TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Ricky

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I submitted my Latham app a while back and did not receive an email about the SJT. I logged onto all hires today and see there is an assignment to do (the SJT). I'm not sure if the 72 hour rule applies or not, would this affect my app?
Did you receive the confirmation email that you submitted the app? The SJT test is referenced there.
 

g.cl.2020344

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Nov 1, 2024
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would I be able to tell if they withdrew my app? the SJT is still there and I am planning on doing it even thoughts very much been over the 3 days (I applied months ago lol). my app still says pending under it on all hires
Mine is the same! I never got notified of the SJT, gonna do it today and hope that my app is still valid. Maybe be like OC where you just have to do the assessment before the application window closes
 

legalxp2

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Jan 4, 2024
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Mine is the same! I never got notified of the SJT, gonna do it today and hope that my app is still valid. Maybe be like OC where you just have to do the assessment before the application window closes
yes for sure doing it before the deadline ahaha. just surprised because in past years they have sent the SJT separately AND reminders!
 

Unknowncabbage

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May 18, 2024
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Does anyone know if Hogan Lovells has A Level requirements? Some sites are saying AAB and some sites have only listed 2.1 requirement. If they do, is it a hard requirement (if you don’t have this you won’t progress/stand a chance) or are they known to be lenient?
Legal cheek says AAB. However, this is just from what I’ve heard (so I’d take it like a pinch of salt because I’m not 100% sure) but I think if you have like ABB for example you will be fine if you have ofc a 2:1 and a strong application.
 

Amma Usman

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Does anyone know if Hogan Lovells has A Level requirements? Some sites are saying AAB and some sites have only listed 2.1 requirement. If they do, is it a hard requirement (if you don’t have this you won’t progress/stand a chance) or are they known to be lenient?

Hey @Zaraa.x , yes it’s AAB, per our list here; https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/forum/threads/law-firms-a-level-requirements-list.9082/

I suspect for degree requirements it’ll always be a 2:1 or better, and mitigating circumstances will be taken to account.
 

Zaraa.x

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Oct 23, 2024
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Legal cheek says AAB. However, this is just from what I’ve heard (so I’d take it like a pinch of salt because I’m not 100% sure) but I think if you have like ABB for example you will be fine if you have ofc a 2:1 and a strong application.
That makes sense! Thank you - I’ll also confirm with grad rec because the website is silent on grades.
 

Amma Usman

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Hi everyone,
does anyone know how long is ideal for the S & C cover letter? I'm at about 950 words which I can squeeze into one page at font nine but it feels too long. They don't have any guidance on their website but considering what other firms like S & M say, surely this is too long?

Any help would be appreciated.
Thanks

Hey @C_AJH , I usually aimed for 650 words or around that 500-word mark. I found that this had helped me to go straight into my motivations, cut out flowery words, and it was these applications I ended up being most successful with. A longer word count may be permitted, but ensure you prioritise conciseness with how you communicate your motivations and competencies. You are right in suggesting that this policy differs between firms. For example, Jones Day has a 300 word limit and this is highlighted in their application form. For firms which this isn’t, I’d say aim for lower than 950 words just to be safe.
 

Amma Usman

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what have people written about for the 'introduce a topic you know about' on the HSF app? I have a rather niche one I plan to discuss but I think it might be too academic. What are they actually looking for? I mean obvs non-boring, somewhat curious and well-read people who can enthuse and inform ppl about things. wondering what some successful candidates might have put in the past.

Hey @affidavid , I know the deadline has passed for HSF, but I still think it’s useful to provide insights on this very good question, as it’s typically seen among other firm‘s applications as well.

In my experience, there is no single “right” approach to this question, and it is possible to write about virtually anything you know well. What matters most is your ability to present the topic in a way that reflects your genuine enthusiasm and allows someone unfamiliar with it to walk away having learned something new or feeling inspired. The question is not just about what you know, but about how you engage with the subject and why it matters to you.

If your topic is academic, the way you structure your response becomes especially important. It can be tempting to approach the question as though you are writing an academic essay or engaging in a formal debate. However, I would recommend focusing less on technical details and more on the broader ideas and connections that make the topic meaningful to you. Rather than delving too deeply into specialised content, try to highlight the personal fascination it holds for you and how it ties into larger themes that others might relate to or find intriguing.

For example, if I were answering this question, I might choose to write about the history of the diamond trade and how its regulation has shaped international commerce. While it is an academic topic, I would begin by explaining how my initial interest was sparked, perhaps through a documentary or a legal case study, and then transition into discussing broader themes like globalisation, ethics in trade, and the role of regulation in fostering transparency. I would aim to present the information in a way that captures both the complexities of the topic and the passion I feel for it, ensuring that even someone with no background in the subject could follow my reasoning and feel engaged.

The key is to use the topic as a way to showcase not just your knowledge, but also your ability to convey ideas clearly and to connect with an audience. HSF is likely looking for candidates who are not only well-informed, but also capable of using their insights to enthuse and inform others.
 

Amma Usman

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Has anyone had any success with paralegal roles post-graduation? If so, I would appreciate some advice.

Hey @Applebanana425 , I know some people have been successful through checking for roles on Law Society Gazette, as well as reaching out to legal recruiters on LinkedIn - which are usually responsive. There are also specific agencies which partner with firms to find paralegals - for example, the SJP and Ryder are two I know.
 
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