• Hey Guest, Have an interview coming up? We’ve opened new mock interview slots this week. Book here
  • TCLA Premium: Now half price (£30/month). Applications, interviews, commercial awareness + 700+ examples.
    Join →

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Afraz Akhtar

Legendary Member
Staff member
Premium Member
  • Dec 22, 2025
    194
    462
    Hey guys, just needed some clarification. I have managed to secure internships in tier 1 local firms in Dubai and a US firm, too. Do recruiters tend to view experience gained in Dubai differently compared to London-based experience, potentially trivialising the former?
    @Adnanlone the short answer is no. Any legal experience, regardless of location is beneficial. In fact, at times international experience could actually be seen as a bonus, so think about how the chance to gain some exposure internationally has actually contributed to your understanding of commercial law for global businesses. Even reading your post makes me a little excited.... I'm intrigued!
     
    • ℹ️
    Reactions: Donna Paulsen
    Has anybody heard from the following firms or knows when they’ll usually respond (i.e., late Jan, early Feb, etc.), so I can manage expectations?

    Sidley Austin Spring VS - applied 9 Jan
    Travers Smith Summer VS - applied 14 Jan
    Covington & Burling Summer VS - applied 16 Jan
    Morgan Lewis Summer VS - applied 20 Jan.

    I believe Debevoise respond early Feb cos I had a look on the older threads. Morgan Lewis closes the apps today so just want an idea for them.​
    none
     

    Afraz Akhtar

    Legendary Member
    Staff member
    Premium Member
  • Dec 22, 2025
    194
    462
    for referees on apps - will it look bad if i say no to the firm directly contacting my referees? (i would want to get in touch beforehand with my old boss lol)
    @IWillGetATC No, this doesn't look bad at all. Appreciate it may look like you're hiding something, but this question simply checks to see if you need to get in touch with them before they request it - it's a courtesy the firm offers. I always click no, because I'd rather let the referee know when the request will be coming as opposed to trusting them to respond to it alone.
     

    Mvla

    Well-Known Member
    Premium Member
  • Dec 9, 2025
    20
    95
    Has anybody heard from the following firms or knows when they’ll usually respond (i.e., late Jan, early Feb, etc.), so I can manage expectations?

    Sidley Austin Spring VS - applied 9 Jan
    Travers Smith Summer VS - applied 14 Jan
    Covington & Burling Summer VS - applied 16 Jan
    Morgan Lewis Summer VS - applied 20 Jan.

    I believe Debevoise respond early Feb cos I had a look on the older threads. Morgan Lewis closes the apps today so just want an idea for them.​
    Did my first year scheme with Covington, they usually respond in about 2 weeks! Also, grad rec said AC's will be in Feb.
     

    About Us

    The Corporate Law Academy (TCLA) was founded in 2018 because we wanted to improve the legal journey. We wanted more transparency and better training. We wanted to form a community of aspiring lawyers who care about becoming the best version of themselves.

    Get Our 2026 Vacation Scheme Guide

    Nail your vacation scheme applications this year with our latest guide, with sample answers to law firm questions.