How long does a training contract application take?

Mar 08, 2022

Written By Helena Kudiabor

Applying for training contracts can be stressful. You have to ensure that you apply to enough firms to maximise your chances of getting an offer, but at the same time not overwork yourself with too many. Here, you’ll learn what training contract applications involve – so you can figure out how long they might take – and how you can boost your chances of admission.

What do training contract applications involve?

The exact structure of a training contract application varies from firm to firm. Despite this, most will ask you to first complete an application form, in which you’ll list your academic qualifications and education history, as well as write about why you’re interested in law and the firm itself.

You might also be asked to complete an online psychometric test, such as the Watson Glaser test. Successful applicants will then be invited to complete a video interview, and then an assessment day involving practical tasks and interviews with senior lawyers.

It can be a bit overwhelming looking at all the tasks you need to complete. However, remember they’ve been put in place to help you. For instance, if your grades aren’t too great, you still have numerous ways to prove yourself.

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How can I boost my training contract application?

The first thing you need to do is work out which firms you’re interested in. Although you might want to apply to every single one in the country, this will not boost your chances of admission: you won’t have enough time to devote to each application, and will become exhausted. Instead, shortlist firms by considering where in the country you want to work, which sector of law interests you the most, and what size law firm you think will suit you best.

Firms want to know that you are genuinely interested in them, so do plenty of research on them and their key values: use their website, social media and insight days. Many firms will ask why you are interested in them specifically, or what makes you want to be a lawyer, and they’ll be impressed if you can give specific, personal examples.

For instance, if a firm has done pro-bono work for a charity close to your heart, include that in your application. Try to avoid using generic, overused statements such as: “I’ve dreamed of being a lawyer since I was in primary school.”

Finally, remember that little things make a big difference. Start the application early, so you’re not overwhelmed and rushing. Remember to include all your extracurricular activities and work experience – even if it’s not related to law – and don’t lie about your academic qualifications, it’s incredibly easy for a firm to catch you out. Check your application thoroughly before applying, for spelling and grammatical errors;, why not ask a friend or family member to read over your application before submitting it, to see if it needs any minor tweaks? Given the competitive nature of training contracts, you should do everything you can to ensure success.

How long will it take a law firm to respond to my application?

It depends on the firm, but it can typically take between a few days and a month. Firms aim to tell you as soon as possible, as they want to keep you interested, and some may give you a specific date that you’ll hear back from them, but delays are common. If you’ve been waiting for a while, send a polite email to the firm’s graduate recruitment office.

Lastly, it’s important to note that some firms might not respond to you if your application form is unsuccessful, if they receive a particularly large volume of applications.

Hopefully this has helped you learn a bit more about the process of applying for a training contract and how long it can take. Best of luck on your applications!

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