Application Process

At Linklaters, we offer a wide range of programmes and opportunities for every stage of your legal journey. Whether you are a student, graduate or career changer, you can find out all you need to know about our application process and key attributes we are looking for. We understand that applying may feel daunting and time-consuming but we'll do everything we can to make it an enjoyable experience.

Selection is mutual. It allows us to find out more about you. But it's also an opportunity for you to decide whether we’re right for you. So, ask questions, allow time to think and do your research. 

Remember too, that you don't need to decide where to apply right away. Talk to us, find out more about what we do and what we can do for you. On our events page, you'll find a calendar of our upcoming law fairs, presentations and workshops. Ask us anything, and we promise to give you a straight answer.

So, what are we looking for?

Mindset matters. We exist to help our clients’ businesses succeed, no matter what. In a climate of great change – commercial, political and economic – that means evolving and adapting at pace to stay ahead. So, we’re looking for candidates with an agile mindset, and the ability to match. Motivated and resilient but also capable and collaborative. Consider that when completing the online assessment, taking a test or meeting us face to face.

Here is our agile mindset framework:

Applying

First things first: We're looking for people with a strong intellect and so if you're applying to one our schemes you'll need an academic track record to demonstrate this. You'll be on track for at least a 2:1 degree, in any STEM discipline. 

Application Process

Our application process is straightforward and been designed to give you a realistic insight into the role of a trainee solicitor.

1. Complete a short online form with your basic information, contextual data and academic report which will take no longer than 30 minutes.
2. For Get Ahead, Going Forward and Making Links you will also be asked to submit a one-page cover letter as part of your application. This should include your motivations for Linklaters, commercial law and for the programme.
3. Next, you’ll take our online Capp assessment which is based on our agile mindset framework. You’ll work through six modules, gaining a realistic insight into the role of a Linklaters trainee. The test is untimed but should take between 70-90 minutes to complete. Once submitted, you will receive a personalised feedback report detailing your strengths and a development area. You must complete the Capp assessment prior to the deadline. No preparation is required for the Capp assessment.
4. Once you have submitted the Capp assessment, you will have 5 days to complete the online Watson Glaser critical thinking test. The test is untimed, and we would strongly advise completing a practice test for the Watson Glaser.

The Trainee Recruitment team wait until the deadline has passed and all assessments to be completed before making decisions.