International

Training Contract at DLA Piper

Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.

60 trainees/year
£44,000 trainee salary
Deadline: 31 July 2026
Funds SQE

The Firm

About DLA Piper

DLA Piper is one of the largest law firms in the world by number of lawyers and revenue. It operates a genuinely global full-service model across more than 40 countries, with particular strength in real estate, corporate, and technology law.

DLA has a large, diverse culture with genuine global reach. The firm is less hierarchical than Magic Circle firms and has a reputation for entrepreneurial thinking and cross-sector practice. Trainees often work across multiple jurisdictions from early in the TC.

Corporate/M&AReal EstateFinanceEmploymentIP/TechDisputes

Key Numbers

Training contract at a glance

Annual intake
60
trainees
Seat rotations
4
seats over 2 years
Trainee salary
£44,000
per year
NQ salary
£95,000
on qualification
Min. degree
2:1 (or equivalent)
required
Deadline
31 July 2026
application closes
Once you secure your TC, you still need to pass the SQE

DLA Piper funds SQE preparation — DLA Piper funds SQE preparation for London trainees, covering course fees at an appointed provider and SRA exam registration fees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.

Preferred provider: BPP University Law School

Selection Criteria

What DLA Piper looks for

Academic requirements

2:1 or above in any subject.

Core values they screen for

Entrepreneurial thinkingCollaborationGlobal outlookCommercial pragmatismAdaptability

Experience & background

Commercial experience in any sector is valued. DLA accepts applications for both vacation schemes and direct TCs.

The Process

Application timeline

Applications openNovember 2025

One of the earlier deadlines - do not miss it.

Online testsDecember 2025–January 2026

Situational judgement and verbal reasoning.

Assessment centreFebruary–March 2026

Written exercise, group work, and partner interviews.

Vacation schemeJune–July 2026

TC offers typically made at scheme end.

How to Win

Application tips for DLA Piper

1

DLA has a strong tech and TMT practice - technology industry awareness is valued.

2

The firm operates as a global platform - emphasise international ambition.

SQE tip: Some firms view positively candidates already preparing for SQE1 — it signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →

Assessment

Interview & assessment format

Process stages

  1. 1Online application
  2. 2Online assessments
  3. 3Video interview
  4. 4Assessment centre

Interview tips

  • —Show breadth of commercial interest.
  • —Prepare cross-sector commercial examples.

Insider Knowledge

Insider tips

Observations from those who know the firm well.

The real estate practice is one of the largest in London.

Cross-border matters are genuinely common from trainee level.

Qualification Costs

SQE funding at DLA Piper

DLA Piper funds SQE preparation

DLA Piper funds SQE preparation for London trainees, covering course fees at an appointed provider and SRA exam registration fees. A maintenance grant is provided during study periods. The firm uses BPP University Law School as its primary SQE provider.

Preferred SQE provider: BPP University Law School

SQE Cost Calculator →Compare SQE providers

The Full Picture

The full qualification journey

TC + SQE — here's the complete path from application to the roll.

1
TC Application
Apply to firms
2
TC Offer
Secure your place

SQE1 and SQE2 steps link to live pass rate data. Full SQE explained →

Next Step

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.

Compare SQE Providers →SQE Pass RatesTrack QWE

FAQ

DLA Piper — frequently asked questions

How many trainees does DLA Piper take per year?
DLA Piper takes approximately 60 trainees per year across 4 seat rotations over two years.
What is the DLA Piper training contract salary?
The trainee salary at DLA Piper is £44,000. Newly qualified (NQ) solicitors earn £95,000.
Does DLA Piper fund SQE preparation?
DLA Piper funds SQE preparation for London trainees, covering course fees at an appointed provider and SRA exam registration fees. A maintenance grant is provided during study periods. The firm uses BPP University Law School as its primary SQE provider. Preferred SQE provider: BPP University Law School.
What is the DLA Piper training contract application deadline?
The DLA Piper training contract application deadline is 31 July 2026. Applications are submitted directly via the firm's graduate recruitment portal.
What does DLA Piper look for in training contract applications?
DLA Piper requires a minimum 2:1 (or equivalent) degree. The firm values Entrepreneurial thinking, Collaboration, Global outlook, Commercial pragmatism, Adaptability. 2:1 or above in any subject.
What is the DLA Piper assessment centre format?
The selection process involves: Online application; Online assessments; Video interview; Assessment centre.

Ready to apply?

Applications go directly to DLA Piper's official graduate recruitment portal.

Apply at DLA Piper

Opens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.

Get SQE updates for TC holders

Exam dates, pass rate data, and funding guidance. No spam.

No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.