TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Dannie]

does freshfields have a VI...

 

[lawschool123]

Hi, the Freshfields test definitely includes a VI (it says so on their preparation hub). Since the test is untimed, I was wondering whether it is advisable to take a break between completing the test and sitting the VI? I have a lot of work to get through in addition to the test, and tend to find it overwhelming to sit the VI on the same say as completing the test. Is it allowed to not start the VI section until the next day?

 

[Amgrad]

Congratulations!! Are they rolling for their open days then?? I thought 17 October was the deadline for all in person events

Thank you! Idk, I was surprised though. Maybe it's like Willkie, though they said it's mostly non-rolling, they will review the majority of applications after the deadline, but if you applied early and you're stand out they will back to you.

 

[TortillaTC]

Thank you! Idk, I was surprised though. Maybe it's like Willkie, though they said it's mostly non-rolling, they will review the majority of applications after the deadline, but if you applied early and you're stand out they will back to you.

Probably yes thank you and good luck at the open day

 

[Bread]

Hi, the Freshfields test definitely includes a VI (it says so on their preparation hub). Since the test is untimed, I was wondering whether it is advisable to take a break between completing the test and sitting the VI? I have a lot of work to get through in addition to the test, and tend to find it overwhelming to sit the VI on the same say as completing the test. Is it allowed to not start the VI section until the next day?

It depends, for instance in the A&O one you can take a short break between SJT and VI but you can't like close the tab or anything, it's more of like a toilet/snack break

 

[s123]

Anyone heard from Mayer brown?

 

[Dannie]

Hi, the Freshfields test definitely includes a VI (it says so on their preparation hub). Since the test is untimed, I was wondering whether it is advisable to take a break between completing the test and sitting the VI? I have a lot of work to get through in addition to the test, and tend to find it overwhelming to sit the VI on the same say as completing the test. Is it allowed to not start the VI section until the next day?

But isn't that stage 2?

 

[James Wakefield]

Thanks to Eversheds for sending both an acceptance and rejection for their insight evening. 😅

 

[FutureTraineeMaybe]

Hello @Abbie Whitlock , in the reed smith app form, would you recommend putting my extracurriculars and positions of responsibility in the work experience section? or is it better to exclude it from this section

 

[lawschool123]

But isn't that stage 2?

Oh, I don't see that there are two stages - it just mentions one online assessment on their site. Here is the link: https://www.freshfields.com/en/your-career/united-kingdom/early-careers/trainee-associate-program

 

[Dannie]

The email you get with the invitation says 'invitation to stage 1' and nothing about a VI...

Oh, I don't see that there are two stages - it just mentions one online assessment on their site. Here is the link: https://www.freshfields.com/en/your-career/united-kingdom/early-careers/trainee-associate-program

I called HR who didn't seem to know anything about this but just said that they would be very clear with what is in the test. I have to take it this weekend and don't really know what to make of it

 

[msclm]

Anyone know what I might expect from the final partner interview for Sidley? Any and all help appreciated!

 

[lawschool123]

The email you get with the invitation says 'invitation to stage 1' and nothing about a VI...


I called HR who didn't seem to know anything about this but just said that they would be very clear with what is in the test. I have to take it this weekend and don't really know what to make of it

Hi, the email mentions this: "We recommend visiting the Freshfields Preparation Plus to familiarise yourself with the format of the online assessment and what to expect." When I logged into the Preparation Plus site, there was a 'practice assessments' section, which includes a VI practice.

 

[GiveMeTC2026]

PWC test invite but an hour ago they said unsuccessful application.

 

[londonlawyer]

Weil's VS application doesn't have a work experience section or question - does anyone know what their application process is this year?

 

[Harvey Specter]

Weil's VS application doesn't have a work experience section or question - does anyone know what their application process is this year?

I went to their insight day on Wednesday. They said the first stage is a short application form to capture grades and eligibility information. The form has a section for any mitigating circumstances too. After this, they send out an SJT + VI (combined).

They assess the application, SJT score and VI together to select who to invite to the AC. Those who do well on the AC will receive a VS offer (both taking place in the Spring so no Summer VS this year). There are 12-15 places per scheme.​

 

[James Wakefield]

Anyone know how many batches of Ashurst WVS written exercise there are?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hello @Abbie Whitlock , in the reed smith app form, would you recommend putting my extracurriculars and positions of responsibility in the work experience section? or is it better to exclude it from this section

Hey!

I would say that if they are long-term and structured extra-curriculars and positions of responsibility, this would be fine to include in the work experience section (as long as you can discuss your role, responsibilities, and the skills you gained). For example, I always used to include my committee positions in societies in the work experience section as it can demonstrate a lot of valuable skills.

However, if they're more hobby-based, I would exclude them from this section

 

[Superfrozone]

Just sat the Freshfields test! Can someone confirm what the stages are for their vacation scheme? If you meet the benchmark for the test.. is it straight to AC or...?