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 progress to a Vacation Scheme assessment day, you cannot then apply for the direct 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 have no minimum A-level requirements but usually look for applicants to have:
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secured, or be on course to secure, a 2:1 degree (or equivalent qualification); and
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achieved a commendation at the first attempt, if you completed the PGDL; and
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achieved a commendation at the first attempt, if you completed the LPC; or
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passed SQE1 and SQE2 at the first attempt, if you have already completed it.
If you have extenuating circumstances, please explain these in your application.
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 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 are unsuccessful at the application stage you can apply again.
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 in-person events or assessment days.
Programmes
Are schemes paid?
Yes. All our programmes are paid.
How many places are there?
Vacation Scheme: c.55 per year.
First Year Insight Scheme: c.25 per year.
Training Programme: 33 per year.
Application process
How do I apply?
Applications are online only via our Applicant Tracking System. Details are available on the the individual programme pages. Visit our Early Careers page to find out more.
Do you review applications on a rolling basis?
Yes, but only for our Vacation Scheme. For all other programmes we review applications after the deadline has passed.
Can I get feedback?
We cannot provide feedback at the application stage but we do give feedback after assessment days.
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 course and 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 Macfarlanes 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.
