TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[marisachr]

Over 1.5 month ago for the London office!

 

[scoffee]

Does anyone know what kinds of questions Dentons asks in their VI (motivational, competency etc)?

Hey, it was a bit of a mix of both! I would say there was nothing that was a complete curveball as long as you've done good research of the firm and its values, and the unlimited prep time does help ease the nerves a little bit. Best of luck!

 

[c.t.tc]

From my experience (and conversations with others who have landed TCs) the written assessment is not something that can on its own entirely eliminate you from contention.

It’s marked on several factors, in an attempt to gauge comparable skills of a potential trainee.

Things like: Can the candidate handle the time pressure? Can they complete a relatively complete and well structured email/memo. Are there glaring spelling and grammar issues? Can they follow instructions given in the assessment? Did they hand it in on time and in the correct format? How many legal/commercial issues did they attempt to extract?

I’ve done a few of these now and it has always stressed me out too, thinking back on how I did. What helps me is to just remind myself I did my best given the circumstances, and that assessors know it won’t and isn’t supposed to be perfect.

I second this! Also every firm does things differently so it’s easy to drive yourself insane overthinking it (which I’m definitely guilty of doing) and best to just put it out of mind until you actually know whether you’re moving forward or not! Firms will look at things holistically and one thing going wrong like running out of time won’t be what takes you out by itself, so try not to beat yourself up about it too much. If your written piece is incredible but just not quite finished there’s a good chance you’re still be considered!

 

[Vakil]

It could be that grad rec decided they couldn’t make decision on the chat bot interview alone, and will combine it with the SJT to make a holistic decision?

 

[abc124]

Wait so the first time you applied you ditched the test, then you reapplied on a new email and then didn’t complete the test again and got sent the sjt?

 

[hawkins19]

@c.t.tc @Vakil - thank you so much, super kind and helpful!!!

 

[Laur2cj]

DM me if anyone has any insight into the CMS VI please? Also does anyone know how much prep time you get?

 

[abc124]

Ohh so do you mean you got the SJT for both apps?

 

[TheSlapDotCom]

wait yk on mishcon’s app portal u can see whether it says “completed” under the online assessment tab? have u check the status there? cz if it says completed then it’s obvious they’ve glitched out

 

[Trophy]

Silly question, but how do you apply to Cleary? I am on their page, and there is no apply button... I cannot see it on the brochure either! Is the test trying to apply?!?😭

 

[BealMcAlly]

Silly question, but how do you apply to Cleary? I am on their page, and there is no apply button... I cannot see it on the brochure either! Is the test trying to apply?!?😭

Perhaps their schemes have now closed?

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

Perhaps their schemes have now closed?

Opportunities and Application Information

While Cleary Gottlieb's search for candidates is broad, our focus is narrow: hiring lawyers who thrive in a firm that emphasizes excellence and collegiality. Cleary has developed a diverse, first-rate firm by recruiting in the UK and abroad.

www.clearygottlieb.com

It’s on this page under current opportunities. Their deadline isn’t until Jan 31 2026.​

 

[Trophy]

Opportunities and Application Information

While Cleary Gottlieb's search for candidates is broad, our focus is narrow: hiring lawyers who thrive in a firm that emphasizes excellence and collegiality. Cleary has developed a diverse, first-rate firm by recruiting in the UK and abroad.

www.clearygottlieb.com

It’s on this page under current opportunities. Their deadline isn’t until Jan 31 2026.​

fairs thank you!

 

[anon78365222111]

Did anyone that do an Akin TI receive a reply? Also Baker VI if anyone’s done it pls msg me

 

[itsfearless15]

Do we assume post-app PFO if we haven't heard from kirkland about a VI yet?

 

[dreamer]

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

Suii, do you think that was some sort of confusion? I'm curious to hear your experience with the process. Thank you!