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Four professional people walking down a hallway
Four professional people walking down a hallway

Students and graduates in Hong Kong SAR

Seize the opportunity to build your future by doing empowering work on a global scale.

The world is changing more than ever before. And not only do we need to change with it, but we need to help shape its new form. At Allen & Overy, it’s our mission to be at the cutting edge of the legal industry. This is your chance to be part of something revolutionary, to make your mark and lead the way.

The start of an adventure. The one you’ve been working towards. You’re on your way. It's Time.

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Who are the people at A&O? What exactly do they do?

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Our opportunities

A&O First

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If you think a career in commercial law might be for you and are keen to find out more, then A&O First is a great place to start.

A&O First is much more than just work experience. It’s a programme with various touch points over the year and gives you access to a global support network designed to give you all the information, contacts and experience you need to decide whether a legal career at A&O is right for you.

The programme is packed full of insights, experiences and exposure to the work we do through work-shadowing and networking. During the scheme, we look to boost the skills we look for in future trainees such as technology and commercial awareness.

International A&O First

As one of the world's largest international law firms, we have a large global network, so it's important our people foster a global mind-set from day one. That's why we offer students attending A&O First the opportunity to apply for additional work experience in one of our international offices. This global experience will give you an international outlook and the opportunity to see how our teams collaborate across the globe.

As part of the scheme you will have:

  • Advice and guidance from our graduate recruitment team
  • Workshops in April and September with the London office and one week work experience in August with the Hong Kong office
  • Work shadowing to see the role of a lawyer first-hand
  • Ongoing support from a trainee ‘buddy’
  • Peer support – you will get to know students from other universities and degree disciplines also on the scheme
  • Opportunity to be fast-tracked to interview for a Vacation Scheme

Given that this programme offers insights into our London and Hong Kong offices, it is a great opportunity for students who are uncertain whether to commence their legal career in London or Hong Kong.

Eligibility

A&O First International (Hong Kong) is for first-year undergraduate students, as well as those in their second-year of a four-year course, preferably with Chinese language skills, and is open to all degree disciplines. To be eligible for this programme, you must study at a UK university and are on track for a 2:1 at University.

Application window

To be confirmed for 2024 programme.

Vacation schemes

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Everything you are aiming for.

It can be difficult trying to differentiate one firm from another. That is why our Vacation Schemes are a great way to experience our cutting-edge work and collaborative culture.

As part of the scheme, you will gain real and valuable experience from day one, working alongside our lawyers on live deals and cases. There will be a number of events and presentations to attend where you will learn about key elements of our practice while developing the skills you need to be a successful international commercial lawyer.

It is not all work and no play. There is plenty of time to socialise with lawyers, trainees and partners as well as the other students on your scheme, - broadening your knowledge of the firm and building your network.

All those successful at interview and invited to participate in the vacation scheme will be considered for a training contract regardless of the format of the scheme (virtual, hybrid or in person). We have adapted the vacation scheme to equally benefit those who opt for virtual attendance, ensuring that they are able to fully participate in all aspects of programme through our online platforms and enhanced technology options.    

Information on the scheme

  • The summer vacation scheme is held in Hong Kong in June and July each year (depending on Covid restrictions the programme is run virtually or in-person)
  • The vacation scheme is a four week structured programme
  • Students will need to be available for the entire duration – we are unable to have students leaving early or joining late.
  • Vacation scheme students get to sit in 2 departments for 2 weeks each
  • The internship is the best way for students to experience who we are and how we work

Eligibility

Applications are welcomed from penultimate and final year law students, or final year non-law students at university in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and other common law jurisdictions.

Australian students who are successful in our assessment process, will be invited to participate during their term break in July.

Application window

  • To be confirmed for 2024 programme
  • We look at applications, schedule interviews and make offers on a rolling basis
  • Applications need to be made online via our website
  • Please be aware that you can only make one application each year to A&O, for either a Training Contract or Vacation Scheme

Training contract

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Starting a Training Contract with Allen & Overy is just the beginning of what will be a stimulating and rewarding legal career. Throughout the two years of your Training Contract, we will work closely with you to ensure you have the right support to develop into a successful commercial solicitor.

