TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[SamiyaJ]

Latham PFO just now, Skadden interview in 10 mins

Best of luck!!!

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

does anyone have any updates re kirkland? have tc offers been made? are they holding the vac scheme? are they predominantly going to hire from the vac scheme route? honestly any update is welcome haha

 

[legal18]

Can anyone who's done the Willkie written exercise pm me ASAP! It's about a technical issue. Thank you so much

 

[tcla02]

I got the VS last year and if they have not changed it, it should be a normal teams call. Think about incorporating a new law firm in a new jurisdiction what do you need to consider. Also think about the standard questions like why the firm, why you? etc

hi there!! can i pm you about the nrf interview? thank you

 

[BobThebIlly]

Freshfields SVS Post WG PFO at 9am. I’ve genuinely sobbed since I found out because it was my last application. I haven’t gotten through to a single AC. I’m in second year and was confident I would get through to an AC especially at Hogans and Freshfields because of my past experience with them. Genuinely someone please tell me where I went wrong because I sent my application to a trainee to check twice and I just don’t know what to do and feel sick sorry for the ramble

 

[LegallyStressedOut]

Has anyone not heard from Jones Day? Submitted my app mid December for SVS and have not heard anything since. Should I assume this is a PFO

 

[law121]

I applied for a direct TC but have yet to hear back from them. Has anyone else who applied for a direct TC heard from Linklaters?

My application says its on "hold". is that the same for everyone?

 

[Joey green]

Has anyone not heard from Jones Day? Submitted my app mid December for SVS and have not heard anything since. Should I assume this is a PFO

I am in the same boat!

 

[lawstudent2]

does anyone know if the macfarlanes SVS AC interview part of the day is application blind or not?

 

[FutureTraineeMaybe]

does anyone know if the macfarlanes SVS AC interview part of the day is application blind or not?

It's CV blind

 

[ACivilLawyer]

Finally, my Kirkland PFO has arrived

 

[lawbear123]

is today the last day for skadden interviews?

 

[vr36]

Has anyone who completed their W&C Vi/Ti last Thursday or later heard back?

 

[Amma Usman]

Freshfields SVS Post WG PFO at 9am. I’ve genuinely sobbed since I found out because it was my last application. I haven’t gotten through to a single AC. I’m in second year and was confident I would get through to an AC especially at Hogans and Freshfields because of my past experience with them. Genuinely someone please tell me where I went wrong because I sent my application to a trainee to check twice and I just don’t know what to do and feel sick sorry for the ramble

Hey,

I’m really sorry you’re feeling this way. Rejections are tough, and it’s completely understandable to be upset, especially when you’ve put in so much effort. But please don’t be discouraged. Everyone experiences setbacks in this process, no matter how strong their background is. It hurts in the moment, but you’re on this journey for a reason, and you have to keep going.

A few things to keep in mind:

• Refine your application strategy – Even with strong experience, how you articulate your responses matters. Are your answers to “Why law?” and “Why commercial law?” clear, concrete, and compelling? Most firms ask for around 200–300 words on this, so having well-thought-out responses from the start can save time and ensure consistency across applications.
• Demonstrated interest – Are you backing up your points with specific examples from your experiences? Avoid generic or overly flowery language as firms want to see tangible evidence of your interest in commercial law and their firm specifically.
• The application stage is the hardest – Many people struggle most with this part. It’s important to make sure your written application is as strong as possible because, for many firms, no matter how well you do in later stages, you won’t progress if the initial application isn’t compelling enough.
• Tests and assessments– If a firm requires a Watson Glaser or another test, refining your approach is crucial. Many firms only review applications if candidates pass their tests, so even if you’re comfortable with them, making sure your application itself is strong enough to stand out is just as important.

This process is tough, but setbacks don’t define your ability or future success. It’s okay to take time to feel disappointed, but don’t let this stop you. Keep pushing forward!

 

[yellowponytwin]

They will be the same questions for all offices - just with Guildford substituted for London

thank you - the nerves are actually not related to the VI - just the fact that I haven't heard if it's PFO or if I have an invite at all!

 

[noahsmiit01]

Freshfields SVS Post WG PFO at 9am. I’ve genuinely sobbed since I found out because it was my last application. I haven’t gotten through to a single AC. I’m in second year and was confident I would get through to an AC especially at Hogans and Freshfields because of my past experience with them. Genuinely someone please tell me where I went wrong because I sent my application to a trainee to check twice and I just don’t know what to do and feel sick sorry for the ramble

Yeh same with freshfields. That 9am email ruined my whole day already smh 🤦‍♂️

 

[yellowponytwin]

Which location did you apply to? I applied to CRS London

CRS Cheltenham! fingers crossed for you - have you heard anything from CRS yet??

 

[yellowponytwin]

Did you apply for London too? Maybe London had more applications

I imagine it does make up the majority of applications - but no, I applied for Cheltenham. Have you heard anything back?

 

[futuretraineesolicitor]

Finally, my Kirkland PFO has arrived

hey, was it after the app stage? or the vi?

 

[shana]

How did you guys find it

Really messed up my time management lol but the exercise itself wasn't bad, the info was easy to digest and respond to. Obviously can't take your sweet time though.