invite with associate + HR!!! (Post TI) so shocked I’ve made it this far 🥹
Amazing, keep the good work and update here until the offer land on your inbox, so I can stop being hopeful and move on.
 
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I completed it on my deadline day which was Friday, so i had absolutely no time to prepare it over the weekend since they allowed only 3 days to complete. I felt similar to you for White & Case VI since some people got full weekend to prep and deadline on Monday evening, but I had only Saturday to prep as I had work commitment too on Thursday and Friday.

Amazing, keep the good work and update here until the offer land on your inbox, so I can stop being hopeful and move on.
Surely it’s done in batches, I would still hold out hope if I were you!! But yes, I will keep everyone updated; I find updates from others very helpful so I’ll do the same!
 
Hey!

I think this is one of those questions where they are mainly testing whether your reasoning is thoughtful and tailored, rather than whether you have a "perfect" reason for London specifically.

I would focus less on generic "London is exciting/fast-paced" points and more on what the London office means in the context of the firm itself. For example, you could mention that:
  • The London office gives exposure to a broader range of national clients and large-scale matters
  • Many of the firm's key sectors have strong links to London-based institutions
  • You are interested in being at the centre of client interaction and collaboration across offices
  • London aligns with your long-term career ambitions and where you see yourself building your professional network

I would also make sure to avoid sounding as though the regional offices are "lesser" options! Bevan Brittan is really strong outside of London, so it is better to frame it as why London suits you personally and professionally, rather than why the other offices do not.

I hope that assists! :)
thank you, Abbie!
 
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