TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

[Amma Usman]

Sorry if I’m getting a bit annoying (just a bit anxious), have NRF given out summer vac scheme offers yet.

Also how do I gauge if I did well in my AC or not - it was my first ever one. Never done an hour long interview before in my life.

I completely sympathise with how you are feeling. The waiting part is honestly the hardest, especially after putting so much effort into preparing and going through the day. It is so natural to keep replaying everything in your head, wondering how you came across or whether certain moments went well. But unfortunately, there is really no way to tell how you did until the firm gets back to you with their decision or feedback. Assessment centres are designed to test a range of skills and sometimes what feels average to you in the moment might have actually landed well with the assessors.

One thing I would say is try not to over-analyse every little thing, even though I know that is easier said than done. Try to distract yourself by doing something you enjoy or that helps take your mind off it, even if just for a few hours. It really helps with the waiting. Also, please do not worry, you are not being annoying at all. I completely get the anxiety.

In terms of gauging how you did, I really relate because my first AC felt like a whirlwind and the hour-long interview especially can be daunting when you have never done anything like it before. The truth is, it is so hard to know because assessors pick up on things we do not even realise in the moment. The best thing you can do is remind yourself that getting to the AC stage already means they saw potential in you, and that experience alone is huge. Regardless of the outcome, it is going to help you massively for the next one. You did more than you think just by getting through the day.

 

[fbtrainee]

Does anyone have any advice on how to prepare for the bclp ac? I have one coming up soon and I'm really worried as its my first ever AC. I'd really appreciate any insights and tips!!

 

[Ram Sabaratnam]

For questions like 'what aspects of the solicitor role do you find most interesting', should a lot of the focus be on commercial-driven interests?

Hiya @Legallywhatever


Have to agree with what @Jessica Booker and @Amma Usman have already said. I think when answering questions about what interests you in becoming a solicitor, it’s not a bad idea to touch on commercial aspects. However, you'll want to reflect a bit more precisely on those aspects of the role that make being a solicitor unique when compared to other City careers/client-focussed professions. Think about what solicitors are specifically more likely to do that sets them apart from, e.g., consultants, investment bankers, compliance roles, etc.

I've seen successful candidates mention a number of things when approaching this sort of question. For example, some have mentioned how they are drawn to the opportunities for multi-jurisdictional work, allowing them to gain exposure to legal systems from different regions whilst advising their clients. Other candidates have mentioned their interest in assisting clients navigate challenging regulations and court procedures. I've also seen candidates highlight their interest in helping clients address significant disputes, highlighting the quite distinctive role that solicitors often play in helping clients address situations where relationships or agreements break down.

Again, you can mention commercial matters, but I think the key is to focus on what interest you about the legal side of the role, not just the commercial environment. Hope this was clear and good luck with the application!

 

[Amma Usman]

If a 'cover letter' is just one question on an application form, alongside other standard questions (e.g. 'What's your proudest achievement'), do you still need to structure it with 'Dear Graduate Recruitment', and introduce yourself? It isnt as a document but just in an answer field

In such a case, I typically structure the start like this:

Dear Graduate Recruitment Team,

RE: APPLICATION FOR WINTER/SPRING/SUMMER VACATION SCHEME 2025

My name is Amma Usman, a final-year undergraduate law student at the University of Leicester, applying for the 2025 Vacation Scheme at (Firm’s Name). This cover letter will address three key aspects: my motivation for a career in commercial law, desire to join your firm specifically, and the qualities which make me a standout candidate for the position.

….Hope this answers your question.

 

[Amma Usman]

Hi @Jessica Booker

When answering this question, What are you looking for from your Training Contract? would you draw upon firm specific aspects which align with the firm's training structure or discuss more generally what you are expecting from your training contract at any firm?

Thank you

When answering “What are you looking for from your Training Contract?” I think the strongest responses blend both - starting with what you are genuinely looking for in a training contract generally and then naturally connecting that to why the specific firm fits what you are looking for so well. This shows that you have clear independent reasoning behind your goals, rather than tailoring your answer only because you are applying to that firm.

For example, you might say you are looking for structured, high-quality training, exposure to complex cross-border work, and the chance to work closely with industry-leading clients because you are someone who learns best by being fully immersed in challenging environments. That is your independent reasoning, which is quite generic in itself. Then, you strengthen your answer by explaining how the specific firm aligns with that. For instance, the firm’s small intake, or guaranteed client secondments directly supports your development goals. You could say something like, “This is exactly why I was drawn to [Firm Name] - the smaller intake means greater exposure to deals and responsibility early on, and the guaranteed international secondment reflects the global scope of the work I want to experience.” If you can also give an example of how you thrived in a similar environment, your answer will be elevated.

Framing it this way does two things. First, it shows you have reflected carefully on what you need to grow as a future lawyer. Second, it proves you have researched the firm well enough to see how their strategy, structure, and culture align with your own ambitions. That level of clarity and alignment will always make your answer stand out more.

I’m sure @Jessica Booker will have more thoughts on this.

