Manifesting a TC: An international non-law's TC journey

[Izzy1026]

Another day with no news from all my direct TC apps and not gonna lie it is making me a little disillusioned at the whole process. But looking back, I feel I have come so far and it would be a shame to give up now so I am going to start a thread to record my progress in my TC applications. Hopefully it would resonate with some to know we are all in this together.

A little bit about myself: I am an international student, non-law undergrad recently graduated from Oxbridge and I have an MPhil in the same school next academic year (kind of like a 4 year programme in that sense). This was my first cycle. I submitted around 12 applications, interviewed at 3 firms, and received vacation scheme offer at 1 US firm. Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful at converting it to a TC (I have since rationalised the whole process and I still think it was a wonderful experience overall). I am still giving one last desperate try for direct TCs (starting in 2026) this summer as my VS experience showed me that corporate law is the one thing I want to do. I am committed to the career path. As much as I am grateful for my MPhil offer and academia is a comfortable Plan B, I would withdraw my MPhil place if I could get a TC with a 2026 start, as I would like to begin my GDL right away.

That said, I have applied to the following firms for direct TCs:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email
White & Case - Submitted
Freshfields - Submitted
WFW - Submitted - Video Interview
HFW - Submitted
MacFarlanes - Submitted

Will apply to:
Paul Hastings

I like firms with personalities and preferably a small intake (Freshfields is an exception but I still applied because I admire their strength in litigation and arbitration) and that has led me to mostly US firms or specialist boutique firms.

I REALLY hope I could get a training contract this summer. Not just because it will finally bring a sense of stability to my life but also because I feel it is time for me to move on from uni and academia. I am ready and eager to join the corporate world (as I say this I realise how much I sound like a brainwashed capitalist) and I just need ONE YES. If anyone is in the same situation and would like to discuss things/spill tea/share thoughts, my dm is open!! Thank you all this community has honestly been the one source of strength that's getting me through.

 

[Jaysen]

Another day with no news from all my direct TC apps and not gonna lie it is making me a little disillusioned at the whole process. But looking back, I feel I have come so far and it would be a shame to give up now so I am going to start a thread to record my progress in my TC applications. Hopefully it would resonate with some to know we are all in this together.

A little bit about myself: I am an international student, non-law undergrad recently graduated from Oxbridge and I have an MPhil in the same school next academic year (kind of like a 4 year programme in that sense). This was my first cycle. I submitted around 12 applications, interviewed at 3 firms, and received vacation scheme offer at 1 US firm. Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful at converting it to a TC (I have since rationalised the whole process and I still think it was a wonderful experience overall). I am still giving one last desperate try for direct TCs (starting in 2026) this summer as my VS experience showed me that corporate law is the one thing I want to do. I am committed to the career path. As much as I am grateful for my MPhil offer and academia is a comfortable Plan B, I would withdraw my MPhil place if I could get a TC with a 2026 start, as I would like to begin my GDL right away.

That said, I have applied to the following firms for direct TCs:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email
White & Case - Submitted
Freshfields - Submitted
WFW - Submitted - Video Interview
HFW - Submitted
MacFarlanes - Submitted

Will apply to:
Paul Hastings

I like firms with personalities and preferably a small intake (Freshfields is an exception but I still applied because I admire their strength in litigation and arbitration) and that has led me to mostly US firms or specialist boutique firms.

I REALLY hope I could get a training contract this summer. Not just because it will finally bring a sense of stability to my life but also because I feel it is time for me to move on from uni and academia. I am ready and eager to join the corporate world (as I say this I realise how much I sound like a brainwashed capitalist) and I just need ONE YES. If anyone is in the same situation and would like to discuss things/spill tea/share thoughts, my dm is open!! Thank you all this community has honestly been the one source of strength that's getting me through.

I'm sorry to hear how tough this process has been for you. I know it can be really disheartening.

I would say that that's a very good hit rate - if you secured a vacation scheme from 12 applications. It might not feel like it, but that is the nature of how the law firm process can be.

The other great thing is you now have a vac scheme under your belt (clearly demonstrating your commitment to commercial law). You might just find there is a firm that's even more fitting for you.

Good luck and keep us updated!

 

[Izzy1026]

Received Macfarlanes online test alongside another Pymetrics test for a banking analyst position that I applied to on a whim. Will aim to do them this afternoon.

I have never been great at SJTs, in fact all of the firms I progressed with either used WG only or no test at all.

 

[Izzy1026]

Just received the Macfarlanes SJT report: My highest scoring strengths are adaptability, relationship-building, and drive. And my lowest is learning agility which really surprised me! In reality I have an easier time grasping new concepts than building new relationships, but this just goes on to show that these tests do not define us!! Also submitted two more applications for finance jobs last night. I should really find a better coping strategy than applying to jobs

 

[Izzy1026]

Update:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email
White & Case - Submitted
Freshfields - Submitted
WFW - Submitted - Video Interview - PFO
HFW - Submitted
Macfarlanes - Submitted - SJT

 

[Izzy1026]

PFO from Freshfields (post app) this is getting ridiculous... Small wins today is a VI invitation from a finance back office job that I applied to. I guess win some lose some.

