Training Contract at Macfarlanes
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Macfarlanes
Macfarlanes is one of the most selective mid-sized law firms in London - operating from a single London office with an intentionally small intake. The firm is particularly strong in private equity, corporate M&A, and tax, with a distinctive private client practice serving ultra-high-net-worth individuals.
With fewer than 50 trainees per year, Macfarlanes has an intimate and collegial culture. Trainees get early responsibility and direct partner access. The firm is known for retaining most of its qualifying associates and has high NQ satisfaction rates.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Macfarlanes funds SQE preparation — Macfarlanes funds SQE1 and SQE2 preparation in full, including course fees 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 Macfarlanes looks for
Academic requirements
Consistently strong academics - typically a first or strong 2:1. The firm looks for intellectual depth over breadth.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Vacation scheme is the standard route. Private equity or corporate experience is noted favourably. The firm looks for candidates who have specifically researched Macfarlanes rather than casting a generic Magic/Silver Circle net.
The Process
Application timeline
Small intake - apply early.
Typically two interviews, including a commercial discussion.
2-week scheme; most offers made on completion.
Small number of direct TC places.
How to Win
Application tips for Macfarlanes
Be clear about why Macfarlanes specifically - the small, single-office model is deliberately different from Magic Circle; candidates who are positive about this difference stand out.
Private equity knowledge is particularly valued given the firm's practice mix.
The firm retains a high proportion of trainees - demonstrating long-term ambition is important.
SQE tip: Some firms view positively candidates already preparing for SQE1 — it signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
Assessment
Interview & assessment format
Process stages
- 1Written application
- 2First-round partner interview (competency + commercial)
- 3Second-round partner interview (case study)
Interview tips
- —Expect detailed commercial questions, not just competency examples.
- —Research specific Macfarlanes transactions reported in legal press.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The private client practice is genuinely unusual for a corporate firm of this size - candidates with wealth management or tax interest should highlight this.
The firm has very high retention - qualifying here often means a long-term career.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Macfarlanes
Macfarlanes funds SQE1 and SQE2 preparation in full, including course fees and SRA exam registration fees. A maintenance grant is provided during the pre-TC SQE study period.
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
Macfarlanes — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Macfarlanes take per year?
What is the Macfarlanes training contract salary?
Does Macfarlanes fund SQE preparation?
What is the Macfarlanes training contract application deadline?
What does Macfarlanes look for in training contract applications?
What is the Macfarlanes assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Macfarlanes's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at MacfarlanesOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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