Training Contract at Weil, Gotshal & Manges
Application guide, insider tips, and SQE funding details for 2026.
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.
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 personally.
Preferred provider: BPP University Law School
What Weil, Gotshal & Manges looks for
Academics
Strong 2:1 or first. Commercial acuity matters as much as academic grades.
Core values they screen for
Experience
Finance or transactional work experience is valued. Demonstrate awareness of Weil's restructuring practice specifically.
Application timeline
Apply via the firm's online portal.
Multi-round partner interview process.
Offers typically given within 2–4 weeks of final interview.
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.
Note on the SQE: Some firms view positively candidates who have already passed or are actively preparing for SQE1. It signals commitment to qualification. SQE explained →
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 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.
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 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.
Ready to apply?
Applications are submitted directly via 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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