Training Contract at Clifford Chance
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance is one of the five Magic Circle firms and one of the largest law firms in the world by revenue. Known for its strength in financial law, international transactions, and cross-border deals, the firm operates across 23 countries with more than 30 offices worldwide.
The firm has a reputation for high performance and a demanding culture typical of Magic Circle practice. Trainees often note strong mentorship programmes, international secondment opportunities, and a collaborative approach within practice groups. Pro bono work and diversity initiatives are prominently featured in the firm's graduate recruitment.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Clifford Chance funds SQE preparation — Clifford Chance funds the full SQE preparation course (via their appointed provider) and pays SQE1 and SQE2 exam fees in full. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
Selection Criteria
What Clifford Chance looks for
Academic requirements
A 2:1 degree (or predicted) in any subject. The firm does not require a law degree but values academic rigour and intellectual curiosity. GDL/PGDL conversion is fully funded.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Work experience in a professional services or commercial environment is valued but not required. Vacation scheme experience at CC is strongly preferred for direct training contract applications.
The Process
Application timeline
Apply for the summer vacation scheme - this is the primary pipeline for TC offers.
Situational judgement tests and verbal reasoning.
Group exercises, written tasks, and partner interview.
3-week scheme; TC offers typically made at the end.
For candidates who have not completed a vacation scheme.
How to Win
Application tips for Clifford Chance
Demonstrate genuine commercial awareness - read the FT and understand what drives CC's practice areas, particularly banking and capital markets.
The CC application asks for specific motivation for the firm; avoid generic 'global reach' answers. Reference specific deals, pro bono projects, or practice area strengths.
Vacation scheme applications are far more competitive than direct TC applications. The scheme is the primary TC pipeline - prioritise it.
Some Magic Circle firms have historically valued candidates who have already passed or are preparing for SQE1. Demonstrating you understand the SQE route shows commitment to qualification.
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 and CV review
- 2Situational judgement test (online)
- 3Video interview (competency-based)
- 4Assessment centre: group exercise, written exercise, partner interview
Interview tips
- —Prepare two or three substantial examples for each competency - teamwork, commercial awareness, problem-solving.
- —The partner interview will include a commercial case study; practise structuring your analysis before presenting.
- —Dress formally and treat the assessment centre as a client-facing environment from the moment you arrive.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The firm runs one of the most structured seat rotation systems in the Magic Circle. Research which seats align with your practice area interests before interview.
Clifford Chance has a strong secondment culture - client secondments and international seats are genuinely available to most trainees.
The Clifford Chance Foundation's pro bono programme gives trainees meaningful exposure to social welfare law from early in training.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Clifford Chance
Clifford Chance funds the full SQE preparation course (via their appointed provider) and pays SQE1 and SQE2 exam fees in full. Maintenance grants are provided during study periods. Check your offer letter for specific terms as funding arrangements can change.
Preferred SQE provider: BPP University Law School
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
Clifford Chance — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Clifford Chance take per year?
What is the Clifford Chance training contract salary?
Does Clifford Chance fund SQE preparation?
What is the Clifford Chance training contract application deadline?
What does Clifford Chance look for in training contract applications?
What is the Clifford Chance assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Clifford Chance's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Clifford ChanceOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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