TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Achievingdivinity333]

Hiya, I've had a direct TC AC invite from A&O Shearman. I've never been to an assessment centre before, and I was wondering if anyone has any advice on preparing for it. The AC is end of next week. Also how much technical knowledge do I need? I'm a law grad but I've got literally no knowledge of commercial issues tbh. Sincerely, a very scared gal! @Andrei Radu @Abbie Whitlock

Sorry I wanted to follow up and make a little edit. My grade profile had a 2:2 in it and it turned out to be a non-issue. I know A&O have recently made it the case that you need a 2:2 in every module. So this is motivation for anyone with a grade they are concerned about hehe. My video interview also got cut off before I finished the last words and I had to speed up my response because I realised I was out of time. My application was anything but perfect. I also promise I'm not gorgeous enough to sway any graduate recruitment members haha.

Hiya, can I ask when you received the invite? Also congratulations!!

 

[maylawwww]

Taylor Wessing WE!

 

[safari3]

Taylor Wessing WE!

Congrats! When did you complete the test?

 

[maylawwww]

Congrats! When did you complete the test?

Thank you!! I did the test on 21/10

 

[safari3]

Does anybody know if Taylor Wessing staggers Written exercise invites or do they send them all at once?

based on last cycle, I think at once but not certain

 

[applicant3000]

It’s just that I thought they said 20 trainees in London and 6 in Bristol 😕 thank you though : )!!

I think it could possibly be two schemes of 15 for London, as the FAQs make it sounds like it's both one scheme and two: "1 scheme in London with approximately 15 places on each". It's probably a bit risky to only offer 15 vacation scheme places if you're offering 15 training contracts. Having said that, there is only one set of dates for summer listed on the website.

If anyone has any info directly from Simmons grad rec, it would be appreciated!

 

[TheSlapDotCom]

Does anyone know if it's worth applying to HSFK with one 2.2 module? On the app form, it does mention they look for consistent 2.1s throughout all modules, but how strictly is this adhered to/enforced?

i think it’s fine if u have ec

 

[TheSlapDotCom]

Reed Smith AC!!! I could cry.

Really happy, as I applied for their first year scheme last year, and was rejected. It was very very similar this year, and I thought this year went so much worse so I thought I had no chance. Already crossed it off my tracker lol. I could've sworn my video interview was so so so so so so bad, and I felt my scores were just average for the SJT.

Just goes to show you never know I guess.

well done that’s amazing!! hope it goes well for u xx

 

[tom-sawyer]

just one. then HR interview next.

Is the test for Gibson Dunn automatic?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, thanks for such a detailed response. Do you think it would be okay to mention two practice areas/ industry groups? And then perhaps align it with the firm’s sector focused approach?

No problem!

Yes, I think this is a strong approach. It's natural to have an inclination towards a few specific practice areas, and being open about those interests helps convey authenticity. At the same time, demonstrating an understanding and interest in the firm's broader, sector-focused approach shows that you're thinking beyond individual departments and considering how that fits the training that you want