TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[ufdj]

Didn’t convert my summer vac scheme :’) But back and ready for the new cycle!!! Let’s do it..

In the same position as you we've got this!!

 

[TCGrad1642]

In the same position as you we've got this!!

Me also - it’s exhausting but just need to keep on trooping!

 

[DaemonBlackFyre]

To those who are future trainees or have reached a vac scheme, what things have you done within the applciation process that you believe enabled you to stand out.

To put it another way, when it came to each stage of the process, what things did you do that you believe most candidates arn't doing?

 

[DaemonBlackFyre]

Question for those who made it to an AC who didn't convert, or a vac scheme who didn't convert, what things have you reflected on that you could've done better?

 

[cs3008]

BCLP DTC PFO!

 

[Legal12345]

Found out today I didn’t convert my vac scheme. Does anyone have any advice for going forward / tips for next steps? I have just finished university and am about to start the law conversion for context.

 

[AS24]

Is anyone taking part in the aspiring solicitors commercial awareness competition? If so, would love to create a support group.

 

[sagekensuke]

STB 12th August Open Day!

 

[futuretrainee101ac]

BCLP DTC PFO!

Sorry to hear this! Wishing you all the best in the upcoming cycle - please may I ask after what stage you received this outcome

 

[174Tess9y3]

Does anyone have any advice on preparing for case studies?

 

[applepeach]

A&O Open day acceptance feels good after being rejected last time lol

 

[cs3008]

Sorry to hear this! Wishing you all the best in the upcoming cycle - please may I ask after what stage you received this outcome

I finished the online test and after a month or two I received this email.

 

[cs3008]

A&O Open day acceptance feels good after being rejected last time lol

Even I got the acceptance for 12th August!!! Happy to connect.

 

[Topdog0073]

STB 12th August Open Day!

Out of interest, how soon after it opened did you apply? I haven’t heard yet and the person I know who got it applied on the day it opened.

 

[adfs456]

Me also - it’s exhausting but just need to keep on trooping!

Same here Hopefully this cycle is the one!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Does anyone have any advice on preparing for case studies?

Hi!

I have previously written a few posts on preparing for case study exercises - I have quoted them below! Just shout if you have any further questions, and best of luck!

Hi @LegallyBrunette_ !

Huge congratulations on being invited to AC - what a fantastic achievement!

In the AC that I completed for my TC, I had to complete both a group exercise and a case study interview, so I can understand wanting to do all you can to prepare in advance. I can share what worked best for me!

Group Exercise

• In the group exercise, they are typically looking at how you work with others, not just what you contribute. Be collaborative, listen actively, and build on other people's points.
• Aim to contribute regularly but avoid dominating - asking others for their views on a topic can show leadership without being overbearing. I would always aim to not be the loudest or the quietest in the room, although I know finding this balance can be quite tricky!
• Keep the group focused on the task! I would always try and keep track of your progress and summarise the key decisions made as you go along.
• If you have to select an idea, don't worry if yours isn't chosen. What matters is how you respond and whether you support the group's direction.

Case Study Interview

• You'll usually be given a business / legal scenario with background documents. I would start by reading quickly to understand the big picture, and then go back to confirm the smaller details.
• Structure your response clearly - identify the client's goals, outline the key issues, and suggest practical next steps.
• They won't expect you to know black-letter law. Focus on logic, prioritisation, and showing that you can think commercially.
• Talk the interviewer through your thought process - even if you get stuck or seem confused, they can see how you reason.
• If given a contract to assess, make a note of the exceptions and calculations in the contract. You might be asked how your stance would change if X event occurred, and it's useful to be mindful of when it might fall under any exceptions.

I would also brush up on Jones Day's structure (e.g. their non-rotational training system and international work) just in case it comes up. They're assessing potential, not perfection - so as long as you stay calm and do your best, you'll be fine.

At the end of the day, they want to see the real you - someone who can think clearly, work well with others, and stay composed under pressure. If you go in with a collaborative mindset and a clear structure for approaching problems, you'll put yourself in a strong position.

Best of luck - you've already done the hard part by getting to this stage!

Hello!

Congratulations on the AC invite!!

The main resource that I used when preparing for a case study interview was this guide by Jacob Miller - I would definitely take a look! There is also a guide to Private Equity that is useful for understanding how a PE transaction is structured -you can find that here.

I have also quoted some more general posts I have made in relation to approaching case study exercises, so hopefully they are helpful too.

Best of luck!!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Found out today I didn’t convert my vac scheme. Does anyone have any advice for going forward / tips for next steps? I have just finished university and am about to start the law conversion for context.

Hi

I am really sorry to hear that - I know it is disappointing, especially after putting so much into the vac scheme.

If it is any reassurance, I was in a similar position last cycle. I completed a few vacation schemes but didn't convert any of them into TCs, but I ended up applying to my firm through the direct TC route afterwards and was successful. Not converting a vac scheme definitely doesn't mean the end of the road (although I can appreciate it doesn't always feel that way in the moment).

One thing I would really recommend is requesting feedback if the firm offers it. Even if it is quite high level, it can help you identify areas to work on before your next applications or interviews. It's really important to highlight the areas that still need improvement and work on those directly - whilst I was never asked during the DTC process about not converting my vac schemes, I was prepared to explain how I had taken on the previous feedback and improved, as this is what they'll want to hear if they ever ask (as they can appreciate that non-conversion doesn't mean you aren't capable).

As you are about to start the law conversion, I would also see that as a great opportunity. You'll have another year to strengthen your applications, build your commercial awareness, attend firm events, and refine your interview technique. I'd also consider applying to a mix of vacation schemes and direct TCs as well, as it can open up more opportunities. Your vacation scheme might have also shaped your motivations in a clearer way, which can allow you to have a more focused strategy when it comes to applying.

Most importantly, try not to let one outcome knock your confidence. Resilience and perseverance is half of the battle in these processes, and it is important to make sure you keep going and learn/improve along the way. Getting onto a vacation scheme is an incredible achievement in itself, and you have already shown you can get through a competitive process.

Wishing you all the best with the law conversion and the next application cycle!

 

[TCchaser]

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

How do I approach an application for a firm that's recently merged, like Winston Taylor? It's only been a few months, so I feel like there would be fewer things to mention?

Thank you!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

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

How do I approach an application for a firm that's recently merged, like Winston Taylor? It's only been a few months, so I feel like there would be fewer things to mention?

Thank you!

Hi!

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

I wouldn't worry too much about the merger being recent, and it could actually be a good opportunity to show that you have done your research!

I would approach it by looking at three things:

• The combined firm's strategy and what the merger is trying to achieve (e.g. expanded geographic reach, complementary practice areas, sector strengths, etc.)
• The legacy firms individually - the merger doesn't erase their history, so it is absolutely fine to reference things like notable deals, sector expertise, culture or initiatives that have carried across into the new firm
• Anything that has happened since the merger, such as new client wins, integration plans, leadership commentary, or strategy priorities

You don't need to force your answer to be entirely merger-focused and ignore the history of the firms. The key part is showing that you understand where the firm is heading and why that aligns with your interests. If the merger is central to your motivation, I would definitely mention it, but I would make sure you include broader reasons about why you are attracted to the firm's work and culture.

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