TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6 😢

So far 30 apps. A few of the apps only asked for grades, work experience and/or 1 question: Weil, Freshfields, Milbank, Hogan Lovells, W&C, etc.

I tried to find a bit of balance between quality and quantity. I know some people will prefer one or the other but I think in the middle can work too!​

 

[TCLAuser2002]

Has anyone heard back from HL Summer Vac scheme having completed the second stage by around January 10th?

I completed stage 2 on december 15 and got a PFO yesterday!

 

[AGB2060]

How many applications did most people do this cycle? I only managed 6 😢

8, had a few more in mind but burnt out fully and honestly glad I didnt

 

[TCLAuser2002]

8, had a few more in mind but burnt out fully and honestly glad I didnt

8 with 2 VS impressive tbh Congrats!

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Cleary PFO (obvious)
Shoosmiths reserve???? Okay ig idk

 

[MarriedToWaiting]

Anyone still waiting on Ashurst? Saw one person get a call earlier.

 

[ADhillon01]

If anyone has the Marriott Harrison and/or Fladgate AC coming up, pm me! Be happy to talk over some stuff and brainstorm!

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Sorry to butt into convo and I also recognise im probably getting a bit ahead of myself but does anyone know how firms are (if given a TC from a Spring VS) with waiting until all vs schemes (August) are done to accept an offer?
I'd realistically pick the spring firm but I definitely want to consider all my options. I know it is firm specific but does anyone know if theres a sorta standard or if specific firms are public about things

I'm wondering this too...

 

[biglawslave]

Hey! Does anyone know what the Macfarlanes 1st assessment is like? Is it an Amberjack/Capp and does it have a VI? Applying to their DTC but I couldn't find much info.. Thanks in Advance!

 

[AGB2060]

8 with 2 VS impressive tbh Congrats!

Thank you thank you! Kinda put my all into this forgot about uni haha

 

[lawstudent2]

Anyone still waiting on Ashurst? Saw one person get a call earlier.

Idk what to make of it, I cannot tell if they have made all of their offers today and we are about to get rejected or if there is still a chance

 

[MarriedToWaiting]

Idk what to make of it, I cannot tell if they have made all of their offers today and we are about to get rejected or if there is still a chance

Not unheard of for firms to make offers late into the day. Having said that...This is a painful wait.

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

This is my 7th AC and I’ve never experienced an interview like this one, at every single thing I said the interviewer interjected in some way to probe at. First it seemed fair, but it came to a point where they were just laughing at their own jokes poking fun at things I said. I don’t really care if I get an offer, I would never want to work with a partner like that but wow I knew law could be bad but I never anticipated that what a horror story!

Honestly disgusting. The worst part is that they had to go through an interview to get where they are. The fact that they lack any sort of empathy having been in your shoes more disappointing. There will be better things around the corner, I am sure of it. Good luck with the rest of the application season ☺️

Tbh they likely have not been in our shoes. The rigmarole for traineeship has just gotten more and more complex and it is likely that the people setting these up have no idea the hoops we have to jump through. Regardless, they should have basic empathy and know what it's like to apply for a job. Hope you get some good news @aspiringtrainee1 !

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Travers Smith partner interview???
Randomly called me earlier today - I applied for Summer (might be the only option).

 

[Laurel Lance - Black Canary]

Travers Smith partner interview???
Randomly called me earlier today - I applied for Summer (might be the only option).

Congrats!! Go go Mrs MP, I got a PFO while ago..

 

[jy1041405]

I still have not heard back from Simmons London.
I've emailed them very politely asking any update regarding my application as it seems that a lot of people received a rejection email saying that they are at capacity. That was about a month ago and I still haven't heard back. Should I send a follow-up email or should I just assume PFO?
If anyone has any words of wisdom please let me know including @Abbie Whitlock !! Thank you in advance

 

[SueD]

Has anyone progressed with PMC for summer VS London? I have only had confirmation email (when I applied in November) and no response to an email I sent at the start of February asking about likely date to hear anything..

 

[I_hate_pickingusernames]

Hi everyone!
I have a first round interview for Bristows coming up on Friday with a partner and senior associate and would LOVE any tips you guys have on approaching preparing for the interview
.
I'm excited for this one as this is my dream firm and has been for many years now. Hoping to just enjoy the process and speaking to the team face to face, but would appreciate any advice on the commercial discussion and what the problem-based scenarios might look like. Thanks

 

[aliiiisonxooox]

Had DL@ Pip assessment centre today.

Just wanted to let you know that this forum was the most helpful- and the people in it make a true difference.

I was wondering if anyone knows how long it takes to hear back? There’s another one on tomorrow.

I’ve got so many rejections this cycle. A lot of PFOs. A lot of VI’s too, and PFOs as a result. I’m glad I got a chance for the AC and I really hope to get this 🙏🏼 I’ve been struggling with insomnia and anxiety as a result, but this forum keeps me going and really motivates me, so thank you guys.

 

[haribolover]

Travers Smith partner interview???
Randomly called me earlier today - I applied for Summer (might be the only option).

Congrats! Did you apply close to the deadline or early on?