TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[WillKitchen]

It was my first time today, had no idea what I was doing. Should have taken a day to prepare but I have a few other assessments/apps today so rushed it. Definitely some waffling in there

Don't worry too much. Just treat it as practice. Most people take a cycle or two to get used to the process. Everyone is in the same boat, at least!

 

[WillKitchen]

congrats will! i was just wondering in the intiial application form - did you have to upload a cv as well as fill in the work exp section i cant quite work it out

No, I didn't upload a separate CV. Some smaller firms ask for that, but the big ones have a pretty standardised online form.

 

[rrr]

I think dentons is I think Freshfields they just see if you have basic requirements then send it then when handing AC’s they see the whole application

ugh firms need to start considering applicant's mental health...

 

[Narod]

Hi everyone,

I’m happy to share information on the Dechert and Macfarlanes Stage 2 assessment, including the written exercise and video assessment, in exchange for any insight into the video interview questions recently asked for:

• Freshfields
• Latham & Watkins

Ideally, I'm looking for the questions from the current 2026/27 application cycle.

Feel free to DM me. Thanks!

 

[rose06]

can someone pls tell me if latham require a cv submitted

No need to upload it, don't worry

 

[MZJxLadha]

Surprised to see HLC job sim invite, given the feedback for the SJT said I need to work on my adaptability

 

[rrr]

Surprised to see HLC job sim invite, given the feedback for the SJT said I need to work on my adaptability

atp the firms just be saying anything in the feedback. i think the areas you 'need to work on' might be your lowest score, but that doesn't necessarily mean you scored considerably low on them

 

[MZJxLadha]

atp the firms just be saying anything in the feedback. i think the areas you 'need to work on' might be your lowest score, but that doesn't necessarily mean you scored considerably low on them

I actually can’t stand these tests they just feel so random

 

[supernovna]

Is it odd I haven't received the HLC SJT? I applied for the Spring VS on 14 September.

atp the firms just be saying anything in the feedback. i think the areas you 'need to work on' might be your lowest score, but that doesn't necessarily mean you scored considerably low on them

 

[MZJxLadha]

Is it odd I haven't received the HLC SJT? I applied for the Spring VS on 14 September.

This was for WVS so I’m not sure about the SVS but it’s supposed to be automatic

 

[KH7192]

Same here, I think it's a PFO sadly

 

[elizabethkate]

The most tiring thing are constant tests, it is such a drag especially tests before they even review. Like I’m investing an hour or 90 mins in something that won’t be seen if they don’t like my application or grades

part of me prefers it to writing nonsense paragraphs that serve no purpose if everyone is using AI.

 

[elizabethkate]

has anyone heard back for HLC open day on the 26th Oct?

 

[alanshore]

Has anyone received any update for Dentons ME vac scheme?

 

[Trainingcontractinho123]

Applied to Sidley WVS Sept 1st - still no online assessment. Shall I assume a rejection?

Same here weirdly

 

[trainingcontracttbd]

Does anyone have any insights on FF's Stage 2 assessment? Willing to trade!

 

[lloy291]

I have a Jones Day interview next week - does anyone else have one/done one?

Can I ask how long between initially applying and receiving interview email?

 

[sservice]

Has anyone done the Mayer Brown OA and VI?

Willing to trade with FF stage 2 and Macfarlanes VI.

 

[Lawstoodent]

Can I ask how long between initially applying and receiving interview email?

around 2 days

 

[TortillaTC]

Applied to HLC winter vac scheme on 15 September and no 1st stage test so far - is it automatic as in sent to everyone who meets the eligibility criteria, or they filter people out on a basic level (eg if they don’t like their profile)?