Application Questions

How do I apply?

You must complete our online application form. Please note that we cannot accept paper applications and CV's. You will find a link to the online application form in the left hand side.

When can I expect to hear about the outcome of my application?

Once your application has been submitted you will receive an e-mail confirming that it has been received along with a link to an online verbal reasoning test which must be completed in order for your application to be considered. We aim to advise all candidates of the outcome of their application within 3 weeks of the deadline.

Do you consider non-law applicants?

We welcome applications from non-law graduates, in fact, 50% of our current trainees come from a non-law background. Recent trainees have joined us after studying for degrees in Biological Sciences, History, English, Modern & Medieval Languages and Philosophy.

I did not achieve the required results at A Level/degree (or equivalent) can I apply for a training contract?

Ideally, candidates should have grades A – B at A' Level or equivalent, as well as a minimum 2:1 degree grade in any discipline.  However, if you do not meet this criteria and there are exceptional circumstances, you should provide a clear account in the extenuating circumstances section.

How do I update my application form?

You can update your application form online by clicking the link on the left hand side and entering your username and password. Please note that you will only be able to update limited information and will not be able to update your answers to the questions.

I've already graduated; can I apply for a vacation scheme/training contract?

Yes, although you must be able to commence a training contract in two years time.

What is your policy regarding feedback?

Due to the large volume of applications received for training contacts and the vacation scheme we are unable to give feedback at the application stage. We are able to provide constructive feedback to candidates who have attended an assessment day with us.

I've already attended an assessment centre, can I reapply?

We are only able to offer candidates one opportunity at assessment centre each recruitment year.

Training contract questions

When is the deadline for training contract applications?

Applications must be submitted online by 31 July 2010.

How many trainees do you recruit per year?

We recruit approximately 20 trainees per year.

How many intakes do you have a year?

We have an intake in September and March each year. An induction course for trainees is held one week before your legal training begins.

Which offices are training contracts offered in?

Training contracts are offered in our Bristol, London and Thames Valley offices. 

When can I expect to attend an assessment day for training contracts?

Training contract assessments take place throughout August.

If I am offered a training contract, would I be able to defer my start date?

Unfortunately we are unable to offer deferred start dates. If you would like to take a year out you would need to apply for a training contract the following year.

Can I apply for a training contract if I haven't been on a vacation scheme with the firm?

Yes. It can be difficult to gain a place on our vacation scheme and therefore we do not penalise candidates who have not had work experience with us.



General questions

Do you mind where I study for the GDL/LPC?

We prefer our sponsored trainees to attend an institution near to the office where they have accepted a training contract, and recommend that they study at the University of the West of England or the College of Law. However, we appreciate that there are a variety of factors which influence tour choice of institution and we are happy for our future trainees to discuss with us if they have an institution they would prefer to attend.

What sponsorship do you offer for the GDL/LPC?

If your application is successful, then we will pay your tuition fees for the GDL and LPC provided you are not more than half way through the course at the point of accepting our training contract offer. We will also offer a maintenance grant of £6,500 per course.

Do you specify which electives I should choose on the LPC?

We ask all Osborne Clarke trainees to study the corporate route on the LPC. This will mean that you choose corporate electives, for example, mergers and acquisitions.

Will I be guaranteed a job on qualification?

There are no arrangements for the automatic employment of trainee solicitors after the training contract is completed. An offer of employment will depend entirely on the degree of success that you have achieved and, equally as importantly, whether or not there is a vacancy for the type of work that you wish to do.

Do you offer secondments?

Yes, during your training contract you will have the opportunity to apply for a seat on secondment to a corporate client.

I'm looking for paralegal opportunities - how do I apply?

Our paralegal opportunities are managed by our experienced hire recruitment team. All vacancies are advertised on the careers section of our website.