Early Careers FAQs
Choosing where to start your legal career is a big decision, and we know you’ll have questions. This page brings together clear, practical answers about our schemes, how and when to apply, and what to expect from the process. Whether you’re still exploring your options or ready to apply, you’ll find everything you need here to plan your next step.
Eligibility and applications
Should I apply for the Vacation Scheme or Training Programme?
The Vacation Scheme offers a two-week insight into life as a Trainee, but you can apply directly to the Training Programme if you already know Macfarlanes is right for you.
Can I apply for both?
Yes, but we recommend applying for the Vacation Scheme first. If you attend a Vacation Scheme assessment day, you’ll need to wait until the next cycle to apply for the Training Programme.
Do I need a Vacation Scheme to apply for the Training Programme?
No. Any legal or non-legal work experience is considered.
I graduated some years ago/changed career – can I apply?
Yes. Many of our Trainees joined after other careers or later study.
What are the academic requirements?
We usually look for a minimum 2:1 (or equivalent) and commendation/merit in law conversion/LPC, or a first-time pass in the SQE. If you have extenuating circumstances, please explain these in your application. We have no minimum A-level requirements.
Who can apply?
Vacation Scheme: from your penultimate year of study onwards (any degree subject).
Training Programme: law students from penultimate year; non-law students from final year.
First Year Insight Scheme: first year of a three-year degree or second year of a four-year degree.
Do you sponsor visas?
Yes. We cover costs and support visa applications. International students must ensure that the scheme dates fall outside term time.
Do you accept applications from all universities and degree subjects?
Yes. About half of our Trainees studied a non-law subject.
I’m a qualified lawyer overseas – can I apply?
Our Vacation Scheme and Training Programme are designed for those not yet qualified. Please explore our experienced lawyer vacancies instead.
Can I reapply if I’m unsuccessful?
Yes. If you were unsuccessful at an assessment day, we recommend discussing re-applying with the Early Careers team first.
Additional support
What if I need adjustments?
Tell us on your application form or contact the Early Careers team. We’ll discuss what you need to perform at your best.
Do you reimburse travel expenses?
Yes, for candidates attending assessment days.
Programmes
Are schemes paid?
Yes, all our programmes are paid.
How many places are there?
Vacation Scheme: c.65 per year.
First Year Insight Scheme: c.20 per year.
Training Programme: 33 per year.
Do trainees get involved in pro bono work?
Yes. Trainees help run our St Hilda’s legal advice clinic.
Application process
How do I apply?
Applications are online only. You can find out how to apply for each programme on our Early Careers page.
Do you review applications on a rolling basis?
Yes – apply early.
Can I get feedback?
We can’t provide feedback at the application stage but we do give feedback after assessment days.
What are the most common mistakes?
Insufficient research, weak or incomplete answers, poor spelling/grammar, repetition, or not meeting the minimum criteria.
Assessment and interviews
Are assessment days in person?
Yes. They all take place at our London office.
What exercises will I do?
Details are available on the the individual programme pages. Visit our Early Careers page to find out more.
Inclusion and culture
Do you have people networks?
Yes – REACH (race, ethnicity and cultural heritage), Pride, DAWN (disability and wellbeing), SEEN (socio-economic equity), Balance and Green Networks.
Do you partner with external organisations?
Yes, including Rare and upReach, and we benchmark through the Social Mobility Index and Investing in Ethnicity.
Is there a multifaith prayer room?
Yes, and we can adjust interviews and assessments around religious observance.
Do you have a dress-down policy?
Yes, though we recommend you wear business attire for assessment days.
Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) and study
Where do Future Trainees study?
All undertake the PGDL (if needed) and SQE preparation course at BPP Holborn with their Macfarlanes cohort.
Will the firm cover costs?
Yes – we pay course and exam fees for Future Trainees. If you’ve already completed the SQE independently and secure a training contract within a year, we’ll reimburse exam fees.
If I complete the SQE independently, will you sign off QWE?
Yes, if the work experience is suitable.
Upon successful independent completion of the SQE and QWE will I be able to apply for an NQ role at the firm?
Not automatically. Priority for NQ places is given to those who have completed the firm’s Training Programme. Where any NQ places are not filled by qualifying Trainees you will be able to apply if you have suitable experience and where there is a business need.
