Training Contract at Ashurst
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Ashurst
Ashurst is a leading international law firm with particular strengths in energy, infrastructure, and project finance. The firm operates across 26 offices in 16 countries and has a strong Australian practice that differentiates it from other UK-headquartered firms.
Ashurst has a collaborative reputation and is noted for genuine investment in trainee development. The firm has made significant recent cultural commitments around wellbeing and flexibility. Trainees often cite strong access to senior lawyers and meaningful responsibility from early in their training contract.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Ashurst funds SQE preparation — Ashurst funds SQE preparation and exam fees for all trainees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Selection Criteria
What Ashurst looks for
Academic requirements
A 2:1 in any subject. Ashurst explicitly considers mitigating circumstances and contextual data in applications.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Any commercial, professional, or extra-curricular experience demonstrating initiative. Vacation scheme experience at Ashurst is the primary TC pipeline.
The Process
Application timeline
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis - apply early.
Verbal and situational judgement tests.
Group exercise, interview, and written task.
2-week summer vacation scheme.
Direct applications also considered.
How to Win
Application tips for Ashurst
Ashurst's energy and infrastructure practice is a genuine global strength - if you have any interest in this space, research it thoroughly and reference it specifically.
The firm has a strong Australian connection - international ambitions, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, are worth mentioning if genuine.
Ashurst values candidates who can reflect on their own development. Be ready to discuss what you've learned from setbacks and how you've responded.
Understanding the SQE and how it fits with TC training demonstrates seriousness - Ashurst recruits are often surprised by how many applicants don't know the qualification requirements.
SQE tip: Some firms view positively candidates already preparing for SQE1 — it signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
Assessment
Interview & assessment format
Process stages
- 1Online application
- 2Situational judgement and verbal reasoning tests
- 3Assessment centre: group exercise, partner interview, written exercise
Interview tips
- —The group exercise rewards thoughtful contributions and the ability to synthesise different viewpoints without dominating.
- —The written exercise focuses on structured analytical writing - practise drafting concise, well-organised analysis under time pressure.
- —Partner interviews probe commercial thinking deeply. Read Ashurst's recent deal announcements and be ready to discuss what they mean for the firm.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Ashurst has one of the best infrastructure and projects practices in the UK - this is genuinely world-class work that you won't get exposure to at all firms.
The firm's Australia/Asia-Pacific connection is real - if Pacific secondments appeal, mention this early in your application.
Trainees at Ashurst note that partners are genuinely approachable and invest real time in trainee development beyond formal supervision.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Ashurst
Ashurst funds SQE preparation and exam fees for all trainees. The specific provider and maintenance arrangements are confirmed at offer stage. The firm's HR team can provide current funding details on request.
The Full Picture
The full qualification journey
TC + SQE — here's the complete path from application to the roll.
SQE1 and SQE2 steps link to live pass rate data. Full SQE explained →
Got your TC? Now plan your SQE.
Your firm covers a lot — but you still need to pass SQE1 and SQE2. Here's where to start.
FAQ
Ashurst — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Ashurst take per year?
What is the Ashurst training contract salary?
Does Ashurst fund SQE preparation?
What is the Ashurst training contract application deadline?
What does Ashurst look for in training contract applications?
What is the Ashurst assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Ashurst's official graduate recruitment portal.
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