Vacation schemes

About the scheme Our vacation schemes are not just an opportunity to see the life of a trainee associate, it’s your chance to live it. You’ll find out whether life at the firm is for you as you take on real work for real clients. You’ll work directly with expert colleagues and gain unique experience, while being supported every step of the way to develop your skills and determine your career direction.
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What you need to know

We only recruit trainee associates from our vacation schemes, and to be eligible for the schemes, you must be a graduate, or in your penultimate or final year at university. 

We recruit two years in advance. If you’re part of our 2024/25 intake, expect to start your Trainee Associate Programme in 2027 or 2028.

If you're unable to take part in a vacation scheme please contact the Early Careers team to discuss options.
How to apply

Key dates

Winter Vacation Scheme:
November/December 2024 Our winter vacation scheme is open to finalists and graduates. The scheme will run from Monday 25 November to Friday 6 December 2024.  

Applications now closed.
Spring Vacation Scheme:
April 2025
Our spring vacation scheme is open to penultimate-year students, finalists and graduates. The scheme will run from Monday 7 - Thursday 17 April 2025.
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Summer Vacation Schemes:
June – July 2025
Our summer vacation schemes are open to penultimate-year students, finalists and graduates. The schemes will run from Monday 9 – Friday 27 June 2025 and Monday 7 July – Friday 25 July 2025.
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Benefits

£500 per week salary Hard work deserves good pay. That’s why you’ll earn a competitive salary throughout your time with us on the programme.
Trainee buddy Trainee buddies are on hand to support you in each of the practice areas you sit in and share their learnings from the firm.

Related links

Your journey starts before you join us. Explore our opportunities to find out more about us and see whether a career with us is right for you.
First year Join our workshops or become a campus ambassador to gain an insight into life at Herbert Smith Freehills.
Learn more
Open days Considering a career at a world-leading law firm? Find out more about our work and culture through one of our open days.
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Trainee associate programme Our trainee associates are the future, so it’s only right that we invest in them. 
Learn more
Any questions?
View a selection of frequently asked questions about life at the firm and our range of opportunities.
FAQs