TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Willgetatc]

Anyone heard back from linklaters post holding email (for VS)?
Or from slaughters post holding email (for DTC)?

 

[Prudentia]

LOOOOOL honestly yes that’s the only address they had listed😂😂😂😂😂

 

[RowdtoTC2026]

I have done Clyde’s online assessmen yesterday and did not get the VI invite so should I assume pfo?

 

[TCComingSoon]

Is Trowers assessment deadline tonight as it says assessment link expired when I start it.

 

[radssss]

Is Trowers assessment deadline tonight as it says assessment link expired when I start it.

My email said 12 Jan - 11:59pm but I did the test a few days ago! It’s worth emailing grad rec and checking with them along with sending them a screenshot of the page which shows link expired asap as proof before its actually time for it to expire

 

[Afraz Akhtar]

@Afraz Akhtar I reached the final stage with a law firm three weeks ago - they haven't given out offers yet to anyone and I am yet to hear back on the outcome of that interview, maybe even this week. However, I am away for a week in another country and switched my sim card. If they were to call (hopefully) with an offer, that call wouldn't reach me. Am I right to assume that they would then email? A bit worried that I may come off as unprofessional and/or not receive comms from them at all for this reason.

Hey @Mikeross750 if you have an international number, it is best to provide that to them and let them know you can only be contacted on that or email. Give them the option, just in case they want to deliver the news directly. I know some seniors love hearing the excitement in your voice when you get any offer - which is why you typically get a call from a partner for the TC offer. Graduate recruitment do all the work, but the partners get all the glory.... and don't worry, they're able to make international calls.

Although if you don't provide the number, it is enough to ask them to email you due to your travels. Although its not unprofessional not to do so, it is just courtesy, given the fact you've gotten this far in the process.

Good luck!

 

[Deleted member 43292]

me when grad rec recommends you only apply to 5 firms. I understand that it allows you to tailor your application, but there is no way you can ensure you don't get cut off at any of the in between stages haha...

 

[nbjani]

@nbjani there is no set structure to any questions, just suggestions. You're right in thinking the best way to approach competency questions is to STAR them, but that strategy has been advised based off how the question is structured, it invites you to talk about a time or an example where you've displayed that particular skill.

With strengths based questions more generally, it heavily depends on the way the question is asked. Let's look at two different ones that I've been asked in the past:

1. "What would your friends say are your top qualities"
2. "Do you prefer focusing on the bigger picture or the smaller details"

Although both questions are strengths based, I can only qualify the second with an example naturally. It would just be plain awkward if I provided an example of a time my friends complimented me (they do so very rarely). However, with the second, I can talk qualify why I think I prefer focusing on the smaller details, and leverage an experience that made me come to that realisation.

So, look at the way the question is structured, and check to see if it invites any examples. Where it does, be sure to use it as it will give you more to say and help sell who you are as a candidate. However, where it doesn't invite examples, don't stress too much, providing one is just a bonus anyway.

As always thanks so much Afraz, you really are a legend!

 

[TheSaulGoodman]

Hey guys, quick question, when a firm asks in an interview to speak about a recent commercial news story, do you typically pick a deal, a headline showing a wider trend or something else?

Would love some insight!

I usually pick a wider market trend / potential fluctuation in the market that could affect their clients (without directly saying xyz will affect clients unless they've asked)

 

[Saul_specter]

has anyone received slaughters interview for feb? or have they only given out interviews for jan

 

[TheSaulGoodman]

Has anyone that did Milbank Stage 1 received a pfo? I did my test on the 3rd of Jan but not heard back

I haven't received a PFO but also haven't received a stage 2 test (did stage 1 Dec 30).....anxiety inducing

 

[user123987]

anyone heard from wedlake bell ?

 

[hanz123]

RPC’s marketing team when they see other firm’s marketing teams. BECAUSE THEY COULD NEVER!!

Maddy knew who she was from a very early age? Well so did RPC

LMAOOOO

 

[trainee4u]

Ah okay thank you. I called but no one picked up and their mailboxes are full unfortunately. I might try again later today. Hopefully they do see the email if I cannot get through to them.

Have you had a negative experience with them responding to their emails before? I emailed the [email protected] address.

 

[Afraz Akhtar]

@Afraz Akhtar Hi, How do you recommend answering the interview question asking to compare other firms you have applied to. I understand that they’re ultimately trying to understand what distinguishes us, but how do you balance showing that you are a competitive candidate that has progressed elsewhere but not making them think they are not your first choice (especially since I have been asked before what stages I’ve reached with other firms specifically)
Thank you!

@spongebob for these sort of questions, they're usually checking two things:

1. If you've applied to firms that are similar to them
2. How dedicated you are to their firm in particular

The reason being, if you apply to firms that aren't necessarily this firms competitors, it could signal that your interest in their offering isn't particularly strong enough and you may leave upon qualification. Instead, they want to see that they are your top choice (as you said) so there is no risk of wasting investment here.

The way to approach is therefore, focus in on 2-3 firms that are very similar that you have applied for. Either similar is international reach, practice area strength, think back to your reasons for applying to this firm and try to get them to align with that (even if it is very minimal). They may want to know why it is you applied for them, so be sure to keep your interest in law consistent here. As for setting them as the top contender, I'd hope they don't ask directly (that feels a little gauche) but even if they do/don't - you should still naturally end with this, by honing in on what makes them better or why they interest you more. It helps to be as specific as possible here, so if talking about a case they worked on, or the types of clients the engage with helps then reference that. Their services/client base will differ slightly.

 

[hanz123]

Anyone from from AG Leeds office post critical thinking?

 

[Novaa]

me when grad rec recommends you only apply to 5 firms. I understand that it allows you to tailor your application, but there is no way you can ensure you don't get cut off at any of the in between stages haha...

Me looking at my 5th PFO, I fear if I took that advice in… I would have had to personally go and start the 2026-27 thread.

 

[AMullin]

I have done Clyde’s online assessment yesterday and did not get the VI invite so should I assume pfo?

I’m in the same boat, did the assessment yesterday morning and radio silence from them today 👌

 

[Donuttime]

@Novaa haha to me this seems like you met the benchmark of the VI, which means they narrowed down the applicant pool, and then made any decisions based off the application form - hence its the standard PFO and not a benchmark failure. Confusing.... but don't fret onto the next.

wait so ive gotten this email for very PFO amberjack email ive gotten- Unfortunately, at this stage in the recruitment process, we are unable to provide feedback. We wish you every success in your future career in law and thank you sincerely for your interest in XYZ

so does that mean i passed the benchmark for the VI and not the amberjack>

 

[user123987]

Anyone from from AG Leeds office post critical thinking?

I applied to Manchester, haven’t heard back!