Going Forward is a development programme, targeted at Black and other underrepresented groups, including those who have been granted refugee status or are from a recognised conflict zone, to help them succeed in the early stages of their career. You’ll take part in our bespoke virtual commercial awareness series, access one-to-one coaching and build a relationship with your dedicated buddy. This will put you in the best possible position to secure a Vacation Scheme with us.

Key Dates and Eligibility

Eligibility:

• Current penultimate-year and final-year undergraduates, postgraduate students and graduates currently living in the UK or Ireland
• Consistent 2:1 across all undergraduate degree modules
• Have been granted refugee status or are in the process of claiming asylum (*You must have UK Home Office documentation showing your status) OR originally from a country/region which is a recognised conflict zone/experiencing humanitarian disaster
• Black and other underrepresented backgrounds

Application Process:

• Short application form including work experience and extracurriculars
• Cover letter. You should consider including the following in your cover letter: your interest in Linklaters and commercial law, why you are interested in the programme and a bit about yourself/your background, what you are hoping to achieve during the programme and what skills you would like to build upon
• Online Capp assessment
• Watson Glaser Critical Thinking Test
• Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a video interview

Start Dates:

• Development series: Virtual sessions throughout August – November 2026

Application deadline:
Thursday, 4 June 2026 at 22:59 (UTC)
(i) Times are displayed in your local time zone