TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2025-26

[Hector123]

a friend of mine contacted SH for updates and they just replied saying they'll get back to vac scheme candidates by the end of this week

Anymore news on this

 

[Saul_specter]

anyone got information from perkins coie vac scheme webinar yesterday?

 

[Harvey Specter - Presiding Partner]

anyone got information from perkins coie vac scheme webinar yesterday?

I think it was recorded cos Jaysen sent an email out yesterday with a link to the recording:

TCLA Directory

directory.thecorporatelawacademy.com

 

[Hopeful applicant]

Mayer brown test I have never done Amberjack and only a few video interviews. I would appreciate any tips (Mayer Brown-specific or not). Thank you!!!

 

[soph107048]

I'd appreciate some advice on how often it is acceptable/whether it is acceptable to check up with a law firm on updates re your application in a situation where some time has passed since previous stages, and many others have received offers/PFOs. Being based outside of London, I have to plan the summer months well in advance especially in terms of accommodation/other schemes etc, and am working part-time meaning I'd have to communicate any absences in advance as well. I have another scheme right before and don't think its wise to book accommodation/flights (since refundable ones are much more expensive) before hearing back, as if I were to get the other offer I'd be staying in London for an extra two weeks. The firm I'm waiting to hear back from is quite high on my list, but assuming I were to get an offer, I only have another few weeks within which I could make the timings of the scheme work logistically and would hate to miss out on the opportunity if recruitment decisions take even longer. @Abbie Whitlock and others, could you advise on whether it's appropriate to communicate this to the firm? I've already contacted them once and only got a vague "we're reviewing applications" reply quite some time ago, after which it has been radio silence. I wouldn't want to jeopardise my chances by pushing for a decision, but since many decisions have gone out I'm not quite sure what the delay is.

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Does anyone have any advice? I have been invited for an AC but both dates clash with a previous engagement that I cannot miss. Not sure what to do or say as I really like the firm

 

[Jessica Pearson - Managing Partner]

Also Dechert and DWF PFO post app. Yay i guess...

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

I'd appreciate some advice on how often it is acceptable/whether it is acceptable to check up with a law firm on updates re your application in a situation where some time has passed since previous stages, and many others have received offers/PFOs. Being based outside of London, I have to plan the summer months well in advance especially in terms of accommodation/other schemes etc, and am working part-time meaning I'd have to communicate any absences in advance as well. I have another scheme right before and don't think its wise to book accommodation/flights (since refundable ones are much more expensive) before hearing back, as if I were to get the other offer I'd be staying in London for an extra two weeks. The firm I'm waiting to hear back from is quite high on my list, but assuming I were to get an offer, I only have another few weeks within which I could make the timings of the scheme work logistically and would hate to miss out on the opportunity if recruitment decisions take even longer. @Abbie Whitlock and others, could you advise on whether it's appropriate to communicate this to the firm? I've already contacted them once and only got a vague "we're reviewing applications" reply quite some time ago, after which it has been radio silence. I wouldn't want to jeopardise my chances by pushing for a decision, but since many decisions have gone out I'm not quite sure what the delay is.

Hello!

This is completely understandable, especially when you have to plan lots of things in advance! I do think it is acceptable to briefly follow-up again with the firm, as you are not chasing for the sake of it - you have genuine logistical constraints and planning that would be needed, and firms are usually aware that candidates need some clarity on timing for these reasons. I would just make sure that you frame it carefully so that it doesn't come across as pushing for them to make a decision.

Given that it has been a while since you last contacted them, and others have heard back, I think a short and polite email is completely reasonable. I would position it around needing an indication of a timeline and when you might expect to hear back from them, rather than asking for an outcome (e.g. briefly explaining that you have other scheme commitments, accommodation to organise, and work notice to give, etc).

I'd say that something along the lines of stating that you remain very interested in the firm but would really appreciate any guidance on timing should strike the right balance, and I can't imagine it'll jeopardise your chances at all.

I hope you hear back soon!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Does anyone have any advice? I have been invited for an AC but both dates clash with a previous engagement that I cannot miss. Not sure what to do or say as I really like the firm

Hey!

Congratulations on the AC!!

I had a similar issue with my AC invite from Reed Smith last cycle, as the only dates they offered clashed with a vacation scheme I was already on, so I couldn't attend any of them. I emailed the graduate recruitment team to explain, and they said that more dates would be released and I could book onto one of those.

Of course, every firm is different and I appreciate it is really frustrating if the AC dates you have been offered are the only ones, but I would always reach out to the graduate recruitment team and ask if you haven't already. They might have additional dates planned or be able to make alternative arrangements to allow you to attend an AC.

I'd definitely email and ask - just explain that there is a clash that is unavoidable, and reiterate your interest in the firm. You never know, and at least you'll have a clear answer either way.

I hope you are able to work it out, and best of luck with the AC if you do!

 

[grs563]

atp can SH put us out of our misery at least