Vacation Scheme Applications - Official Thread 2009!

Some firms (e.g. BLP) won't let you apply for a TC in the same year as you are rejected for a VS. And while the statistics attest to VSs being more difficult to secure than a TC, bear in mind that a TC is a much greater commitment for a firm to make and often they will want to be absolutely sure that they like you before they make that commitment. With VSs they are more likely to let on some borderline candidates to see how they fit in with the firm.

As far as I can remember, most Open Days are in October-January with virtually big firms having their Open Days before the January 31st VS deadline. Open Days can be useful, but I'd really emphasise VSs as being the main way of getting the feel for a firm. It's quite easy for a firm to dazzle you for a day with presentations and free lunches - it's more difficult when you actually get to do work for a couple of weeks. That said, definitely get along to as many of them as you can, and make sure you go to as many events at Oxford as you can. They'll be a great way to get more information and maybe make a bit of an impression. On that note, does your Chris Saul story have a happy ending?

Anyone heard back from Slaughter about the Christmas vacation scheme yet? x

No problem they've already emailed me for first year results (i'm doing a finals degree so i only have second year results), do you think the fact that i don't have any will affect whether i get in or not?

Hey people

I thought it may be a good idea to have a thread where all questions about vac schemes could be answered!

I know that vac scheme applications are not open until October, but it the mean time i wondered if anyone could answer a few questions for me:

- The process / the sort of questions one will be asked to answer in the application.

- The amount of applications one would be advised to make (sorry, i think i asked this question before, but may be useful for other readers )

- How to get a better idea of 'commercial awareness'.

I'm sure i'll think of a few others soon enough!

Thanks people, Jess xxx

Vacation schemes are almost all targeted at students who have completed their second or final year of the LLB.

well, i take 7 out of 9 exams in my third (and final year). I took two this year from which i averaged 66%, but i didn't take any in my first year x

I just read that for Allen and Overy, for training schemes starting in the term 2011/2012, which is the year I would be starting, you have to apply by the end of July '09... the end of first year!! scary...

when do people generally start applying for VPs?

Hey,

I just wondered if any firms are accepting applications yet?

I know alot of firms open on the 1st of October?

Any open at present?

Thanks, Jess xxxx