What will you do?

Your training will be based on four six-month rotations (known as ‘seats’) in our core practice areas – Banking, Corporate, Dispute Resolution, International Capital Markets, and Regulatory. You will be assigned a trainer (usually an associate), and you will be integral to the day-to-day operation of your department, working on transactions and cases, taking real responsibility and gaining plenty of client exposure.

Shortly before you start your A&O Training Contract, we will ask you to identify your two most preferred seats and you are guaranteed to sit in at least one of those during your Training Contract, and most people sit in both. Furthermore, one of your seats will take the form of a six-month secondment to our London office, Covid-19 travel restrictions permitting. This London seat will help you to develop a broader perspective on the work of a lawyer and prepare you for life as a qualified solicitor so it’s no surprise that 100% of our trainees take advantage of this opportunity. London secondments typically take place in the penultimate or final seat. 

Training and Support

One of the things our trainees value most about being at Allen & Overy is the award-winning training they receive. In each seat, you will sit with a partner or associate who will provide you with support and guidance, and you will take an active and practical role in the department’s work, with plenty of individual responsibility along the way.

In addition to learning practical skills such as drafting, transaction management, research and legal and office procedures, the experience you gain as a trainee will develop your professional conduct, particularly with respect to negotiation and communication with clients and colleagues.

You will receive training and support in a variety of ways, including mentoring from your supervisor. You will be given department-specific training at the start of each seat to ensure that you are well-equipped to make the most of your time there. You will also receive 'Know-How' and 'Professional Skills Training' from the Professional Support Lawyer in each department, which aims to build on the foundations you have established during the Postgraduate Certificate in Law, and develop your ability to contribute to the teams you work with during your Training Contract.

Your professional development is a priority for us and you will have an unrivalled training experience that will set you up for the rest of your career wherever it takes you. 

You will take on greater responsibility as you move through your seats and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Training Contract Applications

We recruit our trainees via our summer vacation scheme. We do not have a separate trainee recruitment programme for those who have already graduated. In the event that we need to add graduates to our intakes we will advertise the role on our website.

If you think a career in commercial law might be for you and are keen to find out more, then A&O First is a great place to start.

A&O First is much more than just work experience. It’s a programme with various touch points over the year and gives you access to a global support network designed to give you all the information, contacts and experience you need to decide whether a legal career at A&O is right for you.

The programme is packed full of insights, experiences and exposure to the work we do through work-shadowing and networking. During the scheme, we look to boost the skills we look for in future trainees such as technology and commercial awareness.

International A&O First

As one of the world's largest international law firms, we have a large global network, so it's important our people foster a global mind-set from day one. That's why we offer students attending A&O First the opportunity to apply for additional work experience in one of our international offices. This global experience will give you an international outlook and the opportunity to see how our teams collaborate across the globe.

As part of the scheme you will have:

  • Advice and guidance from our graduate recruitment team
  • Workshops in April and September with the London office and one week work experience in August with the Hong Kong office
  • Work shadowing to see the role of a lawyer first-hand
  • Ongoing support from a trainee ‘buddy’
  • Peer support – you will get to know students from other universities and degree disciplines also on the scheme
  • Opportunity to be fast-tracked to interview for a Vacation Scheme

Given that this programme offers insights into our London and Hong Kong offices, it is a great opportunity for students who are uncertain whether to commence their legal career in London or Hong Kong.

Eligibility

A&O First International (Hong Kong) is for first-year undergraduate students, as well as those in their second-year of a four-year course, preferably with Chinese language skills, and is open to all degree disciplines. To be eligible for this programme, you must study at a UK university and are on track for a 2:1 at University.

Application window

To be confirmed for 2024 programme.

Everything you are aiming for.

It can be difficult trying to differentiate one firm from another. That is why our Vacation Schemes are a great way to experience our cutting-edge work and collaborative culture.

