TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[WillKitchen]

Anyone heard back from FF, MdR or Stephenson Harwood re AC?

Nothing from Mishcon so far. I'm currently at stage 3.

 

[topkop]

Does anyone have some advice or information about the Dechert written assessment, as I am currently clueless 😭

 

[aria_d]

DLA Piper Manc pfo did my ti early December. Actually so done with this process so many PFOs and only got 2 firms to hear back from

I completely get you! I did the DLA TI on 20/12 and just heard back today about not being invited to AC ???
I dont understand why its so hard for firms to just give a PFO and move on rather than keep applicants waiting for 2 months. I appreciate firms who give a definite timeline stating by when exactly they will reply, it helps manage nerves and like atleast I dont have to monitor my inbox like a hound every single minute of everyday lolol

 

[spongebob]

I completely get you! I did the DLA TI on 20/12 and just heard back today about not being invited to AC ???
I dont understand why its so hard for firms to just give a PFO and move on rather than keep applicants waiting for 2 months. I appreciate firms who give a definite timeline stating by when exactly they will reply, it helps manage nerves and like atleast I dont have to monitor my inbox like a hound every single minute of everyday lolol

Ikr! Like 2 months is actually insane and just don't say I've passed the benchmark if that doesn't mean anything and give me false hope??

 

[Eudora]

Did mine on the 17th, still not heard back

Same here, did mine on the 17th and still no news. Looks like the London ACs that went out last week were mostly for December VIs.

 

[trainee4u]

lol just realised the Fanstey assessment was supposed to be completed by 1pm.
Still sent it though!?

Also - they take like 10 minutes on my slow internet connection to upload the recording of the VI answers, so the "video on during assessment" is clearly a sham, lol

 

[a114]

Finally got a Withers sjt invite for Summer. Applied nearly 2 months ago

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hey guys, how to prepare for a negotiation exercise in an AC? @Abbie Whitlock

Hey!

Whilst I haven't completed a negotiation exercise at an AC before, I did complete one when I competed in BIUCAC and during my vacation scheme at Travers Smith, so I'm happy to share how I prepared for these!

I remember finding negotiation exercises really intimidating, but they feel slightly easier and less nerve-wracking once you are actually in it. The key thing to remember is that negotiations are much more about how you approach the discussion, rather than 'winning' or forcing the best deal. You should be looking to display traits such as collaboration, commercial awareness, and clear communication - definitely try to avoid things like aggression and stubbornness (which was slightly challenging for me as a naturally stubborn person haha 😅).

It is difficult to prepare for a negotiation exercise in advance of an AC, as it will depend a lot on the fact pattern itself. In terms of preparation on the day, make sure that you know your brief inside out. It is important to be really clear on your client's priorities, and break the factors down into:

1. What is essential for your client
2. What you are willing to negotiate (i.e. there is some leeway)
3. Areas that you are willing to compromise

It helps to have a think in advance about any potential trade-offs, so that you are not just saying yes or no but can suggest alternatives or offers to the other side that move the discussion forward.

During the exercise itself, focus on listening just as much as speaking. I would try to ask questions, acknowledge the other side's points, and explain your reasoning calmly. A good negotiation should feel constructive rather than adversarial, so make sure to keep the tone professional and solution-focused. If any new information comes up that wasn't included in your facts, show that you can adapt rather than sticking rigidly to what you prepared in advance - this is why it is important to have some areas you are willing to negotiate and compromise on.

Additionally, if it is a team negotiation, I found it really helpful to summarise the points that had been agreed as we went along. This helped for time management, as you want to ensure that you aren't staying stuck on one point for too long. If the negotiation has been stuck for a while, it might make sense to suggest that you move on to the next issue, and come back to the earlier point towards at the end.

One thing that I picked up on after speaking to the assessors at the negotiations I have taken part in is the importance of being realistic with your demands. For example, if your client is aiming for £100,000 for a company, it makes sense to open slightly higher to leave room for negotiate, but you should avoid going wildly overboard (e.g. suggesting £1,000,000). An unrealistic opening position can undermine your credibility and make it harder to build a constructive dialogue. A sensible and well-reasoned starting point shows commercial awareness and helps keep the negotiation collaborative overall.

If you have time to practise, you could have a go at doing a mock negotiation with a friend - even just getting comfortable structuring your points and responding under a bit of pressure can be really helpful. I'd also recommend that you familiarise yourself with concepts such as warranties, indemnities, etc. before the AC (if you haven't already), as these are things that are likely to be negotiated.

Overall, as long as you stay calm and continually aim to work towards a solution with the other side, you will be doing exactly what the graduate recruitment team want to see - even if you don't end up with the 'best' deal.

Best of luck!!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

How should I prepare for an AC written assessment? Any tips/resources would be much appreciated

Hey!
I have written a few previous posts on written exercises and assessments - I have quoted them below! Just shout if you have any follow-up questions, and best of luck with the AC!

Hello!

