Please find below answers to some frequently asked questions in relation to our:
PERIOD OF Qualifying Work Experience
When is your next trainee intake?
We are currently recruiting trainees to commence with us in August 2028.
Do you have any places left to commence in 2027?
There are no places left in 2027.
Who can apply?
We welcome applications from both law and non-law students. We also welcome
applications from other relevant postgraduates.
Do you consider mature age applicants?
Yes, we encourage applicants of all ages.
When should I apply?
2028 Intake - The application process will be open on 1 November
2025. Apply via our
website.
How do I apply?
Applications should be submitted via our
website (http://www.cvmailuk.com/klgates/).
We use cvMail (https://fsr.cvmailuk.com/klgatesuk)
as our supplier, so if you are already registered with them you will not need to
re-input all your personal details. You can also request a paper application form
from
trainee.recruitment@klgates.com.
What grades do I need?
You will need to have achieved or be predicting a 2:1 degree and have 128 UCAS
points or the relevant academic equivalent.
Do you accept General Studies A-Level?
We do not accept a General Studies A-Level as part of the 128 UCAS point
requirement, but all other subjects are accepted.
Will my application be considered if I do not have a 2:1 degree and 128 UCAS
points?
If there are mitigating circumstances and documented reasons (i.e. illness
backed up by medical certificates) please refer to this in your application. In such
circumstances we will take account of these factors when considering your
application.
What form will the recruitment process take?
Successful applicants will be invited to attend one of our assessment days where you
will take part in a group exercise, a swift analysis test, critical reasoning test
and a written test. If successful you will be invited back in for an interview and
individual exercise—the final part of the process.
When will interviews take place?
Students will be assessed in August 2026.
How soon after the interview will I know the outcome?
We advise you of the outcome as soon as possible, generally within seven to
ten days.
How many trainees do you recruit each year?
We usually recruit up to six trainees.
If I am not successful in obtaining an interview when will I
know?
Unsuccessful candidates will be advised following the application closing date of 31
July 2026—generally we let you know by the end of September 2026.
Do you consider non-law students for a Period of Qualifying Work
Experience?
Yes. On average, approximately 40% of our trainees have not studied law as a degree.
Can I apply for a Period of Qualifying Work Experience if I do not fall
into either category of penultimate year student or final year
student?
Yes. We welcome applications from those who have decided to apply for
a Period of Qualifying Work Experience later than usual.
Do I need to apply separately for the Legal Work Placement and a Period of
Qualifying Work Experience?
Yes you will need to submit two separate online applications, however, will store
your personal and academic profile so your second application will be quicker to
complete.
Is non-law work experience relevant to my application?
Yes. All work experience is of relevance and should be included in your application.
Are trainees given regular feedback on their performance?
Yes. You will be appraised every three months during your Period of Qualifying
Work Experience, giving you plenty of opportunity to gain feedback and raise any
issues. You will also be allocated a mentor throughout your contract.
Is there any opportunity for involvement with pro bono or community
work?
Yes. The majority of trainees become involved in the firm's Pro Bono initiatives
and work as volunteers at the Battersea Legal Aid Advice Centre.
How many trainees are retained after qualification?
We like to invest a great deal in recruiting and training our trainees because we
hope they will develop a long and successful career with us. Therefore, we always
prefer to retain our trainees.
What training and career opportunities are available after
qualification?
We have a formal career development and mentoring scheme.
Do you involve trainees in business development?
You are positively encouraged to be involved in some of the many marketing and
business development events we hold throughout the year to develop client
relationships.
Will I have the opportunity to train as a solicitor advocate?
Those qualifying into Dispute Resolution are encouraged to take Higher Rights.
How much choice do I have as to which seats I do?
We aim to give you as much choice as possible, however, trainees will have seats
within core areas such as corporate, dispute resolution and real estate.
Do you sponsor the SQE?
Yes, we sponsor the SQE.