 

[Amma Usman]

Does anyone have any advice on how to prepare for the bclp ac? I have one coming up soon and I'm really worried as its my first ever AC. I'd really appreciate any insights and tips!!

Have they told you what the AC is comprised of? Perhaps we’ll be able to advise better from there. Otherwise, let us know and we’ll be happy to give you general AC tips on frequent components typically seen across firms

 

[toad92]

anyone got any insight for the gibson dunn second stage interview!! would appreciate u forever 🙏 🙏

 

[NJS]

Hi @Jessica Booker I'm looking to move roles from my current legal administrator role to paralegal, I currently work at an international firm, but I have an interview with a regional firm for a paralegal role, I'm only really wanting to move because there does not seem to be any opportunities to move up here and the travel to London is starting to really impact my finances as the pay is not good.

My question is: do you thinking moving from an international firm to a regional firm will impact my chances of securing a TC at an international firm, or am I "moving down" with a regional paralegal job? I've have secured 8 ACs over two cycles (all with international firms) with this current job, and I think having that "international" experience helped. Alternatively, I would hopefully be moving to a paralegal role, so my quality of work would ultimately improve which may make me more competitive? It's just very hard to secure a city paralegal job without real "paralegal" experience.

 

[Legallywhatever]

It doesn’t have to be entirely commercial-driven. It’s easy to feel that way because you’re applying to commercial law firms, but the question is just as much about what genuinely excites you about the role of a solicitor. Naturally, it helps to show that you understand the client-focused nature of the work and the fact that you are advising businesses, helping them manage risk, and navigate legal issues. However, that doesn’t mean your answer has to revolve solely around an interest in markets or corporate strategy. You can absolutely talk about what draws you in personally, whether that is solving complex problems, working collaboratively with different teams, or learning continuously as industries evolve. Some people are also genuinely interested in the legal research and drafting side or enjoy being in a role where their advice directly shapes client decisions.

That said, it is really important to make sure that whatever examples you choose, you avoid falling into the trap of giving a generic answer that could apply to any commercial profession, as @Jessica Booker rightly pointed out. Saying things like you enjoy working in a fast-paced environment or you are interested in business without tying it back to the specific nature of a solicitor’s work can make your answer sound vague and less convincing. The key is showing that you understand what is unique about the solicitor role - applying legal knowledge in a commercial context, building long-term client relationships, and balancing legal risk with practical solutions… and explaining why that appeals to you personally. If you can get that balance right, your answer will come across as thoughtful, tailored, and genuine.

Hiya @Legallywhatever


Have to agree with what @Jessica Booker and @Amma Usman have already said. I think when answering questions about what interests you in becoming a solicitor, it’s not a bad idea to touch on commercial aspects. However, you'll want to reflect a bit more precisely on those aspects of the role that make being a solicitor unique when compared to other City careers/client-focussed professions. Think about what solicitors are specifically more likely to do that sets them apart from, e.g., consultants, investment bankers, compliance roles, etc. I've seen successful candidates mention a number of things when approaching this sort of question. For example, some have mentioned how they are drawn to the opportunities for multi-jurisdictional work, allowing them to gain exposure to legal systems from different regions whilst advising their clients. Other candidates have mentioned their interest in assisting clients navigate challenging regulations and court procedures. I've also seen candidates highlight their interest in helping clients address significant disputes, highlighting the quite distinctive role that solicitors often play in helping clients address situations where relationships or agreements break down.

Again, you can mention commercial matters, but I think the key is to focus on what interest you about the legal side of the role, not just the commercial environment. Hope this was clear and good luck with the application!

Thank you both!!!

 

[trainee4u]

If a 'cover letter' is just one question on an application form, alongside other standard questions (e.g. 'What's your proudest achievement'), do you still need to structure it with 'Dear Graduate Recruitment', and introduce yourself? It isnt as a document but just in an answer field

I've seen to different approaches to this, depending on the firm.

Firstly, I got a VS interview where I was specifically instructed to copy-paste the cover letter into the box, and address it "to the training principal". As such, I did "Dear Training Principal", and wrote it exactly like a normal cover letter including a 'Best regards' at the end, except obviously no date or address at the top.

In another case it was specified not to include a salutation etc., and in that case it was the same as my previous example but with the "Dear" and "Best regards" removed.

Since it's a cover letter, I include something like "I'm writing to apply for your training contract" at the start, explain my background and interest in the law, my work experience and how these relate to the firm's practice, what skills I have and how they can benefit the firm, etc.

Since they've asked for a cover letter, I would include "Dear" and "Best wishes" (or similar) at the start and end, unless instructed otherwise.

There are often clues on chambers student, law careers and/or the firm's website that will give important information on filling in the form correctly.

 

[Ali2020]

Is the online test/VI from Foot Anstey automatic for everyone that applies?

