Training Contract at Mishcon de Reya
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Mishcon de Reya
Mishcon de Reya is one of the UK's most prominent independent firms, handling many of the most publicly visible cases in England and Wales. It is known for complex litigation, high-profile private client work, and employment. The firm takes approximately 26 trainees per cohort across around 60 seat options, allocated via an AI-powered system that gives candidates more genuine choice than most firms offer.
High-profile and intellectually stimulating. The Mishcon Academy runs regular speaker events — from politics, business, and the arts — reflecting a broader culture of continuous learning. The firm is independent and entrepreneurial rather than part of an international network, which creates a distinctive collegiate identity.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Mishcon de Reya funds SQE preparation — Full SQE1 and SQE2 fees plus a £14,000 maintenance grant. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Selection Criteria
What Mishcon de Reya looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above in any subject.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Interest in litigation and private client work is core. Commercial disputes and high-stakes contentious matters are central to the firm's identity.
The Process
Application timeline
Applications open annually — both direct TC and vacation scheme routes available.
How to Win
Application tips for Mishcon de Reya
The AI seat-allocation system is a genuine talking point — familiarise yourself with it and be ready to discuss which practice areas you are genuinely curious about.
Mishcon's reputation is built on high-stakes litigation and private client work. Applicants who can speak credibly about commercial disputes or private wealth and law will stand out.
The Mishcon Academy speaker programme is well-publicised — referencing specific events you have attended or followed shows real engagement.
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
- 2Assessment centre
- 3Partner interview
Interview tips
- —Show genuine passion for contentious work — it is at the heart of what makes Mishcon distinctive.
- —Be ready to discuss recent high-profile cases the firm has handled.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
With 60 seat options, the breadth of choice is genuinely unusual — research the less obvious areas (IP, employment) to show intellectual range.
The firm's independence and flat structure means trainees interact with senior partners regularly — a very different dynamic from large international networks.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Mishcon de Reya
Full SQE1 and SQE2 fees plus a £14,000 maintenance grant. PGDL fully funded plus a £10,000 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
Mishcon de Reya — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Mishcon de Reya take per year?
What is the Mishcon de Reya training contract salary?
Does Mishcon de Reya fund SQE preparation?
What is the Mishcon de Reya training contract application deadline?
What does Mishcon de Reya look for in training contract applications?
What is the Mishcon de Reya assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Mishcon de Reya's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Mishcon de ReyaOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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