As part of the scheme, you will gain real and valuable experience from day one, working alongside our lawyers on live deals and cases. There will be a number of events and presentations to attend where you will learn about key elements of our practice while developing the skills you need to be a successful international commercial lawyer.

It is not all work and no play. There is plenty of time to socialise with lawyers, trainees and partners as well as the other students on your scheme, - broadening your knowledge of the firm and building your network.

All those successful at interview and invited to participate in the vacation scheme will be considered for a training contract regardless of the format of the scheme (virtual, hybrid or in person). We have adapted the vacation scheme to equally benefit those who opt for virtual attendance, ensuring that they are able to fully participate in all aspects of programme through our online platforms and enhanced technology options.    

Information on the scheme

  • The summer vacation scheme is held in Hong Kong in June and July each year (depending on Covid restrictions the programme is run virtually or in-person)
  • The vacation scheme is a four week structured programme
  • Students will need to be available for the entire duration – we are unable to have students leaving early or joining late.
  • Vacation scheme students get to sit in 2 departments for 2 weeks each
  • The internship is the best way for students to experience who we are and how we work

Eligibility

Applications are welcomed from penultimate and final year law students, or final year non-law students at university in Hong Kong, the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and other common law jurisdictions.

Australian students who are successful in our assessment process, will be invited to participate during their term break in July.

Application window

  • To be confirmed for 2024 programme
  • We look at applications, schedule interviews and make offers on a rolling basis
  • Applications need to be made online via our website
  • Please be aware that you can only make one application each year to A&O, for either a Training Contract or Vacation Scheme

Starting a Training Contract with Allen & Overy is just the beginning of what will be a stimulating and rewarding legal career. Throughout the two years of your Training Contract, we will work closely with you to ensure you have the right support to develop into a successful commercial solicitor.

What will you do?

Your training will be based on four six-month rotations (known as ‘seats’) in our core practice areas – Banking, Corporate, Dispute Resolution, International Capital Markets, and Regulatory. You will be assigned a trainer (usually an associate), and you will be integral to the day-to-day operation of your department, working on transactions and cases, taking real responsibility and gaining plenty of client exposure.

Shortly before you start your A&O Training Contract, we will ask you to identify your two most preferred seats and you are guaranteed to sit in at least one of those during your Training Contract, and most people sit in both. Furthermore, one of your seats will take the form of a six-month secondment to our London office, Covid-19 travel restrictions permitting. This London seat will help you to develop a broader perspective on the work of a lawyer and prepare you for life as a qualified solicitor so it’s no surprise that 100% of our trainees take advantage of this opportunity. London secondments typically take place in the penultimate or final seat. 

Training and Support

One of the things our trainees value most about being at Allen & Overy is the award-winning training they receive. In each seat, you will sit with a partner or associate who will provide you with support and guidance, and you will take an active and practical role in the department’s work, with plenty of individual responsibility along the way.

In addition to learning practical skills such as drafting, transaction management, research and legal and office procedures, the experience you gain as a trainee will develop your professional conduct, particularly with respect to negotiation and communication with clients and colleagues.

You will receive training and support in a variety of ways, including mentoring from your supervisor. You will be given department-specific training at the start of each seat to ensure that you are well-equipped to make the most of your time there. You will also receive 'Know-How' and 'Professional Skills Training' from the Professional Support Lawyer in each department, which aims to build on the foundations you have established during the Postgraduate Certificate in Law, and develop your ability to contribute to the teams you work with during your Training Contract.

Your professional development is a priority for us and you will have an unrivalled training experience that will set you up for the rest of your career wherever it takes you. 

You will take on greater responsibility as you move through your seats and we’ll support you every step of the way.

Training Contract Applications

We recruit our trainees via our summer vacation scheme. We do not have a separate trainee recruitment programme for those who have already graduated. In the event that we need to add graduates to our intakes we will advertise the role on our website.

Find out more about us

It can be difficult trying to differentiate one firm from another. Read through our graduate brochure, listen to our podcasts and attend our events to gain an insight into the firm, our people, our culture and the work we do. The insight and information provided will also help you prepare for your journey with us as a candidate, an intern and a trainee.