 

[Ali2020]

Does anyone have any suggestions/tips for Foot Anstey's online assessment and VI...this is my first one and have no idea how to prepare. Would appreciate all the help and support!!! Thanks

 

[trainee4u]

Does anyone have any suggestions/tips for Foot Anstey's online assessment and VI...this is my first one and have no idea how to prepare. Would appreciate all the help and support!!! Thanks

This was discussed here (et seq)

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Hey, this used to be me. I will be honest, TCLA premium resources helped me More than anything. You get access to successful apps and courses on how to write them and More. I swear im not sponsored! I know not everyone can afford it but if you can, I recommend getting it for one month and going...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Since there is a VI you will need to research about the firm as they're almost guaranteed to ask "why do you want to work here", "which of our practice areas", "what distinguishes us" "what would you do for one of our clients" or similar firm-based question.

They might also ask you "why do you want to be a lawyer" or pretty much any question here https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/175-training-contract-interview-questions-2/

Normally you get a behavioural question of some kind.

You'll have typically 30 seconds to prepare and 90-120 seconds to talk.

 

[Ali2020]

This was discussed here (et seq)

TCLA Vacation Scheme Applications Discussion Thread 2024-25

Hey, this used to be me. I will be honest, TCLA premium resources helped me More than anything. You get access to successful apps and courses on how to write them and More. I swear im not sponsored! I know not everyone can afford it but if you can, I recommend getting it for one month and going...

www.thecorporatelawacademy.com

Since there is a VI you will need to research about the firm as they're almost guaranteed to ask "why do you want to work here", "which of our practice areas", "what distinguishes us" "what would you do for one of our clients" or similar firm-based question.

They might also ask you "why do you want to be a lawyer" or pretty much any question here https://www.thecorporatelawacademy.com/175-training-contract-interview-questions-2/

Normally you get a behavioural question of some kind.

You'll have typically 30 seconds to prepare and 90-120 seconds to talk.

Thank you very much for this!!!!

 

[panon]

has anyone heard from Paul Hastings Summer VS post-app?

 

[Olivialee15]

Sorry to keep banging on about this, but anyone who has done a Mishcon AC, they said it would start either 12 pm or 1 pm but would communicate it closer to the date, I haven't heard anything from them and mine's tomorrow - should I email?

 

[Applebanana425]

Anyone not heard from NRF yet?

 

[aphelion]

Sorry to keep banging on about this, but anyone who has done a Mishcon AC, they said it would start either 12 pm or 1 pm but would communicate it closer to the date, I haven't heard anything from them and mine's tomorrow - should I email?

I got the email at 1pm the day before, so if you still haven't heard and yours is tomorrow I'd probably get in touch with them

 

[paralegaltotrainee]

Hiya @paralegaltotrainee


Congratulations again on securing your place on Cooley's vacation scheme! I've put together some of my thoughts below for you.

You'll find the scheme consists in a balanced mix of live client assignments and structured tasks set by graduate recruitment. Both elements are equally important, so even though the live client work is engaging and rewarding, make sure you give the structured tasks plenty of attention too. These exercises provide graduate recruitment with a consistent benchmark to compare candidates (which can be more difficult to assess if they were to look strictly at your live client work), so I'd recommend that you invest care and thought into each one.

You'll likely sit in two different seats during your time on the scheme. While it's tempting to focus on work within your assigned teams, I strongly encourage you to look beyond them as well. Some of the most insightful and enjoyable experiences I had involved actively approaching associates and partners in other practice areas. Reaching out to express your interest and proactively asking for tasks will not only enrich your understanding of how the firm operates but also help you demonstrate initiative and curiosity.

My trainee buddy was an invaluable support to me during the scheme (sadly, they've since left the firm). They allowed me to navigate everything from understanding senior lawyers' workloads to figuring out the best way to approach certain tasks. Really recommend that you don't hesitate to ask your buddy any questions you have (whether practical, professional, or simply about firm culture). My buddy certainly made the experience much less daunting.

Finally, while the vacation scheme can be intense, you shouldn't put unnecessary pressure on yourself. One thing I tell myself often is to "get out of my own head." Overthinking can feel awful. Instead, actively seek feedback before submitting work, but don’t let it shake your confidence if you receive heavily edited documents. I had my fair share of redlined feedback and still managed to secure multiple offers.

Good luck! I’m sure you’ll do brilliantly!

Thank you so much for taking the time to write this, @Ram Sabaratnam ! This is very helpful - it is very much appreciated! 😊

 

[paralegaltotrainee]

I think it might be helpful to spend your time exploring the firm's key practice areas and perhaps reading up on some of their recent matters or clients they're currently supporting. You can also research specific people you might want to arrange coffee chats with and I'd encourage you to have a think about what you'd genuinely like to ask them or find out about them. Best of luck with the scheme!

I wouldn’t recommend approaching people before the scheme.

1) you don’t know your schedule/commitments yet so you can’t actually plan anything.

2) there will be easier communication channels once you are in the firm than using an external system like LinkedIn.

I wouldn’t recommend just wait for the scheme to start so you are in a better position to know whether you need to schedule the catch up (it maybe that you have a scheduled talk on the matter you want to speak to them about) and also when you can schedule some time in with them.

Thank you both so much for the advice!