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TCLA Direct Training Contract Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

I’ve recently received an interview for a DTC at an MC firm, but I’ve found out that they have a policy of not interviewing candidates who are already holding a TC with another firm.

I’m currently holding a TC with an international firm. It’s a decent firm, and as an international student, having a TC as a backup is valuable to me. At the same time, I’m seriously considering moving firms and would like to keep my options open.

I’m therefore trying to understand how common this policy is across MC and SC firms. Is it generally the case that holding a TC elsewhere will prevent you from being considered for other firms, or is this more of an individual firm policy?

If it’s common across the market, I’d need to think seriously about whether keeping my current TC is limiting my future options. If this firm is an outlier, I’d probably keep my TC and accept that I may have to pass on this particular interview.

Has anyone been in a similar position or knows how other MC/SC firms approach candidates who already hold a TC? I’d also really appreciate any advice on whether it would be sensible to give up a secure TC in this situation.
 

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