Training Contract

The A&O Shearman Training Contract is characterised by adaptability choice. Our training programme is meticulously designed and continually evolving to provide the foundations you need to find your strengths and develop into an exceptional lawyer. This is where talent excels. Your training will be based on four six-month rotations (known as ‘seats’), through a number of departments or practice areas. The seat structure ensures that you experience as many parts of the firm as possible and that your learning is hands-on and guided by a senior associate or partner.

You will also explore the possibility of spending a seat on an international or client secondment, which will give you the chance to grow and strengthen your network, and gain contentious experience, either by spending a seat in our Litigation department, or by completing a Litigation course and obtaining experience via legal advice clinics.

Throughout the two years of your Training Contract, we will work closely with you to ensure you have the support to reach your full potential and become a successful commercial solicitor. Due to the nature of our work, you should expect to sit in one-two finance seats during your Training Contract. This will align with the jobs available at qualification.

For March 2027, we welcome applications from Law Graduates eligible to start their SQE studies in Spring 2026 or Non-Law Graduates who have completed or are completing their PGDL and will be eligible to start their SQE studies in Spring 2026. For March 2028, we welcome applications from Non-Law Graduates who can start their PGDL studies no later than Spring 2026 and will then start their SQE studies in Spring 2027.

Qualifications

Our academic requirements are AAB (136 UCAS points) or equivalent at A-Level and on track for/achieved a 2:1 undergraduate degree. We do take into account mitigating circumstances, including those relating to a disability, which may have affected your grades either at school or university and there is a space on the application form to include these.

We are looking for candidates who can demonstrate the drive and commitment to pursue a career in commercial law. Tech-savvy and able to adapt, our well-organised trainees need to be effective team players and always eager to learn.

Benefits

Working at A&O Shearman offers an exceptional range of benefits, including season ticket and cycle-to-work loans, a health and wellbeing centre including in-house GP, physiotherapist, and dental plan, an on-site fitness centre and sports hall plus in-house beauty and wellbeing therapies, as well as access to a wide range of discounted goods and services. In the UK, we currently provide access to support through our Employee Advice Line and Private Medical Insurance. And all trainees globally have free access to our health and wellbeing apps (Headspace, Help@hand and Unmind.)

Law School Fees

When you accept our offer of a Training Contract, we will provide financial support for your law school studies.

Whether you’re applying to A&O Shearman, or any other law firm, this guide will provide you with advice, tips, and key information on application processes, interview prep, and assessment days.