TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[MaryAra299]

What stood weird to me is that someone here asked the grad rec team of a&o shearman whether they're considering graduates for their vac schemes to which they replied that they're not. But I've already applied to their winter vacation scheme and also received online test + interview invite which is quite confusing. Plus they also worded things in the application form in such a way that would make you believe that they are considering graduates which made me continue my application and not doubt. Literally their questions were phrased like "have you graduated or do you anticipate graduating with a 2:1, yes or no"

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

What stood weird to me is that someone here asked the grad rec team of a&o shearman whether they're considering graduates for their vac schemes to which they replied that they're not. But I've already applied to their winter vacation scheme and also received online test + interview invite which is quite confusing. Plus they also worded things in the application form in such a way that would make you believe that they are considering graduates which made me continue my application and not doubt. Literally their questions were phrased like "have you graduated or do you anticipate graduating with a 2:1, yes or no"

Yes that's just the standard initial part of the form though

 

[Future Trainee - 2027 confirmed]

I am happy to confirm that I have secured a training contract with my dream firm, a globally recognised practice. It has taken a lot of perseverance, and I waited to speak with the HR team and finalise everything before sharing the news, but it is official now.


I want to extend my thanks to everyone at TCLA for the support, guidance and encouragement along the way. Your advice helped me improve my interview technique, develop commercial awareness and application strategy, and it made all the difference when preparing for the assessment centre.


I know many of you may have doubts about your background, grades or university . I certainly did. I did not attend a Russell Group university. My university was very much middling, and my final grade was not a first class. In fact, it was significantly below my actual potential due to mitigating circumstances. I did not get AAA at college. I think my highest grade was a C, and although I have 11 GCSEs, they are also well below what I was capable of at the time.


What mattered was that the firm saw past the transcript. They looked at my potential. I performed strongly at the assessment centre and ranked among the top performers in my vacation scheme cohort, thanks in large part to the insight and tools I gained through TCLA.


One thing I would also emphasise is the value of external experience. Working in other fields for a period gave me transferable skills and helped demonstrate a track record of success outside of law. It can really add depth to your profile and show firms that you bring more than just academic credentials.


To anyone still applying, please do not give up. Firms really do take candidates from all kinds of backgrounds. TCLA can help you , and I genuinely would not be in this position without it.


Now the next challenge is the SQE, and I am ready to get stuck in. For anyone else, feel free to reach out. I am happy to share tips as I go.


Wishing you all the very best of luck. If I can do it, you can too.