TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[kojo1102]

Can Graduates apply for the A&O Shearman Winter VS?

 

[OliviaPope]

Can Graduates apply for the A&O Shearman Winter VS?

No, just direct TC

 

[jamsparkle]

is Linklaters not going to announce a winter VS this year...?

 

[Holiday7]

Does anyone know if Links is rolling this year? Their VAC scheme webpage is pretty light on detail.

 

[Meg_Thee_Applicant]

SUP B***tches MEG IS BACK
Question, I got ABB at a level (legit like 10 years ago lol) and have since then got 2.1 in undergrad, distinction in masters and 7 years of work experience. No specific mitigating circumstances for the ABB. Do you think it’s worth applying to firms that have criteria of AAB+? Thank you

 

[yasmars]

SUP B***tches MEG IS BACK
Question, I got ABB at a level (legit like 10 years ago lol) and have since then got 2.1 in undergrad, distinction in masters and 7 years of work experience. No specific mitigating circumstances for the ABB. Do you think it’s worth applying to firms that have criteria of AAB+? Thank you

My advice is to have a look at how the firm communicates its grade criteria. Some only let you apply if you have mitigating circumstances whereas others have a more holistic approach and may still encourage you to apply.

 

[PrayingforaTC2026]

Has anyone previously done NRF's VI for paralegal positions? Pls like this message if you have!

 

[Eudora]

Did anyone else find the Macfarlanes SJT really difficult this year? I did it last year as well and this year's one felt noticeably more technical.

 

[e.jy336]

Did anyone else find the Macfarlanes SJT really difficult this year? I did it last year as well and this year's one felt noticeably more technical.

Do you mean in terms of the VI questions?

 

[TheHamlet4]

is Linklaters not going to announce a winter VS this year...?

I emailed them, hope we will get an answer on that by the end of Tuesday.

 

[TheHamlet4]

Hi @Abbie Whitlock,

I know you have prior VS experience, though not with the firm you got your TC with. I was wondering, however, if you are familiar with people who got TCs directly without a VS?

Due to visa restrictions, I can only do WVS, which is why I am also planning to apply to firms with sizeable DTC intakes. Would you consider that a time waste since I don't have any VS or paralegal experience to fall back on?