TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[jacksollaf]

Reading these posts has made me think maybe I’m not good enough. I graduated in 2021 with an upper second class degree from an institute that is not an oxbridge or Russell group university.

This is my first time applying for these VS’s never mind a TC, and reason I did that was to get myself the experience of what it would be like working in a law firm, as I didn’t have that experience prior.

Don't be discouraged or think you're not good enough! Just take it easy and keep applying. For some reassurance, check this out: https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/where-to-start/newsletter/law-firms-preferred-universities

While it might seem that non-Russell Group universities represent a smaller percentage, this doesn't mean anything negative! First, many firms aren't exclusively picking from the very top universities like KCL, UCL, or Oxbridge. Instead, they're often recruiting from places like Manchester, Leeds, and York.

JUST TO CLARIFY: I’m NOT saying these universities are bad—far from it! What I mean is that law firms aren't always focused solely on the so-called "top" universities; your university is NOT a dealbreaker guaranteeing you a spot! The higher percentage of Russell Group representation simply reflects the larger number of applicants from those universities. Comparatively, there are fewer applicants from non-RG universities, which naturally affects the percentages. For instance, for Magic Circle firms, LSE, KCL and UCL are in 7th, 8th and 9th place, being surpassed by unis like Bristol, Nottingham, etc... So don't be discouraged, keep applying, and you will make it!! We're all in the same boat with you 🙏

 

[EA95]

Don't compare yourself! I graduated in 2021 to and its my first time applying to VS's or TC's, and I only have background in a criminal law firm unfortunately. People have received training contracts with less experience than either of us.

Thank you so much for the response. Hopefully it will turn out great for the both of us.

 

[EA95]

Don't be discouraged or think you're not good enough! Just take it easy and keep applying. For some reassurance, check this out: https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/where-to-start/newsletter/law-firms-preferred-universities

While it might seem that non-Russell Group universities represent a smaller percentage, this doesn't mean anything negative! First, many firms aren't exclusively picking from the very top universities like KCL, UCL, or Oxbridge. Instead, they're often recruiting from places like Manchester, Leeds, and York.

JUST TO CLARIFY: I’m NOT saying these universities are bad—far from it! What I mean is that law firms aren't always focused solely on the so-called "top" universities; your university is NOT a dealbreaker guaranteeing you a spot! The higher percentage of Russell Group representation simply reflects the larger number of applicants from those universities. Comparatively, there are fewer applicants from non-RG universities, which naturally affects the percentages. For instance, for Magic Circle firms, LSE, KCL and UCL are in 7th, 8th and 9th place, being surpassed by unis like Bristol, Birmingham, etc... So don't be discouraged, keep applying, and you will make it!! We're all in the same boat with you 🙏

Thank you for this, I really appreciate your message.

 

[yasmars]

Reading these posts has made me think maybe I’m not good enough. I graduated in 2021 with an upper second class degree from an institute that is not an oxbridge or Russell group university.

This is my first time applying for these VS’s never mind a TC, and reason I did that was to get myself the experience of what it would be like working in a law firm, as I didn’t have that experience prior.

I’ve progressed with quite a few firms this cycle (US/UK) and I’m from a non Russell group background. I also have average grades at both a level and GCSEs (without mitigating circs) with a 2:1 degree. Your educational background will not hold you back this cycle. But I would say to prioritise firms that have a more holistic way of assessing applicants.

 

[EA95]

I’ve progressed with quite a few firms this cycle (US/UK) and I’m from a non Russell group background. I also have average grades at both a level and GCSEs (without mitigating circs) with a 2:1 degree. Your educational background will not hold you back this cycle. But I would say to prioritise firms that have a more holistic way of assessing applicants.

Thank you for your response. That was one of the things I factored in when I was making my decision on which firms I would be applying to.

 

[asplawyer100]

Has anyone heard back from Mayer Brown after completing the trainee job simulation?

 

[Amiyrerose]

Good luck! Which office is this for if you don't mind me asking?

Thank you !! It’s for the London office

 

[Jessica Booker]

Hello, looking for advice from anyone who's experienced a similar problem or a grad rec member. I was re-reading some VS applications I sent in for this cycle and realised I made a mistake inputting one of my uni module grades (wrote 69% instead of 68%— although it does not affect my overall grade). I realise that this looks sloppy at best and ill-intended at worst but have decided nonetheless to email grad rec for each firm confessing my mistake so as to avoid any future complications. How likely am I to get rejected off the bat for such a mistake?

