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?

 

[Abbie Whitlock]

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?

Hi!

Yes, I actually know people in my cohort who secured TCs directly without having done a VS or worked as a paralegal beforehand, and they were successful through the DTC route. Therefore, I don't think it is a waste of time to apply!

However, I think it can vary between firms. Some firms may expect applicants to have some form of legal experience, even if that isn't necessarily a formal VS or paralegal role, whereas others will be much more focused on your overall experiences, motivation and performance throughout the application process. I would read the eligibility requirements carefully, and have a look at what each firm expects from applicants.

Given your visa restrictions, I think it makes complete sense to target firms with sizeable DTC intakes rather than automatically ruling yourself out because you haven't had the opportunity to do a VS. I would also make sure you are highlighting any experiences you do have that demonstrate relevant skills and your interest in commercial law, even if they aren't specifically legal.

So yes, it is definitely possible, and I wouldn't let the lack of VS or paralegal experience put you off applying at all!