Allen & Overy

An environment you will thrive in

Individuality.  There's no such thing as a typical Allen & Overy candidate.  Quite the opposite in fact.  We're open-minded and interested in people who share that quality.

We are looking for individuals who can demonstrate strong academic performance - you'll be heading for at least a 2(i), in any degree discipline, and have 340 UCAS points (AAB) at A-level (or equivalent).  But beyond this we want to see evidence of teamwork, communication skills, planning and organisation, problem solving, commercial awareness and commitment - to a career in law, and to a career with A&O. 

Motivation, both for a career as a solicitor and for working at A&O, is very important.  So you should explain why you want to be a commercial solicitor, what you have done to find out about a legal career and your understanding of the work we do.  You could quote all our high profile deals and our international legal practice but we know that already!  What we really want to know is why the way we work, who we work with and how we train appeals to you.

Legal work experience, such as open days, vacation placements, and mini-pupillages are all valuable, but so are other kinds of work experience.  Our work means we need people with highly developed commercial awareness, so we also want to know about any positions of responsiblity you have held or customer-facing experience you have.  This may include running your own business, taking a role on a university society committee, or a part-time or weekend job.  When we're out on campus we always have lots of questions about commercial awareness, and what this means.  What we want to find out is whether you can see things from a client's point of view, regardless of how much business experience you have.  A real interest in current affairs and business news is essential and can help to demonstrate your commitment to being a commercial lawyer.  Download our "Understanding Commercial Awareness" handout (by clicking on the below link) for further hints and tips.

Commerical Awareness.pdf