Apply

We hope you will apply to our London programmes.

 
Your Application Journey

Successful candidates will be offered a two year Training Contract/QWE following the Winter or Summer Vacation Scheme to commence in August/September 2026. Non-law students will commence their PGDL studies in Autumn 2024 and all students study together as one cohort for the SQE from Autumn 2025.

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 entail. Try 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 these 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 proofread 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 and you will play a significant role within your practice groups from early in your career. Show us that you already have the ability to work well and contribute to teams.

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.

Reasons to Join Covington

Collegiality

Students often remark on how friendly and down to earth the people at Covington are. We are proud that Covington is a place where you can bring your ‘whole self’ to work and work alongside passionate, like-minded peers.

Responsibility

Trainees gain exposure to complex problems, early in their career. Trainees are relied upon as valued team members and contribute to client work from their first seat.

Open door policy

It’s part of our culture that everyone has a voice. If you have an idea or question you can walk into anyone’s office and voice it. If your idea is a good one, you will have the support to run with it.

Meaningful work

Our people are passionate about what they do, which makes them great people to learn from. You can gain exposure to areas of law that you are enthusiastic about.

Frequently Asked Questions

I do not meet your minimum grade requirements, can I still apply?

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 provide details of all equivalent exams taken.

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/PGDL, LPC and SQE as well as candidates who are further down their career path.

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.

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 applied for one of your programmes 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.

Do you sponsor visas for your Vacation Schemes?

We do not provide visa sponsorship for our Vacation Scheme programmes. You must have an immigration status that permits employment in the UK to apply.

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.