TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2026-27

[itsfearless15]

Anyone who got Freshfields stage 2 invitation, how did your stage 1 assessment feedback report look like? Any particular weaknesses or strengths?

 

[Hopeful applicant]

Is the freshfields application

Anyone who got Freshfields stage 2 invitation, how did your stage 1 assessment feedback report look like? Any particular weaknesses or strengths?

structured differently than last year? I think I remember there being a capfinity test that included video interviews. Or do you mean that stage two is the AC?

 

[Lovelaw77]

Hey everyone, I was just wondering if anyone had any tips for HLC WVS first stage assessment?

 

[itsfearless15]

Is the freshfields application

structured differently than last year? I think I remember there being a capfinity test that included video interviews. Or do you mean that stage two is the AC?

I think it might be different than last year? I'm not sure though! But it seems like there is a stage 2 test that is called that and includes VI, which is conditional on passing stage 1 (which is the general SJT/Critical reasoning test) - was just curious to know what qualities might be limiting for getting forward to stage 2 if anyone did receive an invitation to that stage

 

[BM99]

Does anyone know or have an idea about the benchmark for A&O's online assessment? (The number of excels/potentials etc.)?

 

[rose06]

Anyone who got Freshfields stage 2 invitation, how did your stage 1 assessment feedback report look like? Any particular weaknesses or strengths?

I had in strengths thriving under pressure, embracing transformation, and championing clients. In weaknesses - challenging myself and delivering extraordinary outcomes. But ultimately, I think all the 11 competencies are weighted equally, and it's about your overall score. So, even your 'weaknesses' might actually be really high scores if you did well overall.

 

[e.jy336]

Has anyone heard from HLC or Sidley post tests?

 

[QuillandCounsel]

On my profile for DLA Piper it says "Please complete all your assessments" but I never got an email for the test. What does this mean?

 

[Antoni Trochimowicz]

Having researched Winston Taylor, identify one specific aspect of our work, culture, or approach that sets us apart from other firms and explain, with reference to your own values or career ambitions, why this resonates with you.
Max 500 words

@Antoni Trochimowicz how would you recommend structuring this answer given the word count is 500 words.

Hi! I think this is quite a generous word count, honestly maybe a little too much so.

I would probably do something along the lines:

• Paragraph 1:
  • Explanation of the aspect you picked
  • This would likely be around 70-120 words
  • You would include what it is, a piece of evidence (whether anecdotal or a plain fact) and its overall place in the firm
• Paragraph 2,3, 4
  • Then the rest of the paragraphs would follow a clear, similar format.
    • A point about your values/aspirations:
      • This resonates with me because I am x
    • This is then followed by some evidence of that value, most likely through an anecdote
    • Then, you can link that back to the original firm point.
  • I would repeat this 2-3 times depending on word count.

Hopefully this helps

 

[Antoni Trochimowicz]

i've done 4 VS last cycle, didn't convert unforuatntely, should i apply to vac schemes or just direct tc? thank you!

Hi! This is honestly personal preference. If a firm hires adequately from DTC, there is no harm in applying in that route. That is usually recommended for those with experience (which you have). Wishing you the best of luck!