Training Contract at Pinsent Masons
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Pinsent Masons
Pinsent Masons is a full-service international law firm with particular strength in infrastructure, projects, and technology. Operating across 25 offices worldwide, the firm is known for its sector-led approach and genuine expertise in construction and engineering law.
Pinsent Masons has a strong reputation for culture and inclusion - it was the first law firm in the world to achieve the Business in the Community gender equality benchmark. The firm has a collaborative, relatively non-hierarchical environment compared to Magic Circle peers.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Pinsent Masons funds SQE preparation — Pinsent Masons funds SQE preparation for all trainees in full, covering course fees at an appointed provider 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 Pinsent Masons looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above. Science or engineering backgrounds are actively sought for construction and infrastructure practices.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Engineering, construction, or tech backgrounds are valued. The firm accepts both vacation scheme and direct TC applications.
The Process
Application timeline
Apply specifying preferred office location.
Psychometric testing and video interview.
Includes a case study, group exercise, and partner interview.
Rolling offers made across assessment centre cycle.
How to Win
Application tips for Pinsent Masons
Infrastructure and construction knowledge are genuinely differentiating at Pinsent Masons - research major UK infrastructure projects.
The firm's tech and legal technology work is leading edge - technology interest is valued.
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
- 2Online tests
- 3Video interview
- 4Assessment centre (case study, group, partner interview)
Interview tips
- —Prepare sector-specific commercial knowledge.
- —Show awareness of infrastructure finance and public procurement.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The construction and engineering practice is one of the best in the UK.
The firm is genuinely progressive on gender equality - it has backed this up with measurable action.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Pinsent Masons
Pinsent Masons funds SQE preparation for all trainees in full, covering course fees at an appointed provider and SRA exam registration fees. A maintenance grant is provided during the pre-TC 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
Pinsent Masons — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Pinsent Masons take per year?
What is the Pinsent Masons training contract salary?
Does Pinsent Masons fund SQE preparation?
What is the Pinsent Masons training contract application deadline?
What does Pinsent Masons look for in training contract applications?
What is the Pinsent Masons assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Pinsent Masons's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Pinsent MasonsOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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