TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[PlimptonWeld]

Not last year - they asked people to do them before the AC but said in the feedback call that it was just to collect data and didn't use them to make decisions

I think they've changed their process now... (I hate WGs)

 

[PlimptonWeld]

is this true? why would they need data on it? so if someone got a WG for Cleary does that mean they will get an AC? seems unrealistic idk tho

No, I can confirm. Was invited to AC last year and the WG was also attached to the AC invite. On the feedback call, they said the same but I think they've changed their process to use WG to filter candidates now. (rip me)

 

[Aspiringsolicitor01]

If anyone is waiting for a WG from DLA it might be because you haven’t completed the Rare survey. That’s what has just happened to me. Hopefully now I’ve completed it they get back to me with their verdict sharpish.

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

Does Cleary filter using WGs?

To contribute to the Cleary discussion, I'm 99% sure it's part of the process now because I was sent one not too long after applying. Not sure if it's a "filter" with a concrete benchmark though.

 

[Bread]

If anyone is waiting for a WG from DLA it might be because you haven’t completed the Rare survey. That’s what has just happened to me. Hopefully now I’ve completed it they get back to me with their verdict sharpish.

On that note, do candidates get penalised for not filling out the Rare survey? I didn't grow up in the UK so almost all of the questions are inapplicable (eg. school meals, postcode, etc), but they do not have a "prefer not to say" option. I usually opt out because the answers I would necessarily have to supply would not be reflective of my circumstances in any way, but is this a bad thing?

 

[F a v o u r]

To contribute to the Cleary discussion, I'm 99% sure it's part of the process now because I was sent one not too long after applying. Not sure if it's a "filter" with a concrete benchmark though.

Do they ask people to complete the test before the deadline? Or do we get a certain number of days to complete it, regardless of when we submit the application?

 

[billyonthespeeddial]

Do they ask people to complete the test before the deadline? Or do we get a certain number of days to complete it, regardless of when we submit the application?

It's three days from the date of the invite! I assume that'll be the same in any case because the test isn't automatically sent out (i.e. you might receive it after the application deadline in the first place)

 

[F a v o u r]

It's three days from the date of the invite! I assume that'll be the same in any case because the test isn't automatically sent out (i.e. you might receive it after the application deadline in the first place)

oh okay, thanks for clarifying

 

[Apple]

Anyone who applied to slaughters- how much pre firm contact did you have.

The presentation evening is all booked up for my uni and I’m worried I won’t have enough personal insights for my application.

I received an interview invite despite having no formal interactions with the firm.

 

[a1024]

In no more than 850 words, tell us all about who you are. As part of your personal statement you should demonstrate that you have the potential to be a great trainee. We also want to know why you want to work at Freshfields and what excites you about a career in commercial law. You may wish to mention any positions of responsibility held at university, as well as work experience or employment, achievements, interests and personal qualities you think are relevant.

hey does anyone have any tips on how to structure the personal statement for freshfields?

 

[HelpAStudentOut]

How long did it take after ur app to get the invite?

Roughly a month - I applied mid September

 

[member7830]

what wg do u usually need for Linklaters?

 

[DulyDiligent]

what wg do u usually need for Linklaters?

last year i got 34/40 and got it

 

[👩🎓]

Hi @Jessica Booker. What advice do you have for answering "where should we open an office if you were the CEO of the firm" (where a firm has both international and regional offices around the UK).

Any advice would be highly appreciated, thank you.

 

[Uch21]

Does anyone have any insight please into the application process for a TC at Pinsent Masons? In particular, regarding the online blended assessment. Is it timed etc?

​

The assessment is untimed but we have 2 mins for each video interview question.

 

[yeezyee]

sidley better not do a surprise wvs invite for me.. i am using my time off elsewhere it’s been 7 weeks ! 😭

 

[Aspiringsolicitor01]

On that note, do candidates get penalised for not filling out the Rare survey? I didn't grow up in the UK so almost all of the questions are inapplicable (eg. school meals, postcode, etc), but they do not have a "prefer not to say" option. I usually opt out because the answers I would necessarily have to supply would not be reflective of my circumstances in any way, but is this a bad thing?

They said you can opt out instead of completing it.

 

[Lastseasonwonder]

They said you can opt out instead of completing it.

I am also really curious about this. Does it impact you if you don't complete this section (Rare context). I sometimes don't because I feel I don't tick the boxes per se (i.e. didn't have free school meals, not a carer at a young age etc).

@Jessica Booker - could you please opine here?

 

[Tcvspfo]

PWC VI messed that up big time and if I get their AC it will be a miracle. For anyone wanting advice be prepared for scenario based situations and how you will react. Also it is so annoying you can't look at your notes during prep time as they notice when you switch screens. They notice when you switch screens and a pop up comes up. The worst VI but will wait for my PFO soon.

 

[Bread]

They said you can opt out instead of completing it.

Yes, which is why I asked whether candidates get penalised for not completing it (i.e. by opting out)