Training Contract at Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
The Firm
About Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Weil is one of the world's leading law firms, especially renowned for its restructuring and private equity practices. The London office has a strong PE and finance focus and takes a selective annual intake.
Weil has a collegiate culture and invests in associate training. It is demanding but has a reputation for respecting its people more than some pure New York-model competitors. The restructuring practice provides unusual exposure for London trainees.
Key Numbers
Training contract at a glance
Weil, Gotshal & Manges funds SQE preparation — Weil funds SQE preparation in full for London trainees, covering course fees 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 Weil, Gotshal & Manges looks for
Academic requirements
Strong 2:1 or first. Commercial acuity matters as much as academic grades.
Core values they screen for
Experience & background
Finance or transactional work experience is valued. Demonstrate awareness of Weil's restructuring practice specifically.
The Process
Application timeline
Apply via the firm's online portal.
Multi-round partner interview process.
Offers typically given within 2–4 weeks of final interview.
How to Win
Application tips for Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Weil's restructuring practice is globally renowned - knowledge of insolvency and restructuring law and deal structures is a genuine differentiator.
The firm has a strong PE focus - demonstrate understanding of the London PE market.
SQE tip: Some firms view positively candidates already preparing for SQE1 — it signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
Assessment
Interview & assessment format
Process stages
- 1Written application
- 2First-round partner interview
- 3Second-round partner interview
Interview tips
- —Prepare detailed knowledge of recent Weil restructuring mandates.
- —Show awareness of cross-border restructuring dynamics.
Insider Knowledge
Insider tips
Observations from those who know the firm well.
Restructuring secondment opportunities are genuinely available and career-defining.
The firm has one of the best restructuring practices for London trainees.
Qualification Costs
SQE funding at Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Weil funds SQE preparation in full for London trainees, covering course fees 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
Weil, Gotshal & Manges — frequently asked questions
How many trainees does Weil, Gotshal & Manges take per year?
What is the Weil, Gotshal & Manges training contract salary?
Does Weil, Gotshal & Manges fund SQE preparation?
What is the Weil, Gotshal & Manges training contract application deadline?
What does Weil, Gotshal & Manges look for in training contract applications?
What is the Weil, Gotshal & Manges assessment centre format?
Ready to apply?
Applications go directly to Weil, Gotshal & Manges's official graduate recruitment portal.
Apply at Weil, Gotshal & MangesOpens in a new tab — you will leave The Qualified Path.
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