Should you have any questions that are not answered here, please feel free to contact our Graduate Recruitment Team.
I have BBB at A-level; can I still apply for a vacation scheme or training contract at Covington & Burling LLP?
We ask that applicants have achieved a ABB at A Level (128 UCAS points or equivalent) and have obtained or are on track to obtain a 2.1 degree. If you have extenuating circumstances which means you do not meet this requirement, you may still apply.
I did not study in the UK; how do I complete the application form?
Please include all equivalent qualifications (e.g., GCSEs, A-levels and undergraduate degree) in the relevant section of the application form, providing as much detail as possible as to how the qualifications and grades compare.
Who is eligible to apply for a place on one of your vacation schemes?
Our vacation schemes are open to candidates from any degree discipline. Law students can apply from their penultimate year and non- law students can apply from their final year of study. We also welcome applications from those undertaking their GDL and LPC, as well as candidates who are further down their career path.
Do I need to complete a legal work experience placement or vacation scheme before applying for a training contract?
No, you do not need to have completed legal work experience or a vacation scheme before applying to Covington, as long as you can demonstrate the qualities we are looking for in our trainees. These qualities and skills can be displayed in a variety of ways, not just by completing legal work experience. However, vacation schemes offer an excellent insight into a firm, as well as enabling candidates to determine whether or not a career in law is right for them. We would therefore encourage all candidates to complete some form of legal work experience ahead of applying for a training contract to ensure they fully understand the career path they have chosen.
Who do I address the covering letter to in my application form?
Please address the covering letter to "The Graduate Recruitment Team."
Do you review applications on a rolling basis?
We do not recruit on a rolling basis, all applications are reviewed once the deadline for the position has passed.
When can I expect to hear the outcome of my application?
You will receive an instant acknowledgement of your application upon submission. We aim to review all applications within three weeks after the deadline.
Can I receive feedback on my application if I am unsuccessful?
Due to the large number of applications we receive, we are only able to provide detailed feedback to candidates who have attended an interview or an assessment day.
I attended an interview for a vacation scheme last year but was unsuccessful. Can I apply again?
Candidates who have previously applied, including those who have previously attended an interview, can reapply the following year. However, candidates must be able to demonstrate how their application has developed since they last applied to the firm.
How can I stand out throughout the application process?
1. Tailor your application
Do your research to gain an understanding of what trainee life at Covington would be like. Attend some of our events, and search the website to gain an understanding of what makes Covington unique and explain why this appeals to you. We want to hear about you, so make sure to tell us about both your legal and non-legal experience and how those transferable skills would make you a great trainee at the firm.
2. Show us you can write like a lawyer
Demonstrate strong written communication skills throughout your application form. As a lawyer you will need to communicate complex ideas clearly and succinctly, show us that you are already developing those skills throughout your application form.
3. Get the basics right
Do not copy and paste from one application to the next, and make sure that you proof read your application before submission. Small spelling and grammatical mistakes can let down an otherwise strong application.
4. Be a team player
Our trainee intakes are small so you will play a significant role in teams from early on and will be relied upon to deliver. Show us throughout the application process that you have the ability to work well in a team and can work towards a common goal.
5. Be yourself
We look for trainees who are well rounded, so don’t be afraid to let your personality and passions shine throughout the application process. Our trainees are all different, feel free to discuss your life experiences and interests to make yourself stand out.
Additional Support
If you require any additional support throughout the recruitment process, please do not hesitate to reach out to the Graduate Recruitment team: graduate@cov.com.
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