Training Contract at Simmons & Simmons
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons is a leading international law firm with particular strength in asset management, financial markets regulation, and intellectual property. The firm operates from over 20 offices across Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Simmons & Simmons has a collaborative and relatively relaxed culture compared to Magic Circle peers. The firm is known for a strong IP and TMT practice, attracting trainees with technology and innovation interests. Trainees report accessible partners and genuine involvement in client work.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Simmons & Simmons funds SQE preparation — Simmons & Simmons funds SQE preparation in full, including course fees and SRA exam fees. Use our SQE Cost Calculator to understand what you may still need to cover.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
Selection Criteria
What Simmons & Simmons looks for
Academic requirements
2:1 or above in any subject. Science or technology backgrounds are valued given the firm's IP and fintech practices.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Tech, finance, or science backgrounds are particularly valued. Vacation scheme experience at S&S preferred.
The Process
Application timeline
Both vacation scheme and direct TC applications accepted.
Verbal, numerical, and situational judgement testing.
Group exercise, written exercise, and partner interview.
Primary TC pipeline.
How to Win
Application tips for Simmons & Simmons
Reference the asset management or fintech practice explicitly if these interest you - these are genuine differentiators for the firm.
Technology and science backgrounds are actively valued here; use relevant STEM experience as a positive.
The firm is strong in continental Europe - international experience is a plus.
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
- 2Psychometric tests
- 3Video interview
- 4Assessment centre
Interview tips
- —Prepare commercial examples from financial services or technology.
- —Show awareness of regulatory trends in financial services.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
The IP team is one of the best in the City - candidates with science degrees are genuinely sought after here.
International secondments are available, particularly to Amsterdam and Paris.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Simmons & Simmons
Simmons & Simmons funds SQE preparation in full, including course fees and SRA exam fees. The firm uses BPP as its primary appointed SQE provider. A maintenance grant is paid during the study period prior to starting the training contract.
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
Simmons & Simmons — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Simmons & Simmons take per year?
What is the Simmons & Simmons training contract salary?
Does Simmons & Simmons fund SQE preparation?
What is the Simmons & Simmons training contract application deadline?
What does Simmons & Simmons look for in training contract applications?
What is the Simmons & Simmons assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Simmons & Simmons's official graduate recruitment portal.
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