Training Contract at Sidley Austin
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Sidley Austin
Sidley Austin is one of the larger US firms in London, with over 135 solicitors and 32 active trainees. The firm holds strong rankings in investment funds, structured finance, and energy — practice areas where it genuinely competes at the top of the market. Trainees describe a culture that is notably less hierarchical than comparable US firms, with accessible partners and a 20-hour pro bono annual commitment.
Frequently described as "unpretentious" relative to peers with comparable NQ salaries. The culture rewards early responsibility and commercial curiosity. The pro bono programme is coordinated by a dedicated counsel rather than being left to individual associates.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Sidley Austin funds SQE preparation — Full SQE1 and SQE2 fees plus a £20,000 maintenance grant. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Selection Criteria
What Sidley Austin looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above in any subject.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Investment funds and structured finance are flagship areas. Interest in energy and regulatory adds breadth.
The Process
Application timeline
All TCs awarded via vacation scheme — check sidleycareers.com for exact dates.
How to Win
Application tips for Sidley Austin
Sidley recruits exclusively via vacation scheme — all applications go through sidleycareers.com.
Investment funds and structured finance are genuine market leaders; applicants focused on these areas (not just generic M&A) fare better.
The accessible culture is a real differentiator from Magic Circle and some other US firms — be ready to explain why that environment appeals to you.
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/associate interview
Interview tips
- —Research Sidley's investment funds and structured finance rankings specifically.
- —The 20-hour pro bono commitment is taken seriously — have genuine examples of public interest work.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The energy practice is a growing focus in the London office — particularly relevant given the transition to renewables.
Sidley's Brussels office provides EU regulatory secondment opportunities that are increasingly valuable post-Brexit.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Sidley Austin
Full SQE1 and SQE2 fees plus a £20,000 maintenance grant. PGDL also covered 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
Sidley Austin — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Sidley Austin take per year?
What is the Sidley Austin training contract salary?
Does Sidley Austin fund SQE preparation?
What is the Sidley Austin training contract application deadline?
What does Sidley Austin look for in training contract applications?
What is the Sidley Austin assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Sidley Austin's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Sidley AustinOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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