Training Contract at Baker McKenzie
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
About Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie is one of the most international law firms in the world, with over 70 offices across 46 countries. It has a particular reputation for tax, employment, and cross-border transactions, and is one of the few firms genuinely rated in all major practice areas globally.
Baker McKenzie has a notably diverse and inclusive culture, regularly topping diversity rankings among global law firms. Trainees note a collaborative environment with genuine global reach from early in the TC.
Training contract at a glance
Baker McKenzie funds SQE preparation - Baker McKenzie funds SQE1 and SQE2 preparation in full for London trainees, covering course fees and SRA exam registration fees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover personally.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
What Baker McKenzie looks for
Academics
2:1 or above. Languages are a significant advantage given the firm's global model.
Core values they screen for
Experience
International experience and languages are more valued here than at most firms. Vacation scheme preferred.
Application timeline
Vacation scheme is the main TC pipeline.
Verbal and situational judgement tests.
Group exercise, written task, and partner interview.
TC offers at scheme end.
Application tips for Baker McKenzie
If you speak a language, use it prominently in your application - it genuinely matters here.
Tax is one of Baker McKenzie's biggest differentiators - awareness of international tax policy is valued.
Note on the SQE: Some firms view positively candidates who have already passed or are actively preparing for SQE1. It signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
Interview & assessment format
Process stages
- 1Online application
- 2Online tests
- 3Assessment centre
Interview tips
- •Show genuine international perspective.
- •Be prepared to discuss cross-border tax and employment issues.
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Language skills lead to genuinely international work early in the TC.
Diversity and inclusion programmes are not performative here - they are central to the firm's culture.
SQE funding at Baker McKenzie
Baker McKenzie funds SQE1 and SQE2 preparation in full for London trainees, covering course fees and SRA exam registration fees. A maintenance grant is provided during the pre-TC study period.
Preferred SQE provider: BPP University Law School
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.
Ready to apply?
Applications are submitted directly via Baker McKenzie's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Baker McKenzieOpens in a new tab - you will leave The Qualified Path.
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