As it is one grade point off and most likely a typo (and only one mistake), I really don’t think this will be an issue.

If you are either at face to face interview stage or have an offer, then flag the discrepancy at the earliest opportunity, but if you are waiting to hear back on a decision on your application, I would just wait until the firm comes back to you and if you are invited to interview, then flag it to the recruitment team.

 

[cjwx]

just did the Trowers capp assessment. gosh was it long!

I found it dreadful honestly.

 

[lawstudent2]

For the freshfields application since we have a CV do we still need to fill out the work experience section on the vantage form? I feel like I'm just repeating myself but then idk if thats what they want, anyone know?

 

[Jessica Booker]

For the freshfields application since we have a CV do we still need to fill out the work experience section on the vantage form? I feel like I'm just repeating myself but then idk if thats what they want, anyone know?

The CV is not compulsory - I would definitely include the work experience section as it’s likely your CV won’t be read.

 

[lawstudent2]

The CV is not compulsory - I would definitely include the work experience section as it’s likely your CV won’t be read.

Thank you that's really helpful

 

[3000to1shoteverytime]

Don't be discouraged or think you're not good enough! Just take it easy and keep applying. For some reassurance, check this out: https://www.chambersstudent.co.uk/where-to-start/newsletter/law-firms-preferred-universities

While it might seem that non-Russell Group universities represent a smaller percentage, this doesn't mean anything negative! First, many firms aren't exclusively picking from the very top universities like KCL, UCL, or Oxbridge. Instead, they're often recruiting from places like Manchester, Leeds, and York.

JUST TO CLARIFY: I’m NOT saying these universities are bad—far from it! What I mean is that law firms aren't always focused solely on the so-called "top" universities; your university is NOT a dealbreaker guaranteeing you a spot! The higher percentage of Russell Group representation simply reflects the larger number of applicants from those universities. Comparatively, there are fewer applicants from non-RG universities, which naturally affects the percentages. For instance, for Magic Circle firms, LSE, KCL and UCL are in 7th, 8th and 9th place, being surpassed by unis like Bristol, Nottingham, etc... So don't be discouraged, keep applying, and you will make it!! We're all in the same boat with you 🙏

There is a more up to date Chambers Preferred List. You have linked 2016. The latest is 2019.

Law firms' preferred universities 2019 - Chambers Student Guide

The student’s guide to careers in the law. Gives the truth about law firms and the Bar. Based on thousands of interviews with trainees, pupils and market sources, this site offers the full package of careers advice to anyone entering the legal profession.

www.chambersstudent.co.uk

 

[suhana]

@Jessica Booker

Hey Jessica, for Freshfields' personal statement, would you recommend including a closing remark, such as 'I am grateful for your consideration of my application,' or something similar? I am running out of words so just wanted to confirm

 

[Amiyrerose]

Kennedys VI!!!! So so happy 🥳

SAME !!

 

[legaldruid]

Hey guys, has anyone heard back from the following firms?

DWF
Mills & Reeve
Penningtons Manches Cooper
Trowers & Hamlins
Reed Smith
Addleshaw Goddard
TLT

 

[g.cl.2020344]

Hey guys, has anyone heard back from the following firms?

DWF
Mills & Reeve
Penningtons Manches Cooper
Trowers & Hamlins
Reed Smith
Addleshaw Goddard
TLT

Heya, haven’t heard from DWF or Mills& Reeve, but did the assessment at AG

 

[fcac98]

Does anyone know anyone who has successfully received a TC offer without previously applying for VS? Reluctant to apply for direct TC's without previous VS experience.

 

[legaldruid]

Heya, haven’t heard from DWF or Mills& Reeve, but did the assessment at AG

I believe the test for AG is automatic. I did mine as well but no word since then. Its probably too early to ask but I'm stressed out of my mind hahaha!

 

[EA95]

Hi guys, I wanted to ask if I were to apply for a direct TC with freshfields, and was unsuccessful with my attempt, would that rule me out of applying for their winter vacation scheme programme? The applications for that programme open during the summer/fall I believe.