The more I research into finance/consulting jobs the more I realise how messed up legal applications are. Applicants write ESSAYS to apply to a firm just to be rejected without explanation. Even tests and SJTs have unclear benchmarks. While most online tests from banks and consulting firms provide detailed feedback from test results and indicate whether or not you met the benchmark. There is simply more certainty and transparency in that.

 

[Izzy1026]

Update:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email - PFO
White & Case - Submitted - VI (received on 7 Aug, applied close to the deadline)
Freshfields - Submitted - PFO
WFW - Submitted - VI - PFO
HFW - Submitted - PFO
Macfarlanes - Submitted - SJT - PFO
Paul Hastings - Submitted

Small wins today: Woke up to a first round interview invitation from an asset management job that I applied to last month. TC applications made me lose grip on reality, I was so surprised when a firm got back to me post-application in just 2 weeks because I am used to waiting 4 months for a PFO lol.

Also got invited to an exclusive webinar with an investment bank for their off cycle opportunities.

I have also decided to spend my Masters year wisely to explore more career paths so I have begun applying to mini-pupillage as well!

I find myself in a much better place mental health wise lately and feeling more energetic )

 

[Legalstalker]

Update:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email - PFO
White & Case - Submitted - VI (received on 7 Aug, applied close to the deadline)
Freshfields - Submitted - PFO
WFW - Submitted - VI - PFO
HFW - Submitted - PFO
Macfarlanes - Submitted - SJT - PFO
Paul Hastings - Submitted

Small wins today: Woke up to a first round interview invitation from an asset management job that I applied to last month. TC applications made me lose grip on reality, I was so surprised when a firm got back to me post-application in just 2 weeks because I am used to waiting 4 months for a PFO lol.

Also got invited to an exclusive webinar with an investment bank for their off cycle opportunities.

I have also decided to spend my Masters year wisely to explore more career paths so I have begun applying to mini-pupillage as well!

I find myself in a much better place mental health wise lately and feeling more energetic )

That’s amazing! Congrats on the progression from the other companies you’ve applied to.

I’ve done a mini pupillage before, they’re super hard to get but the application process is much simpler than the vac scheme one in my opinion. Most ask for a CV to be sent to their email or a short application form with a CV. However, many chambers do tend to ghost as a PFO. Plus I always found myself hitting a brick wall as the application windows will be soo long I.e July - January.

For one chambers I applied to they took 10 mini pupils I was 11th… sigh😭 but it was great to know where I was ranked in terms of their criteria and realistically if I were to apply to a pupillage with them I could’ve secured a first round interview.

I feel like the commercial bar is less forgiving in terms of grades and very Oxbridge heavy, as in 4/5 juniors will be Oxbridge at a good commercial chambers although most are like this and you’d get the odd Edinburgh, Durham, LSE and Bristol. These stats will be on legal cheek and also check out chambers websites to see where they were educated and what in it gives you a good idea of ‘what they’re looking for’ although this could change year to year.

I’d also say when applications open apply for a bar scholarship! Even if you decide later down the line you don’t want to be a barrister it’s good to have that security of knowing you could do it as it’s super pricey £14-£19k depending on the academic provider.

Sorry for my long message!! But wishing you the best I love reading your thread

 

[Izzy1026]

That’s amazing! Congrats on the progression from the other companies you’ve applied to.

I’ve done a mini pupillage before, they’re super hard to get but the application process is much simpler than the vac scheme one in my opinion. Most ask for a CV to be sent to their email or a short application form with a CV. However, many chambers do tend to ghost as a PFO. Plus I always found myself hitting a brick wall as the application windows will be soo long I.e July - January.

For one chambers I applied to they took 10 mini pupils I was 11th… sigh😭 but it was great to know where I was ranked in terms of their criteria and realistically if I were to apply to a pupillage with them I could’ve secured a first round interview.

I feel like the commercial bar is less forgiving in terms of grades and very Oxbridge heavy, as in 4/5 juniors will be Oxbridge at a good commercial chambers although most are like this and you’d get the odd Edinburgh, Durham, LSE and Bristol. These stats will be on legal cheek and also check out chambers websites to see where they were educated and what in it gives you a good idea of ‘what they’re looking for’ although this could change year to year.

I’d also say when applications open apply for a bar scholarship! Even if you decide later down the line you don’t want to be a barrister it’s good to have that security of knowing you could do it as it’s super pricey £14-£19k depending on the academic provider.

Sorry for my long message!! But wishing you the best I love reading your thread

Thank you so much!!! Yes I had the exact same experience with a chamber I applied to last year. They took in 20 mini pupils in total and I was the 22 out of 200+ applicants.... But I really like how transparent they are with the process. The grading metric they provided is actually super helpful in letting me know where I needed to improve. I am a non-law so I don't have that many chambers to choose from for mini pupillage unfortunately, but I am applying to everything I can find on Legal Cheek. Also yess I plan to apply to Gary's Inn/Lincon's Inn for their GDL scholarship since it guarantees a Bar Scholarship interview.

