TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[TCchaser]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, I hope you're doing well!

I recognise that this has been asked many times on TCLA, but I'm really worried and would like some advice (and anyone else with any perspective on this).

I've received my 2nd year module grades back, and I achieved 1sts and 2.1s in all of them apart from 2 modules (getting 1 2.2 and 1 3rd). My average in both 1st and 2nd years is 65% (with my 2nd-year average dragged down by 2 poorer modules, and all of my 1st-year modules being 2.1). I don't have any disclosed mitigating circumstances.

Do I still have a good chance at applying for most firms? I understand that firms like Slaughters scrutinise individual module grades, but would I still be eligible to apply for the vast majority of them? I understand that firms consider MCs, but as I don't have any, I'm worried that there's no way to contextualise the blips in my results.

I know that this post has been made often, but my lack of MCs and poorer grades are really concerning me. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock, I hope you're doing well!

I recognise that this has been asked many times on TCLA, but I'm really worried and would like some advice (and anyone else with any perspective on this).

I've received my 2nd year module grades back, and I achieved 1sts and 2.1s in all of them apart from 2 modules (getting 1 2.2 and 1 3rd). My average in both 1st and 2nd years is 65% (with my 2nd-year average dragged down by 2 poorer modules, and all of my 1st-year modules being 2.1). I don't have any disclosed mitigating circumstances.

Do I still have a good chance at applying for most firms? I understand that firms like Slaughters scrutinise individual module grades, but would I still be eligible to apply for the vast majority of them? I understand that firms consider MCs, but as I don't have any, I'm worried that there's no way to contextualise the blips in my results.

I know that this post has been made often, but my lack of MCs and poorer grades are really concerning me. Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi!

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

No worries at all, and I completely understand why you are worried about this. However, based on what you have said, I personally wouldn't see this as something that rules you out from applying to most firms.

My understanding is that the vast majority of firms are mainly looking at whether you are on track for (or have achieved) an overall 2:1, rather than expecting a 2:1 in every individual module. From what you have said, your overall average across both years is still 65%, which is a solid 2:1 overall.

There are definitely some firms that scrutinise academics more heavily (and may look more closely at individual module performance or expect a 2:1 in every module), but I don't think a couple of lower module marks automatically become a barrier at the majority of firms.

I also wouldn't worry too much about not having mitigating circumstances. They can help contextualise grades where needed, but you don't necessarily need them if your overall academic profile still meets the firm's minimum requirement.

I would focus more on building a balanced application overall (e.g. experience, written answers, commercial awareness, etc.), rather than assuming the two modules will define your chances.

Wishing you the best of luck with applications!