Congratulations on getting the invite! 🎉 Whilst I haven't completed the Ashurst written exercise, they will usually test your ability to communicate clearly and structure your arguments logically - similar to what you'd do as a trainee when drafting emails or internal notes.

I've outlined some previous tips that I always used when preparing for written exercises below:

• Practice timed writing - pick a 30-45 minute slot, read a short business or news article, and summarise the key points in a structured 1-2 page memo with a clear conclusion summarising your findings.
• Work on prioritisation - pick an article with a lot of information, and practice picking out the 3-4 most important issues rather than trying to summarise and include everything.
• Use a clear structure - this was the main thing that I implemented that helped me score higher on written assessments! Follow a clear structure in your answer, and practice what this would be for each type of document.
• Check clarity - after writing (potentially one of the above), ask yourself if someone with no context to the facts could follow along with the information and your reasoning.
• Proofread under pressure - I would get used to quickly checking grammar and flow, as this is really important in a written exercise! I sometimes struggled with this, as the pressure made me skip parts of my writing, but I found that literally following along with a pen or your finger can make sure you don't miss anything.
• Review sample case studies - I would have a look online and see if there are any free resources that you can have a go at. A true lifesaver during my last cycle was this forum post by Jacob Miller, and I would definitely give it a read!

The main thing that assisted me in written exercises is following a clear structure! I would go through and read all of the materials first, and then go back to pick out the key details. You should be looking for key issues, areas that you will require more information, and anything that you think is important for the client to know.

I would then follow a clear structure in your answer. There are a a few different types of documents that they could test you on - e.g. an email, memo, report, note, etc. I would have a look beforehand at the formatting of each, and have a go at writing them! If you are writing a letter / email to a client, make sure that you aren't including technical terms and writing in way that is easy for them to understand.

I would also try and find ways to showcase that you have the skills that they are looking for in trainees. For example, in one of my previous ACs I was asked to write an email to a supervisor. In this email, I outlined my arguments and recommendation, but I ended it by offering to draft the email / document for the client (e.g. proactivity). This will be dependant on each exercise, but if you can incorporate this in some way, I think it's a great way of standing out!

I hope that assists - best of luck with the written exercise, I'm sure you'll smash it!

Of course, no problem at all!!

Since client emails are such a common format in written exercises, it's definitely worth getting comfortable with how to approach them! A few things that I kept in mind when preparing:

Understand the Purpose and Audience

Before you start writing, clarify who you are writing to (e.g. a client, supervisor, or a colleague) and what information they need from you. The tone, level of formality, and structure will vary depending on whether it's an internal email or an email to an external client.

For example, if you are emailing a client, you want to ensure that they are able to understand any legal principles that you are outlining in your email. As such, it's important to make sure you write it in layman's terms and don't just recite the information given in the materials. However, if you are emailing a supervisor, I would focus on highlighting the most important pieces of information as you are effectively trying to save them time in going through the materials themselves. I would always aim to write in a professional way, and frame it like you would an actual email - such as a subject line and a closing sentence.

Use a Clear and Logical Structure

The main thing that I changed when approaching written exercises was making sure that I had a clear and logical structure. A good client email should be easy to follow. A simple structure could look like:

1. Opening: A brief, polite greeting and context for why you're writing (and what you'll be discussing in the email). If you're emailing a supervisor, it might be useful to include a short summary of your findings at the top (i.e. an early conclusion), and then go into more detail below.
2. Main Body: Summarise the key points or advice clearly and concisely, using short paragraphs. It might be appropriate to use headings and subtitles, especially if there is a lot of information. The goal is to make sure that the client can follow along, and that it isn't just a massive wall of text that is difficult to read.
3. Closing: End with next steps, an offer of assistance, or a polite sign-off (e.g. "Please let me know if you'd like to discuss further"). These elements distinguish an email exercise from a general report or memo, and shows that you are following the brief exactly! If you are emailing a supervisor, I would try to show some proactivity in the closing parts - such as offering to write a first draft of a document or client email.

Keep your tone professional and approachable

I would aim for clear, confident language without being overly formal (but still professional). This can be tricky, but phrases such as "I'd recommend..." or "It may be helpful..." strike a nice balance. Avoid overly technical language or long-winded phrasing - simplicity often conveys professionalism! As stated above, I would definitely avoid legal jargon if you are writing to a client, unless you are certain that a client would understand it.

Also remember that tone can shift slightly depending on the client's relationship with the firm. If you are told this information, a longstanding client might suit a warmer tone, whilst a first-time contact may call for a more formal approach. However, if in doubt, I would always go for a more formal approach - especially in a professional context!

Be precise and client-focused

Remember the purpose for why you are actually writing to the client, and tailor your response to the client's actual issue. I would avoid copying large chunks of background information from the brief (as the client will already have this information!) - instead, demonstrate understanding of their issue by reframing the key points in your own words and applying them directly to the client's situation. Make sure to keep your advice practical - clients care more about what they should do next than about the legal theory behind it. You might find it useful to use signposting phrases such as "In summary..." or "Based on the information provided..." to make your reasoning easy to follow. If there are uncertainties, I would make sure to address them but be reassuring - e.g. "Further details would be needed to confirm this position, but at this stage...".

