TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, hope you're well.

I have a few questions, if that's ok!

(1) I was wondering if you could give me advice as to how I should answer this question differently than the classic "why law": "Describe a specific personal experience that shaped your motivation to pursue a legal career. How has this influenced your career ambitions?"

(2) How would you structure the answer to the following question: "Select one article from the DLA Piper Insights page on a client sector that interests you. How does it align with your personal and professional ambitions?"

(3) So I need to link any of my answers back to the firm and why I am interested in it?

Thanks!

Hi!

I am doing well, thank you - I hope you are too! Of course

For question one, I think this is asking you to be slightly more specific than the classic "why law" question, although they are still similar. Rather than talking broadly about why you want to become a lawyer, I'd focus on one particular experience that genuinely influenced your decision, explain why it was significant, and then show how it shaped your career ambitions. For example, if a particular piece of work or conversation sparked your interest in commercial law, I would explain how that led you to pursue further experience and ultimately confirmed your motivation.

For question two, I would structure this by briefly summarising the article, explaining why the issue interests you, and then discuss the implications for clients. Lastly, I would link it back to your own ambitions - for example, why you would enjoy advising clients in that sector or working on those types of matters. The key part is to make sure that it is personal to you and your ambitions, rather than just analysing the article.

For your third question, yes, where it feels natural. Not every answer needs to end with "and that's why I've applied to DLA Piper", but if you can make a genuine link back to the firm, it generally strengthens your application. For example, in question 2, that is an opportunity to explain why that sector interests you and why DLA's expertise in it makes the firm an attractive place to train. For question 1, I would keep the focus primarily on your own journey, but if your career ambitions align with something DLA offers, it could be worth mentioning it briefly.

I hope that assists, and best of luck with your application!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Can who you get sat next to in an exit dinner be an indicator for if you are likely to get a TC/ impressed the firm so far in your VS?

Hey!

Personally, I would try not to read too much into it. In many cases, the seating plan will have been arranged before the vacation scheme even started, so it is unlikely to reflect how you have performed during the week.

Even if there is some thought behind who sits where, I don't think it is something you can reliably use to gauge your chances of receiving a TC. I would try not to spend too much time analysing it.

Instead, I would treat it as another opportunity to have a good conversation, ask thoughtful questions, and leave a positive final impression. Your overall performance throughout the vacation scheme is going to matter far more than who you happen to be sat next to at dinner.

Best of luck!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi everyone! I am new here. I am originally from India and will be joining the LLM at LSE this autumn. This group has already been incredibly helpful in giving me a broad overview of how the commercial law recruitment landscape works, so thank you all.

I was hoping someone could help me with a few questions, since I am still new to the UK recruitment process

During my five years of law school in India, most of my experience has been in public policy and technology law. I have worked extensively on research and policy projects (alongside a few law firm internships), so my profile isn't what you would typically describe as "commercial law" focused. However, I am keen to pursue vacation schemes with the long-term goal of qualifying and working in the UK.

I had a few questions:

1. Does having a predominantly non-commercial law background put candidates at a significant disadvantage when applying for vacation schemes? Do firms generally hesitate to recruit applicants whose experience is primarily in policy, research, or the public sector?
2. How common is it for international LLM students to secure vacation schemes and ultimately training contracts? Is the recruitment landscape noticeably more geared towards undergraduate law students, or are LLM students viewed similarly by firms?
3. Given my background, is there anything in particular you think I should be doing over the next few months to strengthen my applications?

Finally, are there any questions you think I should be asking at this stage that I am perhaps overlooking?

I'd really appreciate any advice or perspectives. Thank you!

Hi!

Firstly, welcome to TCLA, and congratulations on your place at LSE!

I definitely don't think having a predominantly non-commercial background puts you at a significant disadvantage. Firms recruit people from a huge range of backgrounds, and experience in policy, research, and technology law can actually be a real strength, particularly if you can explain the transferable skills you have developed and, more importantly, why those experiences have led you to pursue commercial law.

In terms of LLM students, it is not uncommon for them to secure vacation schemes and training contracts! Firms recruit candidates at lots of different stages, so I wouldn't worry about being an LLM student in itself. Whilst I can only speak from the vacation schemes I completed, there were definitely a significant portion of candidates who had already graduate and were working or in further study.

Over the next few months, I would focus on building your understanding of commercial law and the business world. This includes following commercial news, thinking about how developments affect businesses and the legal advice they need, and starting to refine your answers to the key motivational questions, such as "why commercial law", "why this firm" and "why you". Given your background, you'll want to be able to clearly explain why you have decided to move from policy work into commercial law, and how your previous experiences have led you to that decision. It might also be worth thinking about your application strategy, especially if there are important considerations or features that you are looking for in a firm.

