Black Student Lawyer Programme 2027

Our Black Student Lawyer Programme provides talented Black students with access to A&O Shearman, it provides you with the opportunities you need to expand your skills and insight into our firm.

What you’ll gain   

On this programme, you’ll be able to gain real and valuable skills you’ll use and develop throughout your career, working with industry-defining clients and industry-leading colleagues. You’ll take part in a wide range of events and presentations to gain insight into A&O Shearman’s culture and industry leading work.

Work experience

This one-week programme is designed to provide you with mentorship and work-shadowing opportunities, so you can find out what it’s really like to work at A&O Shearman; learning and developing at the highest level. You’ll work directly with a lawyer in one of our practice areas to gain real-time experience of the day-to-day life of a lawyer. In addition to this, you’ll spend time with our Early Careers Recruitment Team to develop your skills and set you up for success moving forward to our vacation scheme assessment centre.

Growth and development

This is your opportunity to learn and grow. We offer exceptional professional and personal development, through training and practical support. You’ll also receive comprehensive support from the Early Careers Recruitment team and one-to-one support from our REACH Buddy Scheme, which is operated by our Race & Ethnicity Network. Additionally, you’ll have the opportunity to attend networking sessions with our Black Heritage Network. 

What we look for

This programme gives you the opportunities you need to expand your skills and gain an insight into the culture of the firm. If you’re ambitious, curious, or open-minded; whoever you are, this programme is a chance for you to start your journey early and develop your legal expertise.

For this programme, we welcome students in their first year of a three-year (or second year of a four-year) undergraduate degree. This can be in any degree discipline. Academically, we look for AAB at A-Level (or equivalent) and that you’re on track to achieve a 2:1 in your degree. You’ll also need 7 GCSEs at grade 6 or above (including Maths and English). We take into account any mitigating circumstances, including those relating to a disability, which may have affected your grades either at school or university and there is a space on the application form to include these. 

Our application process begins with an online application and a video-based online test. If your application is successful, then you’ll be invited to a video interview, which will include a brief commercial case study.

Below are the essential skills needed to thrive on this programme. From making meaningful contributions to our team and clients, to facing legal challenges, these skills will help you excel with us. 

Curiosity

• You want to find out more about the firm, our culture, the clients we work with and the sectors we operate in.

Problem-solving

• You have an ability to break down a problem and push yourself to find the perfect solution no matter the environment. 

Collaboration

• You enjoy working in a team to complete a task or achieve a shared goal. 

Drive

• You’re prepared to tackle every challenge and overcome obstacles to achieve your goals. 

BELONG.EXCEL.

Eligibility

Students currently in the first year of a three-year (or second year of a four-year) undergraduate degree, from any degree discipline. 

Application window:  4 January – 1 March 2027