Training Contract at Herbert Smith Freehills
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills is one of the leading international law firms and a key player in the Silver Circle. Particularly known for its disputes and arbitration practice - ranked among the top three globally - and its strength in corporate, projects, and energy work across APAC, Europe, and the Middle East.
HSF has a genuinely international and inclusive culture, with strong representation across genders and backgrounds in senior roles. The firm is known for having a supportive trainee community and strong mentor relationships. The disputes-heavy practice means trainees often get earlier responsibility than at some corporate-dominant peers.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Herbert Smith Freehills funds SQE preparation — Herbert Smith Freehills funds SQE preparation fully for all trainees, covering course fees at BPP University Law School 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 Herbert Smith Freehills looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above in any subject. The firm is open to non-law candidates and funds conversion courses.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Vacation scheme is the primary TC route. Commercial experience in any sector is valued; legal work experience is a plus but not required.
The Process
Application timeline
Earlier deadline than some peers - do not miss it.
Psychometric testing and structured video interview.
Assessment centres for both routes.
Vacation scheme participants receive offers at scheme end.
How to Win
Application tips for Herbert Smith Freehills
HSF's disputes practice is world-class - candidates interested in litigation should make this explicit and demonstrate knowledge of landmark cases.
The APAC presence is central to the firm's identity; international interest is a genuine positive.
The firm runs several open days - attending signals commitment.
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
- 2Psychometric tests
- 3Video interview (competency-based)
- 4Assessment centre: case study, group exercise, partner interview
Interview tips
- —Research specific HSF deals and disputes.
- —The case study is analytical - practise structuring commercial problems.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Trainees often get contentious seat exposure early - if you want hands-on litigation experience, this is one of the best TCs for it.
The firm has a strong secondment programme to clients and international offices.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Herbert Smith Freehills
Herbert Smith Freehills funds SQE preparation fully for all trainees, covering course fees at BPP University Law School and SRA exam registration fees. The firm also provides a grant to cover living expenses during the SQE study period prior to the TC commencing.
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
Herbert Smith Freehills — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Herbert Smith Freehills take per year?
What is the Herbert Smith Freehills training contract salary?
Does Herbert Smith Freehills fund SQE preparation?
What is the Herbert Smith Freehills training contract application deadline?
What does Herbert Smith Freehills look for in training contract applications?
What is the Herbert Smith Freehills assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Herbert Smith Freehills's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Herbert Smith FreehillsOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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