Overall, I think you have a really interesting profile! The key part will be presenting it as a coherent story that explains not only what you have done, but why those experiences have led you to want to become a commercial solicitor.

Best of luck with your applications, and please feel free to ask any further questions as you start the next application cycle!

 

[Reehan23@]

Hi Abbie,


I hope you're well.


I was wondering if you could offer any advice on how best to prepare for the case study exercise at the PwC Assessment Centre.


In particular, I would be grateful to know:

• What the assessors are looking for in a strong response.
• How I should structure my analysis and recommendations.
• Whether the case study focuses more on legal analysis, commercial awareness, or a combination of both.
• Any common mistakes that candidates should avoid.
• Any resources or preparation tips you would recommend.

I appreciate that you may not be able to share specific details about the assessment itself, but any general guidance on how to prepare would be extremely helpful.


Thank you very much for your time and support. I really appreciate it.


Kind regards,


Reehan Acharya

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi Abbie,


I hope you're well.


I was wondering if you could offer any advice on how best to prepare for the case study exercise at the PwC Assessment Centre.


In particular, I would be grateful to know:

• What the assessors are looking for in a strong response.
• How I should structure my analysis and recommendations.
• Whether the case study focuses more on legal analysis, commercial awareness, or a combination of both.
• Any common mistakes that candidates should avoid.
• Any resources or preparation tips you would recommend.

I appreciate that you may not be able to share specific details about the assessment itself, but any general guidance on how to prepare would be extremely helpful.


Thank you very much for your time and support. I really appreciate it.


Kind regards,


Reehan Acharya

Hey!

Congratulations on getting through to the AC!

I haven't been through PwC's assessment process myself, so I can't comment on the specifics of their case study.

More generally though, I would expect assessors to be looking less for the "right" answer and more for how you analyse information, prioritise issues and justify your recommendations. If you are given a lot of information, I would focus on identifying the key facts and issues, rather than trying to mention everything. I would also make sure every recommendation is supported by evidence from the case, and explain why you have reached that conclusion.

In terms of commercial awareness versus legal analysis, I would probably expect it to be a combination of both, but with a greater emphasis on commercial thinking. That means that rather than just identifying the legal issue, I would think about the wider implications for the client, the commercial objectives they are trying to achieve, and any practical risks or trade-offs. It also helps to consider how it might impact the firm too, especially if their clients work in a specific sector that is affected.

I would generally avoid jumping to a conclusion too quickly as well, and make sure that you take the time to understand what the client is actually trying to achieve before deciding on a recommendation. It is also worth acknowledging and highlighting any assumptions you have made or any additional information you would want before giving definitive advice, as it shows the interviewer/assessor how you have reached that recommendation.

If you haven't already, I would recommend looking through PwC's website and thinking about the types of clients they advise, the industries they are strongest in, and any recent deals or developments that they are involved in. You don't need to memorise them, but having a feel for the firm's work can help you approach the exercise in a more commercial and tailored way.

I have also previously shared some resources that I found useful when preparing for case study exercises - I have quoted a post below.

Best of luck with the AC!

Hello!

I used this resource from Jacob Miller when preparing for case studies last cycle, and I found it super useful - it might be a good starting point!

Best of luck

 

[maybe101]

Has anyone heard from Fladgate post vacation scheme ?

 

[Legaluser_332]

Has anyone heard from Bevan Brittan post VS?

 

[helenaskelton]

Hey guys, did anyone get a call from Kingsley Napley post final interview?

 

[greentree]

@Abbie Whitlock Last-minute pre-AC question:

how in depth would you suggest to answer a 'Why Firm' question in an interview at a DTC? Is this the time to go super specific and talk about a specific case or focus on one specific practice/sector, or can you just kind of treat it as any other 'Why Firm' application answer?

Not sure if there are different things to focus on given that it is for a DTC interview. Thanks!!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

@Abbie Whitlock Last-minute pre-AC question:

how in depth would you suggest to answer a 'Why Firm' question in an interview at a DTC? Is this the time to go super specific and talk about a specific case or focus on one specific practice/sector, or can you just kind of treat it as any other 'Why Firm' application answer?

Not sure if there are different things to focus on given that it is for a DTC interview. Thanks!!

Hi!

I would treat it similarly to a strong application answer or VS answer, but I'd use the interview as an opportunity to go into a bit more detail where appropriate.

You don't necessarily need to spend lots of time discussing one deal or one practice area. Instead, I'd focus on having 3-4 well-developed reasons for applying to the firm (e.g. its training, culture, sector strengths, international platform, client base, etc.) and be able to explain why those things genuinely appeal to you.

