TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[Abbie Whitlock]

when you are doing a vi that involves a case study are you epxected to memorise figures and maintain eye contact or it it okay to refer to a note you made?

Hey!

This might differ between firms, so I would always check any instructions that they provide before the VI, but I wouldn't worry about memorising every single figure from the case study. If you are given time to make notes, I think it is absolutely fine to jot down key figures, facts or points that you want to refer back to during the VI.

I would just try to avoid having a full script and reading from it, as that can make your delivery feel less natural. For the figures, I would focus on remembering the key ones that are particularly relevant to your analysis, but there is nothing wrong with briefly looking down at your notes to check a number.

For eye contact, I would aim to look at the camera for the majority of your answer, but I don't think you need to maintain constant eye contact. Briefly looking at your notes to make sure you have a figure right is completely nature. I would prioritise giving a clear and well-structured answer over trying to appear perfectly polished or rehearsed!

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Just attended a firm's webinar on Vac Scheme applications and they really emphasised the importance of a 2.1 across all modules. I have graduated with a 1st and got all 2.1s and above, but got a 55% in my very first exam in first year. Will this put me at disadvantage me in applications for magic and silver circles law firms? :\\

Hi!

If all of your module grades are 2:1s or above, and the 55% was simply one exam that formed part of a module, I really wouldn't worry too much about this. Most firms asking for a 2:1 across modules will be looking at your overall module grades, rather than individual exam marks, so I think it is unlikely that one 55% exam would disadvantage you (as they are unlikely to find out about it!).

If you mean that the 55% was your overall grade for one particular module, then it may depend slightly on how strictly the individual firm applies its criteria. Some firms may interpret "2:1 across all modules" quite literally, whereas others may take a more holistic view of your academic record.

However, as you have a First overall and 2:1s or above across your other modules, I definitely wouldn't let this put you off applying to MC/SC firms! If you meet the stated requirements, I would apply and let the firm make the decision rather than automatically ruling yourself out

 

[pdfo]

Just attended a firm's webinar on Vac Scheme applications and they really emphasised the importance of a 2.1 across all modules. I have graduated with a 1st and got all 2.1s and above, but got a 55% in my very first exam in first year. Will this put me at disadvantage me in applications for magic and silver circles law firms? :\\

Hi, I am the exact same - graduated with a first (all modules 1st or 2:1 but one exam in first year was 53%) and in my final year I got a TC with A&O - so nothing to worry about - hope this helps!

 

[1136PX0]

Hi, I am the exact same - graduated with a first (all modules 1st or 2:1 but one exam in first year was 53%) and in my final year I got a TC with A&O - so nothing to worry about - hope this helps!

So you didn't have any modules below 2:1?

 

[pdfo]

So you didn't have any modules below 2:1?

one module in first year (the 53% was the whole module grade not exam sorry for confusion)

 

[1136PX0]

one module in first year (the 53% was the whole module grade not exam sorry for confusion)

Oh I see. Pretty annoying requirement to have though tbh

 

[pdfo]

Oh I see. Pretty annoying requirement to have though tbh

Yeah I agree - but they clearly don't actually follow through with it, so that's something (at HSFK open days even they said they weren't completely strict on it)

 

[TheHamlet4]

All these 2:1 talk made me think how they would assess my modules — I took around 50 courses during uni and the grading system was a letter based…

 

[RowdtoTC2026]

I think i just bombed the Macfarlanes second stage but whatever.

 

[lp770]

Heyy, has anyone done the a&o VI and can share the questions?

 

[user55998384]

what weakenesses did ppl get for macs stage 1?

 

[wrpark]

Hey guys! I have a question about entering predicted degree classifications - I'm currently studying a non-law degree and averaging at around 67% overall which is traditionally a 2:1, but my course department uses a different system to calculate degree awards in which case I can be "on-track" for a First despite having a 67% average. In this case, would putting 2:1 or a First as my predicted grade make more sense on applications?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

Hey guys! I have a question about entering predicted degree classifications - I'm currently studying a non-law degree and averaging at around 67% overall which is traditionally a 2:1, but my course department uses a different system to calculate degree awards in which case I can be "on-track" for a First despite having a 67% average. In this case, would putting 2:1 or a First as my predicted grade make more sense on applications?

Hey!

I think the most important thing is to use the classification that you are actually on track to be awarded under your university's classification system, rather than simply converting your average using the standard thresholds.

So, if your department's official system means that your average puts you on track for a First, I would be comfortable putting First as your predicted classification. You are not claiming that 67% is normally a First, but instead stating the classification you are currently on track to receive under your university's own rules.

If there is an opportunity to provide additional information, you could also briefly explain that your university uses a different classification methodology. That should make the position clear to the recruiter, and clear up any potential confusion!