TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[OS23]

Hi everyone!

I have attended a firm's virtual info session where I had the chance to ask a quick question to one of their trainees but have further things id like to ask them. Id like to reach out to them on LinkedIn but I am unsure whether I should just thank them and ask my questions straight away or ask them if they have time for a coffee and have an in-person chat!

Any advice is greatly appreciated!

 

[amitonalfo]

On a candid form, is it worth putting a travel break (5 months solo travelling) briefly in the work experience section? Just thinking whether thats better than having a big gap between roles

 

[alanshore]

So are we supposed to relate our work experiences to the firm

I don't think so. AFAIK, they've changed it this year, so maybe they ask questions at a later stage?

 

[tc26]

does anyone know what's the percentage of trainees recruited via DTC for Gibson Dunn. is it worth applying DTC?

 

[jamsparkle]

I think they’re just pushing the scheme and sent it generally wouldn’t read into it

i thought it was quite strange... because they're framing it as some sort of exclusive opportunity to get 'complimentary' access to the virtual vac scheme but i thought it was free and open-access anyway?

 

[anon78365222111]

i thought it was quite strange... because they're framing it as some sort of exclusive opportunity to get 'complimentary' access to the virtual vac scheme but i thought it was free and open-access anyway?

yeah I get you did come across that way

 

[jchhl]

hi everyone! was doing my first cycle of vac scheme applications after reverting away from the bar! was interested in Gibson Dunn and was hoping if anyone who was sucessful to a vs could PM me? xxxxx {cannot provide a recipricol insight for anything atm bc first cycle}

 

[FutureAntitrustLawyer]

Does anyone know what percentage of trainees are recruited from Freshfields VS v. DTC? Still unsure of whether to apply for the SVS or DTC

 

[Lon123]

Hello!

I was wondering if anyone had more information Freshfields stage 1 online assesment from this or previous years.

I can offer information on Macfarlanes, Latham & Watkins, and A&O Shearman.