POOR A LEVEL SUCCESS STORIES???

[TC Chaser]

Hello all,
I have been wondering if there are any success stories related to two scenarios:

1. Having really poor A levels, but top 2% excellent University grades (both undergrad and postgrad - RG) and solid legal work experience in commercial practice, and still making it further in the application stage, or all the way through, to MC or international law firms without an A level requirement;
2. The same situation in point 1 but for firms who have an A-level requirement but strongly encourage you to apply nonetheless if you have strong grades elsewhere and a great overall application.

For context, one of the international Firms I spoke with falling within point 2 told me to still go ahead and apply as things will be looked at "holistically."

Your engagement will be greatly appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Legalstalker]

Hey,

I feel summoned/obliged to reply to this haha.

My A level grades are disgustingly low. I have mitigating circumstances that affected coursework submissions and writing exams but nonetheless they are atrocious.

I got a 1st in my law degree (non-RG).

Now I did apply to a lot of firms that required AAA-ABB as they considered MC. Many didn’t consider it at all and was a straight rejection.

I secured two vacation scheme both which stated a minimum of AAB was required. One US and one UK boutique? Getting a US VS where i was the only non RG of 20, most went to private schools was such a great feeling knowing despite my setbacks I was able to sit in a room with these people and my a firm saw I had the ability to potentially be a ‘perfect fit for them’. Both firm's give less than 15 TC’s a year. As opposed to Magic circle firms that take 80-100 I was never successful in passing the application stage.

I have also made it to Fieldfisher, Pinsent Masons, Willkie and Simmons post app sift stages I.e AC, VI or TI. Most of these firms require AAB - ABB.

I’m convinced CMS don’t accept MC as I’ve passed their WG and still not got an AC twice.

Pinsent Mason AC invite is based off of your test result (you need to score highly in both intellect and numerical) and your answer in the written section of the amberjack assessment. The AC had a range of people, I do believe they look at how you were in the AC as opposed to your grades as TC spots are decided the same day/ day after once with all those who assessed you.

There are a select few firms who don’t actually consider MC I think it’s just nice to put it on the website to seem inclusive lol. But there are certain firms I just wouldn’t apply to as I know I’d never make it to interview stage regardless of how good my application is. *Cough cough* jones day 👀

I hope this was a successful story? 😅

 

[TC Chaser]

Indeed, this is very inspiring and a success story. Thanks for sharing. I believe your having a first-class and a very strong application tipped the scales in your favour. Inspiring.