TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[DaemonBlackFyre]

Hi,

I just wanted to ask, when writing about your work experiences, if you have done multiple things of significance within the role, how do you fit this in within the wider structure of your answer i.e the skills you gained and how they are transferable to a career in Law.

Thanks.

 

[Dlakhs]

A*AC and vacation schemes: should I resit an A-level?

Hi everyone,

I’m looking for some advice on how my A-level grades might affect my chances of getting vacation schemes at top UK/US commercial law firms.

I achieved:

• Maths: A*
• Economics: A
• Physics: C

I have no mitigating circumstances for the C.

I’m planning to study Economics at the University of Southampton, and my current plan is to pursue a law conversion afterwards. My long-term goal is commercial law, particularly top UK/US firms in London.

I’ve noticed that some firms have explicit A-level requirements, often AAB or equivalent, while others don't seem to have a published A-level requirement. I’m particularly concerned about firms that use A-level grades as an eligibility filter for vacation schemes.

My question is: How much would the C actually affect my applications? If I achieve a First at Southampton and then do well in my law conversion, would firms still care significantly about the A-level C?

I also have the option of resitting Physics. However, this would obviously involve another year and there is no guarantee I would improve the grade substantially.

Would you recommend that I resit Physics specifically to improve my prospects for commercial law vacation schemes, or would you just move on and focus on getting a First and strong legal work experience?

I’d particularly appreciate answers from current trainees, solicitors, or people who have been through vacation-scheme recruitment at City/US firms.

Thanks!

 

[anon78365222111]

How would I answer a question that asks, what sector do you see the most growth for our firm in the next 12 months and why/how? Thank you!

 

[lawstudent2]

Hey!

I definitely wouldn't turn down a good job purely out of fear that it will hurt your TC applications (as it is unlikely to!). If anything, a legal recruiting role could give you some useful insight into the legal profession, law firms and the recruitment processes, and you will also be developing transferable skills that you can talk about in applications or interviews.

I would also be wary of holding out indefinitely for a paralegal role when the market is so competitive right now. If the recruiting job is at your ideal location, pays well, and gives you the flexibility to continue applying, it sounds like a pretty good option! You could always keep applying for paralegal roles alongside it if something comes up.

Ultimately, firms care much more about what you have actually done and what you have learned from it than whether your job title is "paralegal". I'd just make sure you continue getting some legal exposure where possible (e.g. open days, insight events, etc.) and use your recruiting experience to demonstrate relevant skills and commercial awareness.

Generally, having a job while reapplying is probably preferable to sitting around waiting for the ideal paralegal role. I would take the job if you like it and let the TC applications remain the priority alongside it

Thank you so much for responding, that is very helpful!

 

[Winter]

Anyone in AS Aspire can you inbox me?

 

[e.jy336]

For anyone who's had interviews at firms specialising in PE, how technical are some of the questions? Wondering how in-depth they expect your knowledge of PE deals/structure to be