TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[AspiringComLaw]

Hi all,
Does anyone know what the application process is for the Hogan Lovells Lift Off programme? Is it just a written application + online assessment? Or is there an interview/assessment day element to it? I couldn't find any clear information about it on the website.
Thanks in advance!

 

[ZNadeem]

Does anyone know if Stepenson Harwood's online assessment contains a video interview at the end like the other firms using Amberjack? Their website only mentioned the SJT, numerical and verbal reasoning sections but I cannot find more information.

Probably not — from what’s online, the Future Potential Assessment involves numerical and verbal questions plus scenario-based reasoning. It’s designed to test intellect and creativity in typical trainee scenarios, not legal knowledge, since applicants can come from any background.

 

[ZNadeem]

Hey @vera.mekhonoshina, do you have any advice on how to approach this question. Like can it be completely unlaw realted, what do you think there looking for here
If you could witness any event, past, present, or future firsthand, what would it be and why?

Just to offer some insight — yes, it can be completely unrelated to law I would say. The point is to give insight into your personality and interests. It’s an interesting question, so I’d suggest brainstorming a few ideas and picking one that genuinely excites you. They’ll also be looking at how you communicate clearly — good structure, direct language, and avoiding tangents will make your answer stand out.

 

[ZNadeem]

Hey everyone, I went to a networking event recently and spoke with a trainee from a firm I’m interested in applying to. I only realised afterwards that I’d forgotten their name, and I’ve had no luck finding them on LinkedIn or the firm’s website. Do you think there’s still any point in referencing the conversation in my application (e.g. ‘when speaking to a trainee at X event I realised…’), or would that come across as uncredible?

Yes, definitely! It’s still valuable to reference the conversation — the insight itself matters more than the name. In fact, sometimes mentioning names just wastes words.

 

[ZNadeem]

Is it okay to make abbreviations in applications, like private equity -> PE?

Yes, you can — just make sure to write it out in full the first time (e.g. private equity (PE)) and then use the abbreviation afterwards.

 

[dannyp123]

Hey guys does anyone know where I can find Orrick's application from last year?

 

[zara elles]

I should be ready to submit my Jones Day application in the next day or two. Given that people have already been getting interview invites, would it be better if I applied for the Spring Vac scheme or would I still have a good chance at the Winter scheme?

 

[dreamer]

Hey guys, I'm aware that Macfarlanes opened a month ago with a rolling deadline. However, recently I've become more interested in the work the firm does. Would I still be fine applying now?

If this is any help. Applied a week ago and already in the 2nd stage. All the best, champ!

 

[dreamer]

anyone heard back from Macs?

application or assessment stage?

 

[WeGotThis!]

Hi all,
Does anyone know what the application process is for the Hogan Lovells Lift Off programme? Is it just a written application + online assessment? Or is there an interview/assessment day element to it? I couldn't find any clear information about it on the website.
Thanks in advance!

Hello! I had applied about 2 years ago, and that time the process mentioned on their website was application + Watson Glaser. Followed by inviting you to the Lift Off Programme and at the end of the programme you could choose whether you wanted to do a VS or a Direct TC interview.

A good idea would be to email the grad recruitment team to confirm the process, as my information maybe dated considering I tried my luck for their programme 2 years ago and the process may have changed now.

 

[CharlesT47]

If this is any help. Applied a week ago and already in the 2nd stage. All the best, champ!

Hi which is the second stage? What does that entail?

 

[CharlesT47]

If this is any help. Applied a week ago and already in the 2nd stage. All the best, champ!

also, did you apply for the summer/ spring scheme?

 

[vera.mekhonoshina]

Hey @vera.mekhonoshina, do you have any advice on how to approach this question. Like can it be completely unlaw realted, what do you think there looking for here
If you could witness any event, past, present, or future firsthand, what would it be and why?

Hi @Jamtaz12,

This is definitely one of the less straightforward application questions! But at the same time, I think that it gives you plenty of space to be creative. I don't think that your answer has to be law-related - if anything, I imagine that picking a non-law-related topic will be more memorable for the reader.

I think what the firm is looking for in this specific question is your ability to write clearly and passionately about a topic, as well as show your ability to explain the reasons behind your choice. Therefore, I would recommend paying equal attention to the 'what' and 'why' parts of the question. I hope this helps!

 

[vera.mekhonoshina]

The application question is: ‘Is technology and AI an opportunity or a threat for the firm and why?’ The trainee I spoke with mentioned that they use the firm’s AI tools every day and that it really improves their efficiency. That’s why I thought it would be useful to mention this conversation in my answer.

I agree with other responses - the insight is definitely more important than the name of the trainee. You can specify the exact ways the firm uses AI (e.g. contract review), which will provide that desired level of depth in your answer!

 

[vera.mekhonoshina]

Is it okay to make abbreviations in applications, like private equity -> PE?

Yes, as long as you first write out the term in full!

 

[SBD total 1000lbs (and an applicant)]

Hi which is the second stage? What does that entail?

the second stage is a judgment style scenario type test, theres also some video questions u have to answer. has anyone heard back after completing the second stage?

 

[vera.mekhonoshina]

For the HL 'tell us about any experiences' question, would it be okay to only talk about one experience, or do we have to mention a few? I've only done one volunteering thing which was linked to my main hobby so not sure what else I could mention! I did do some solo travel on my year abroad which built my resilience, adaptability etc, but I am unsure as to whether that is too informal of an experience in include here? Can anyone advise? Thanks!!

Hi! What's the full phrasing of the question?

 

[Maddy]

If I apply today on Ashurst’s deadline, will the test be sent automatically, and how many days will I have to complete it?

 

[dm_corporate]

Sidley rejection

 

[Mara]

Oop two rejections in already and I feel locked out of the legal profession yet again ):