Good luck to you too! Your posts are so inspiring ngl. We are in this together and we just need that one yes (which we will get *fingers crossed*) x

 

[Izzy1026]

Just did the White & Case VI lol 15 secs prep time are you kidding me??? I felt I was just blabbing my way through. I don't even remember what I said....

 

[Izzy1026]

Went off the grid re: law apps for the past few weeks and my mental health has never been better!!!

I was really pleased to have progressed to the final interview for a buy side finance job that I applied to on a whim when I was too depressed from TC applications. Also had hopeful news from a hedge fund in New York for a full-time middle-office position (which again, is something I applied to when shrouded in the cloud of post-TC rejection angst). I am grateful that these opportunities are boosting my confidence when TC apps filled me with so much doubt about my abilities.

Regardless, I will be back on the VS app grind starting next week. I have submitted apps to Sidley and A&O Shearman (yet to finish the VI), planning to apply to Jones Day, HSF, NRF next week!

 

[Izzy1026]

Jones Day first round interview (applied on 10/9, invited on 13/9) 🤓 Celebrating the small wins

 

[benpeacock7766]

Jones Day first round interview (applied on 10/9, invited on 13/9) 🤓 Celebrating the small wins

Which scheme date did you apply for?

 

[Izzy1026]

Which scheme date did you apply for?

Winter

 

[Izzy1026]

Unpopular opinion but I found Ashurst’s online test really enjoyable. The game format was very engaging and it didn’t feel like an assessment at all!!

Also quick update on applications: I decided to go all out this year and increased the number of firms I’m applying to. Last year I only applied to 4 winter schemes and this year I plan to more than double the number. So far I’ve applied to:

1. Jones Day
2. Ashurst
3. AO Shearman
4. Sidley

In the process of preparing the application for:

5. HSF
6. Dechert
7. Covington
8. NRF
9. Simmons

 

[sammm10101]

I love reading these threads, I find it so inspiring. Good luck with your applications, and well done for already applying for 4 winter schemes!!

 

[Izzy1026]

I love reading these threads, I find it so inspiring. Good luck with your applications, and well done for already applying for 4 winter schemes!!

Thank you so much!

 

[Izzy1026]

Done with Dechert and NRF Winter. Also sent a spontaneous app to Willkie for Spring! Left with these on my to-do list as of now:

1. Covington WVS
2. HSF WVS
3. Simmons WVS

Also considering dropping an app for Clifford Chance TC and Travers TC...still thinking..

 

[FaithEsosa]

Another day with no news from all my direct TC apps and not gonna lie it is making me a little disillusioned at the whole process. But looking back, I feel I have come so far and it would be a shame to give up now so I am going to start a thread to record my progress in my TC applications. Hopefully it would resonate with some to know we are all in this together.

A little bit about myself: I am an international student, non-law undergrad recently graduated from Oxbridge and I have an MPhil in the same school next academic year (kind of like a 4 year programme in that sense). This was my first cycle. I submitted around 12 applications, interviewed at 3 firms, and received vacation scheme offer at 1 US firm. Unfortunately, I was unsuccessful at converting it to a TC (I have since rationalised the whole process and I still think it was a wonderful experience overall). I am still giving one last desperate try for direct TCs (starting in 2026) this summer as my VS experience showed me that corporate law is the one thing I want to do. I am committed to the career path. As much as I am grateful for my MPhil offer and academia is a comfortable Plan B, I would withdraw my MPhil place if I could get a TC with a 2026 start, as I would like to begin my GDL right away.

That said, I have applied to the following firms for direct TCs:

Sullivan Cromwell - Submitted - Holding email
White & Case - Submitted
Freshfields - Submitted
WFW - Submitted - Video Interview
HFW - Submitted
MacFarlanes - Submitted

Will apply to:
Paul Hastings

I like firms with personalities and preferably a small intake (Freshfields is an exception but I still applied because I admire their strength in litigation and arbitration) and that has led me to mostly US firms or specialist boutique firms.

I REALLY hope I could get a training contract this summer. Not just because it will finally bring a sense of stability to my life but also because I feel it is time for me to move on from uni and academia. I am ready and eager to join the corporate world (as I say this I realise how much I sound like a brainwashed capitalist) and I just need ONE YES. If anyone is in the same situation and would like to discuss things/spill tea/share thoughts, my dm is open!! Thank you all this community has honestly been the one source of strength that's getting me through.

If I may ask, why were you unable to convert your vacation scheme to a training contract?

 

[Izzy1026]

If I may ask, why were you unable to convert your vacation scheme to a training contract?

The feedback was that I did not do well on the technical assessment and was not sufficiently detail-oriented in a drafting task. There’s also head count issues (they are known to only convert roughly 30%) so I kinda anticipated that it will be a hard VS and was not too disheartened to not convert. But it was a good experience having learned so much