Training Contract at Linklaters
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
About Linklaters
Linklaters is a founding member of the Magic Circle and one of the most prestigious law firms in the world. The firm is particularly known for its corporate and M&A practice and has a strong international network spanning 29 countries.
Linklaters has invested significantly in culture initiatives in recent years, focusing on inclusion and wellbeing alongside its traditionally rigorous work environment. The firm has a collaborative reputation within practice groups and is noted for its investment in training and development programmes.
Training contract at a glance
Linklaters funds SQE preparation - Linklaters funds the full SQE preparation course and exam fees for all trainees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover personally.
What Linklaters looks for
Academics
A 2:1 degree in any discipline. The firm looks for consistent academic achievement and values students who can articulate their academic choices and interests clearly.
Core values they screen for
Experience
Commercial experience of any kind is valued. Vacation scheme applications at Linklaters are competitive - previous legal or professional services experience helps differentiate.
Application timeline
The vacation scheme is the main route to a TC at Linklaters.
Includes numerical reasoning and situational judgement tests.
Case study, group discussion, and senior lawyer interview.
2-week paid scheme; TC decisions made at the end.
Applications for direct training contract entry.
Application tips for Linklaters
Linklaters places significant weight on commercial awareness. Be ready to discuss a recent deal in the firm's core practice areas (M&A, finance) and explain its commercial significance.
The 'why Linklaters specifically?' question is critical. Vague answers about global reach do not distinguish you - reference specific practice strengths, recent deals, or client relationships.
Applications that reference SQE preparation and show an understanding of the qualification pathway are viewed positively. Knowing that the firm funds SQE and which provider they use signals genuine commitment.
The vacation scheme is heavily oversubscribed. Apply early and ensure your initial application is error-free and tailored to Linklaters specifically.
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
- 2Verbal and numerical reasoning tests
- 3Video interview
- 4Assessment centre: written case study, group exercise, partner interview
Interview tips
- •Practise case study analysis under timed conditions - you will need to structure your thinking quickly and present clearly.
- •The group exercise rewards constructive participation, not dominance. Show you can build on others' ideas.
- •Be prepared to discuss why Linklaters specifically, and not another Magic Circle firm - interviewers probe firm-specific motivation carefully.
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Linklaters has one of the most comprehensive international secondment programmes in the Magic Circle - raise your interest in international seats during the interview.
The firm has invested heavily in legal technology and process improvement - demonstrating interest in this space is a genuine differentiator.
Trainees note that the seat allocation process is competitive for the most popular seats (corporate, finance). Articulate your first and second choice seats clearly from the start.
SQE funding at Linklaters
Linklaters funds the full SQE preparation course and exam fees for all trainees. A maintenance grant is typically provided during the study period. The firm has a preferred provider arrangement - confirm the current provider with your graduate recruitment contact at offer stage.
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 Linklaters's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at LinklatersOpens in a new tab - you will leave The Qualified Path.
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