Check for clarity and tone at the end

Before your time runs out, take a moment to review your email. I always found it helpful to read it aloud (if possible) or follow along with my finger - this helps you catch sentences that are too long, unclear, or sound abrupt. Look for opportunities to simplify, and if a sentence takes more than one breath to read, it's probably too long! Make sure your sign-off fits the context (things such as "Kind regards" or "Best wishes" usually work best). The graduate recruitment team / assessors will be looking for professionalism in formatting and presentation - consistent spacing, clear paragraphing, and correct spelling and grammar will all make a strong impression.

As a practical tip to practice: You could start by taking short case studies and draft sample emails that summarise your advice in 200-300 words. This helps you get used to organising your thoughts quickly and writing in a professional, accessible way.

I hope that helps!

Hello!

A few resources below that I used / might be useful:

• Definitive Guide to Law Firm Case Studies (something I found super useful last cycle!)
• TCLA Written Exercises (a good way to practice if you are able to pay to access resources)
• Some law firms upload example written exercises online - I believe DWF has one available!

Hopefully they help as a starting point (particularly Jacob Miller's post!)

 

[ik06]

Hi! I just wanted to check whether the first test for womble bond dickinson is a situational judgment test or a different type of assessment, and to confirm whether it is actually 5 minutes long as stated. Thanks!

 

[Legallylaw]

Anyone hear from TLT today?

No I haven’t heard back at all I applied for the VS. When did your friend apply?

What did you apply for?

And has anyone else heard back from TLT VS?

He applied for the VS

 

[i-want-a-tc]

DLA PFO post wg regional. Ok I am done with this process like been getting high marks in amberjack is not good enough and high wg score is not good enough for law firms. I guess me and law are done.

This past week:
AG - PFO following critical thinking test
DLA - PFO after wg
Irwin Mitchell - PFO post online assessment
Trowers - PFO following assessment

For context I have 3 years of legal experience and 2 years of tech sales experience and I guess I am not good enough for these law firms.

Good bye law....

PLEASE DO NOT MESSAGE ME ABOUT WHEN I HEARD FROM THESE FIRMS OR WHEN I DID THESE TESTS OR WHEN I APPLIED!!!!!!

I am in the same position as you so I understand where you are coming from. Please don't quit now. I personally take every no as one step closer to a yes. Last cycle I progressed to second stage with 10% of my applications, this cycle I progressed with 80% of apps that separated written application with online test, and a further 40% to third stage of process (No AC yet).
Consider getting friends to read your written app, pay for a subscription somewhere, either TCLA, CLA, Financial Times or jobtestprep for test help with tests, commercial awareness and written apps. And also just stay strong. Wishing you the best and hopefully you don't quit just before you are about to make it.

 

[Chak]

Has anyone done Trowers AC before🙏I would be grateful for any insight

 

[hanz123]

I am in the same position as you so I understand where you are coming from. Please don't quit now. I personally take every no as one step closer to a yes. Last cycle I progressed to second stage with 10% of my applications, this cycle I progressed with 80% of apps that separated written application with online test, and a further 40% to third stage of process (No AC yet).
Consider getting friends to read your written app, pay for a subscription somewhere, either TCLA, CLA, Financial Times or jobtestprep for test help with tests, commercial awareness and written apps. And also just stay strong. Wishing you the best and hopefully you don't quit just before you are about to make it.

100% agree with this, currently in my fourth cycle, and I only got to one AC during my second cycle, which I was unsuccessful with and took a massive toll on me. There are days when you feel low and hopeless, but one thing I say to myself is that it will all be worth it. Manifesting this to be my final cycle

 

[sadlawyer01]

received freshfields AC 3 months after VI for SVS 😭

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

received freshfields AC 3 months after VI for SVS 😭

I lowkey forgot Freshfields even still existed cos of how long they’ve been taking this cycle…

Congrats btw go out there and smash it matey! 🤩

Has anyone not heard from Freshfields post stage 2 in Dec/Jan for DTC? Hope it’s not PFO.​

 

[trainee4u]

Hi! I just wanted to check whether the first test for womble bond dickinson is a situational judgment test or a different type of assessment, and to confirm whether it is actually 5 minutes long as stated. Thanks!

No, yes

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

Stephenson Harwood K&L Gates Stevens & Bolton Marriott Russel-Cooke Brabners cleary too

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

 

[TCGrad1642]

I lowkey forgot Freshfields even still existed cos of how long they’ve been taking this cycle…

Congrats btw go out there and smash it matey! 🤩

Has anyone not heard from Freshfields post stage 2 in Dec/Jan for DTC? Hope it’s not PFO.​

I just asked this in dtc thread haha! sadly not

 

[radssss]

Withers PFO ✅✅✅

I’m sorry
Is this post online assessment for london? If yes, when did you do your assesment?
Best of luck for the rest of the cycle!

 

[V2002]

Does anyone have insights on Burges Salmon AC or attended the "food for thought event" Please message me!