We caught up with Osborne Clarke to find out more about their application process and to get exclusive insights into how you can achieve a successful application.
How to apply to Osborne Clarke
The Osborne Clarke application process is in 3 key steps:
- Application form
- Verbal Reasoning Test
- Assessment Centre
Step 1: The Application Form
The first step in the process is an online application form. This is your chance to tell us about yourself, and why you’d like to join Osborne Clarke.
The questions allow you to demonstrate not only your commercial understanding, but also showcase your skills, and give us some insight into your motivations. We’ll be looking out for signs that you have the attributes that make a great Osborne Clarke lawyer. Think about how you can evidence things including your …
- Ability to listen, learn and collaborate
- Passion for client service
- Genuine interest in the business environment
- Problem-solving approach
- Drive and motivation to succeed.
You’ll be asked about your work experience – and this doesn’t only mean legal work experience. You’ll have developed different personal skills and attributes no matter the job or sector you’ve worked in, and we’re interested in how you think you would apply these to becoming a successful lawyer.
We’ll ask about your academic achievements and strongly encourage you to opt into completing the Rare Contextual System to allow added appreciation of the context in which these have been gained.
Completing a successful application will take time and a lot of research so give yourself enough space and don’t rush it.
Tips for submitting a strong application:
Think about the bigger picture: What makes you a great candidate, and how you might make that come across in your application form? We want to get to know the person behind the application form so look beyond academia and work experience and show us what makes you unique.
Why us?: We want to know what it is about Osborne Clarke that has encouraged you to apply, so do your research and use it to tailor your answers and bring your application to life.
Get the basics right: It sounds simple, but make sure that you complete all sections of the form. And maintain consistency in your writing style, tone, and fluency
Keep it short and avoid cliché: Be succinct, using short sentences to ensure that your points are clear. Use straightforward language and avoid using buzzwords overused phrases such as “relish the opportunity”
Check, check again: Attention to detail is key, so remember to double-check your application before you submit it. Get a fresh pair of eyes in the form of a friend or family member to read through your submission - they’re likely to spot any small mistakes.
Step 2: Verbal Reasoning Test
Once your application form is in, you’ll be invited to complete an online verbal reasoning test. This aptitude test assesses your ability to understand written information and evaluate arguments based on this - a vital skill for lawyers to possess.
Step 3: Assessment Centre
If you’ve applied for a vacation scheme or training contract and been invited to attend one of our assessment centres – congratulations! You’re through to the next round.
The day consists of different elements including a group discussion, a partner interview, and a Watson Glaser test (an aptitude test that assesses your critical thinking ability). There are opportunities to network with current trainees and hear their experiences.
This assessment centre aims to find out more about you, giving us insight into your commercial awareness and understanding, communication skills, ability to work in a team, and your understanding of Osborne Clarke.
Advice to succeed…
- Be prepared: The more prepared you are, the calmer you’ll be – and the more you’ll enjoy and get something out of the day. So, we suggest reviewing your application submission, getting up to date on recent developments in the news, and doing some practice tests. That said, try to avoid being ‘over-prepared’ – we want you to show your ability to think on your feet.
- Don’t forget to enjoy yourself
- The assessment day is an excellent opportunity to network, ask questions and get to know Osborne Clarke and your potential colleagues. Bring your curiosity, stay open-minded and remember to enjoy it too.
Feel inspired to take the next step? Explore Osborne Clarke’s live opportunities here.