TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[andrecsaa]

I just attended a two-hour event with Macfarlanes, only to discover I can't apply to them EVER again!

So, I had an AC for the direct training contract last year and was planning to reapply this cycle. I understood that reapplying in the same cycle wasn't allowed, but I didn't realise it meant I couldn't ever apply again. Grad rec said that if you've been unsuccessful at the vacation scheme assessment centre, you could still apply for the direct training contract. When I asked about my situation, having been to the direct training contract assessment centre, they said I couldn't apply again. Does this mean I'm also ineligible to apply for the vacation scheme? I'm really confused 😭

I read that some firms have this policy. Didn’t know Macfarlanes was one of them. I would apply for the VS, but now I will stick with the direct TC.

It is very unfair since you may have performed well but might have been rejected because the VS was full.

 

[futuretrainee101ac]

I heard back today

What was your feedback report strengths and weakness if you don't mind sharing

 

[Tintin06]

I read that some firms have this policy. Didn’t know Macfarlanes was one of them. I would apply for the VS, but now I will stick with the direct TC.

It is very unfair since you may have performed well but might have been rejected because the VS was full.

It's a tough situation but understandable. Try to see graduate recruitment's perspective. It whittles down their workload somewhat. They are a very popular law firm. Also, their AC doesn't change much. That's anecdotal based on my experience. I've not got their AC however. Rejection is redirection in this case.

 

[lala_17]

out of interest what other firms have this policy (that you can't reapply after having been rejected)?

 

[Kk288]

Hii, I am currently writing an application for MoFo but have noticed they don't have a word limit. what kind of word count is recommended in this situation?

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hii, I am currently writing an application for MoFo but have noticed they don't have a word limit. what kind of word count is recommended in this situation?

I generally say to aim for around 1400-1600 across the four questions. One answer might be longer than another but I generally feel like you don’t want it to be much more than this amount it total as it’s going to be a lot to read.

 

[WhiskeyCharlie]

out of interest what other firms have this policy (that you can't reapply after having been rejected)?

Hogan Lovell's had this policy. Despite them saying its on a per office basis, I believe it was across global offices that offer TCs.

 

[yumjuicebox]

Recently got invited to the Mayer Brown job sim! Does anyone have any advice/ insight? Would appreciate anything! Thank you sm

 

[desperateTCseeker1998]

Is there a space anywhere on the Reed Smith application to write about extracurriculars (/or a box for 'anything else')? Haven't located one yet and might affect what I write in my answers...

 

[tomsmitg]

Hi, does anyone know what 77% progress means on linklaters‘ application portal, with the review having a tick on it?

 

[Farhan65756]

I'm applying to TLT and I need guidance on how to answer these two questions:

1: What are the benefits to TLT of having a sector approach and why? (Max 250 words)

2: The legal landscape is always changing and at TLT we value lawyers who are future ready. What do you perceive to be the biggest challenges facing trainee solicitors in the next 5 years and how will you manage this? (Max 250 words)

 

[Amakaa]

Does anyone know if Kirkland recruits through Vacation schemes. Or do we apply for both?

 

[jta227]

out of interest what other firms have this policy (that you can't reapply after having been rejected)?

I'd honestly appreciate a thread of some sorts about this (in case I have to do a 2nd cycle of applications) - it feels like several firms have this as a policy and don't disclose it.

 

[Hamaaida Khan]

Hey I received the Weil VI invitation as well! Have you guys got any tips? Much appreciated. Thanks

I haven't done it yet. Do you know anything about what we should expect? Thanks!

 

[Hamaaida Khan]

Hey congratulations!!! When did you receive the invite and could you please tell me when did you apply? It would be a great help because I still haven’t heard from them

Hi! I applied on the 7th and got the VI invitation on the 16th

 

[futuretrainee!]

out of interest what other firms have this policy (that you can't reapply after having been rejected)?

Travers Smith! If you get through to an interview you can never reapply - I am not sure if that's route specific though, i.e., you may be able reapply for a DTC if you interviewed for a vac scheme

 

[futuretrainee!]

I'd honestly appreciate a thread of some sorts about this (in case I have to do a 2nd cycle of applications) - it feels like several firms have this as a policy and don't disclose it.

I think they have to - make sure to check their early careers FAQs as that's usually where it's noted or at the very least you'll be asked to get in touch with grad rec to discuss reapplication.

 

[Chill_solicitor]

Hey, just wondering if anyone’s heard back from HSF since the online assessment x

 

[jta227]

I think they have to - make sure to check their early careers FAQs as that's usually where it's noted or at the very least you'll be asked to get in touch with grad rec to discuss reapplication.

I feel like I've heard enough credible stories to have a suspicion that many firms treat a subsequent application more harshly (that's not to say it's impossible to get in), even if their FAQ page states "you are free to reapply"

 

[0livia.pope]

procrastinating the Baker VI 😞