Training Contract at Hogan Lovells
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
About Hogan Lovells
Hogan Lovells is a major international law firm known for its regulatory, government, and life sciences practices alongside strong corporate and finance capabilities. The firm operates across 45+ offices in 26 countries and has a distinctive dual-HQ structure across London and Washington DC.
Hogan Lovells is widely noted for a more collaborative and accessible culture compared to Magic Circle firms. Trainees commonly cite approachable partners and a genuinely supportive training environment. The firm consistently ranks highly in graduate satisfaction surveys and has a strong reputation for work-life balance relative to its size.
Training contract at a glance
Hogan Lovells funds SQE preparation - Hogan Lovells funds SQE preparation courses and exam fees for all trainees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover personally.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
What Hogan Lovells looks for
Academics
A 2:1 in any subject. The firm is genuinely open to non-law graduates and values transferable skills from a wide range of academic backgrounds.
Core values they screen for
Experience
Professional or commercial experience of any kind is valued. The firm places weight on extra-curricular activities and evidence of initiative outside academics.
Application timeline
Apply for spring and summer vacation schemes.
Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
Interview, case study, and written exercise.
Spring (1 week) and summer (2 weeks) schemes available.
Direct TC applications also considered.
Application tips for Hogan Lovells
Hogan Lovells distinguishes itself through its regulatory and life sciences practice - if these genuinely interest you, this is a meaningful differentiator from Magic Circle applications.
Culture questions are important: interviewers are assessing whether you'll thrive in a collaborative, approachable environment. Avoid answers that suggest you only care about prestige.
Hogan Lovells has a strong diversity commitment. Widening participation candidates are actively encouraged to apply and supported through the process.
Some trainees note that HL recruits prefer candidates who understand the full qualification journey including SQE. Being able to discuss how the TC and SQE interact shows genuine preparation.
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
- 2Watson Glaser critical thinking test
- 3Assessment centre: case study presentation, competency interview, written exercise
Interview tips
- •The Watson Glaser test requires practise - it's a specific format that rewards familiarity. Use free online resources to prepare thoroughly before sitting it.
- •The case study exercise tests commercial thinking more than legal knowledge - structure your analysis clearly.
- •Interviewers at Hogan Lovells genuinely probe culture fit - be authentic rather than performing what you think they want to hear.
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The firm's life sciences and regulatory practices are genuinely world-class. If healthcare or pharma law interests you, Hogan Lovells is one of the best places to train.
Hogan Lovells has a strong pro bono culture, with trainees regularly involved in meaningful projects from early in their training contract.
The dual-HQ structure means US secondments are genuinely available - raise this at interview if transatlantic work appeals to you.
SQE funding at Hogan Lovells
Hogan Lovells funds SQE preparation courses and exam fees for all trainees. The firm has historically worked with BPP. A maintenance grant is provided during study leave. Check your offer letter for the specific current terms as arrangements can change.
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 Hogan Lovells's official graduate recruitment portal.
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