Law vacation schemes 2025

A law vacation scheme is a short-term work experience placement at a firm, where students and graduates can experience what life as a lawyer could look like.

During a law vacation scheme, you’ll likely be given the chance to work on real tasks and get a feel of the culture at the firm. Law firms also often use vacation schemes as an opportunity to find students for training contracts.

Before applying for anything, you’ll want to do your research – we recommend having a look at each law firms’ organisation hub on targetjobs, where you’ll find things like:

• Whether the firm you’re interested in offers vacation schemes
• The entry requirements
• The application process/procedures
• When the vacation schemes run

For a full breakdown, have a look at our why and when to apply for vacation schemes in law firms guide .

Typically, you’d apply for a vacation scheme in the second year of your degree if you’re a law student, or the third year of your degree if you’re a non-law student, but some firms encourage applications from people at different stages of their legal career. Your best bet would be to check the individual requirements of each firm to avoid missing out.

Law vacation schemes can last between one week and a month. They’re typically one or two weeks long, but this will depend on the law firm.

Applications for spring/summer law vacation schemes will generally open in October, and close at the end of January. Applications for winter vacation schemes also open in October but will typically close in November.

Open dates could vary depending on the firm, so your best bet is to double-check the deadline for each firm you want to apply for.