However, having one or two specific examples (such as a recent deal, client, initiative, or practice area) is definitely helpful, as it shows you have gone beyond the website. I'd just make sure you can explain why it is relevant to your application, rather than mentioning it for the sake of being specific.

For the DTC process, I would also say that what matters more than knowing lots of information about the firm's deals is being able to relate your motivations back to yourself. For every point you make (e.g. particular deal, practice area, training, or sector), be prepared to explain why it appeals to you by linking it back to your own experiences, interests or future career goals. Interviewers are often more interested in the reasoning behind your points, particularly on the DTC route where you need to show certainty in your decision (+ the steps you have taken to confirm that interest). That personal connection is what will make your answers more convincing and memorable.

Wishing you the best of luck with your AC - I'm sure you'll smash it!

 

[M85672]

Hi,

So I've completed two vacation schemes, to no avail unfortunately.

For next cycle, is there still a point in applying for vacs or am I better off applying for DTC? I was initially inclined to apply DTC but if the turnover is the same as vacs if not longer then I don't really see the point

 

[174Tess9y3]

Hi! Does anyone know what Gibson Dunn's application questions were last year? trying to make an initial draft but can't find anything

 

[Z48]

Hi! Does anyone know what Gibson Dunn's application questions were last year? trying to make an initial draft but can't find anything

It was just a cover letter, this was the prompt:

Please write a cover letter. You should include some of the following areas: what attracts you to Gibson Dunn; why you want to become a solicitor; an outstanding personal achievement which added value to either your academic or working environment; details of any prizes, scholarships, interests, positions of responsibility and any other noteworthy achievements that will support your application. Please note, this does not need to be addressed to any individual.

 

[TheHamlet4]

Is there a place I can see the open day dates and applications for firms?

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hey!

I would say, generally speaking, it is more 'attainable' to get a vacation scheme rather than a VS. Most firms recruit the majority of their trainees through the vacation scheme, so there are often significantly more TC places available via that route than through direct TCs.

Of course, as you mentioned, it varies by firm - some recruit almost exclusively through their vacation schemes, while others still have a sizeable direct TC intake. It is always worth checking each firm's recruitment page to see how they allocate places (or we have a thread on this here, which may be slightly outdated but is a good reference point). Even with firms that don't have a sizeable DTC intake, there is still no reason why you can't apply for those either.

If you are eligible for vacation schemes, I would definitely prioritise those where possible. They typically give you more opportunities to secure a TC, and also let you experience the firm firsthand and assess whether it is the right fit for you

My current visa allows me only do Winter Schemes, although the options are fewer than Summer VCs, I feel like I can do targeted 10 apps. I am also planning to join Open Days as well, so overall I am more hopeful thanks to your response!

 

[Futuretrainee002]

My current visa allows me only do Winter Schemes, although the options are fewer than Summer VCs, I feel like I can do targeted 10 apps. I am also planning to join Open Days as well, so overall I am more hopeful thanks to your response!

How’s that? I thought all international students are ineligible from doing winter vac schemes because they occur during term time, normally its the other way around with vac schemes.

 

[TheHamlet4]

How’s that? I thought all international students are ineligible from doing winter vac schemes because they occur during term time, normally its the other way around with vac schemes.

I am on a graduate visa, I finished my non-law master's a while ago and have been working since.

 

[Miss Elli]

I’ve done that this February and did not pass… the test is so hard but I don’t remember doing and excel one

Hi! Did you do the attention to detail test in-person?

 

[M85672]

Is it too late to expect to hear back from WFW for an AC following DTC application? Haven't been following so idk if any have gone out yet etc.

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi,

So I've completed two vacation schemes, to no avail unfortunately.

For next cycle, is there still a point in applying for vacs or am I better off applying for DTC? I was initially inclined to apply DTC but if the turnover is the same as vacs if not longer then I don't really see the point

Hi!

I was actually in a very similar position last cycle - I completed three vacation schemes and unfortunately didn't convert any of them, but I did end up securing a DTC offer later in the same cycle that I thought I had zero chance at.

I think it is worth reflecting on where your strengths lies in the recruitment process. If you generally perform well in assessment centres (e.g. interviews, case studies, group exercises, written tasks, etc.), then DTC applications could be a great option as they are ultimately the deciding factor in those processes.

On the other hand, if you feel you come across much better once you are actually in the firm and have a chance to build relationships over a few weeks, I'd definitely still apply for vacation schemes. Sometimes not converting a VS comes down to fit or circumstances out of your control rather than your overall potential, so I wouldn't let any unsuccessful schemes put you off completely.

There is also nothing stopping you from doing a mixture of both if the firm's you are interested in offer both routes, and you could decide whether to pursue the VS or DTC process based on the assessments involved. That way you are giving yourself multiple opportunities rather than relying on one recruitment pathway.

Best of luck with the next cycle!