Training Contract at Mayer Brown
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Mayer Brown
Mayer Brown holds Band 1 Chambers rankings for construction litigation and asset-based lending — areas where it genuinely leads the market. With around 15 trainees per year from a London office of 90+ partners, the cohort is large enough for a structured programme but small enough that trainees build meaningful relationships across the firm. The NextGen initiative connects junior lawyers directly with clients through global networking events.
Collaborative and accessible. Described as sitting in a "Goldilocks" position — large enough for top-tier work, small enough to avoid anonymity. The firm has a genuinely flexible seat structure where trainees can tailor rotations around interests.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Mayer Brown funds SQE preparation — Full SQE fees plus a £20,000 maintenance grant. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Selection Criteria
What Mayer Brown looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above in any subject.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Interest in finance, real estate, or construction litigation is valued. Client secondments and Paris/Brussels seats available.
The Process
Application timeline
Check mayerbrownfutures.com for exact dates.
How to Win
Application tips for Mayer Brown
Construction litigation and asset finance are market leaders — if those areas interest you, reference them specifically.
The flexible seat structure rewards applicants who can demonstrate broad commercial awareness rather than a narrow practice focus.
International secondments to Paris and Brussels are available — language skills are a genuine asset.
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
- 2Vacation scheme selection
- 3Partner interview
Interview tips
- —Research the construction litigation and asset-based lending practices before interview.
- —The NextGen client programme is worth mentioning — it shows awareness of how the firm differentiates junior development.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The Band 1 construction litigation practice sees trainees working on disputes you would not encounter at many larger firms.
Mayer Brown's real estate finance practice is particularly active — a good seat choice for candidates interested in property and banking.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Mayer Brown
Full SQE fees plus a £20,000 maintenance grant. PGDL also covered with a £15,000 maintenance grant for non-law graduates.
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
Mayer Brown — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Mayer Brown take per year?
What is the Mayer Brown training contract salary?
Does Mayer Brown fund SQE preparation?
What is the Mayer Brown training contract application deadline?
What does Mayer Brown look for in training contract applications?
What is the Mayer Brown assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Mayer Brown's official graduate recruitment portal.
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