You can access our podcasts and register for our upcoming events through our 'Events and Podcasts' section which can be found below our Application FAQs.

Download our Hong Kong student and graduate careers brochure (PDF)

It’s time to find common ground

We believe that our accepting, inclusive culture fosters an environment of support and dedication that empowers our people to do their best work. As well as our shared ambition and drive, our global network is united in our creativity, mutual respect and diversity of perspective and background.

Of course, ambition and drive are vital to succeeding in our competitive landscape, but we also acknowledge that it’s important for our people to have the time and space to relax and enjoy themselves outside of work by dedicating time towards other commitments.

We encourage everyone at the firm to pursue their interests, whether they are passions outside the office, or at the firm’s clubs and events. In addition, the firm’s commitment to pro bono and community investment work also offers our people the chance to experience and contribute to our inclusive culture.

Watch our video to learn how we work across teams and jurisdictions

Watch our video to learn about life outside of work at A&O

Training and support

One of the things our trainees value most about being at Allen & Overy is the award-winning training they receive. In each seat, you will sit with a partner or associate who will provide you with support and guidance, and you will take an active and practical role in the department’s work, with plenty of individual responsibility along the way.

In addition to learning practical skills such as drafting, transaction management, research and legal and office procedures, the experience you gain as a trainee will develop your professional conduct, particularly with respect to negotiation and communication with clients and colleagues.

You will receive training and support in a variety of ways, including mentoring from your supervisor. You will be given department-specific training at the start of each seat to ensure that you are well-equipped to make the most of your time there. You will also receive 'Know-How' and 'Professional Skills Training' from the Professional Support Lawyer in each department, which aims to build on the foundations you have established during the Postgraduate Certificate in Law, and develop your ability to contribute to the teams you work with during your Training Contract.

Training does not stop on qualification. At key points during your associate career, you will become eligible to attend the different stages of our bespoke global associate development programme, where you will be joined by colleagues from around the world. These sessions are run by internal and external experts, focusing on developing your strategic and commercial awareness and your ability to work effectively and with resilience. As you progress, the focus on managing client relationships and building a practice increases.

Your professional development is a priority for us and you will have an unrivalled training experience that will set you up for the rest of your career wherever it takes you.

Watch our video to learn more about our buddy system

Employee stories

Cedric Tang headshot

Cedric Tang

2021 trainee

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Hui Lin headshot

Hui Ling Yuen

Associate, Banking (2019 Trainee)

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Charles Chiu headshot

Charles Chiu

Associate, International Capital Markets (2018 Trainee)

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Natalie Ullman headshot

Natalie Ullmann

Associate, Banking (2018 Trainee)

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What we offer

Our package of rewards and benefits will provide you with a range of financial benefits, facilities and services to help you develop a truly satisfying career, maximise your ability to support your clients, and enjoy a lifestyle that is as balanced as possible.

Health & wellbeing

  • Mandatory Provident Fund Scheme – a pension scheme
  • Medical, life, health, dental and accident insurance
  • Wellbeing allowance

Time out

  • 22 days leave for each year of your Training Contract
  • Birthday leave
  • Six weeks of unpaid qualification leave

Financial security

  • PCLL course fees reimbursed in full.
  • A maintenance grant of HKD70,000 towards your living costs during the PCLL year
  • Future trainees who achieve a first-class LLB degree and/or an overall distinction of the PCLL will receive a cash award for HKD6,000 for each
  • Enrolment in our rental reimbursement scheme

Are we right for you?

What to expect during our selection process.

Online Application

The first stage is an online application form, which includes a cover letter and a CV. Once you have submitted your online application, you will be invited to complete an immersive video-based Situational Judgement Test (SJT); this takes around 20 minutes. The SJT takes the form of a series of filmed scenarios based on day-to-day tasks and challenges faced by trainees at A&O. After each one, you will be invited to select your answer as to what you would do in that situation if you were the trainee.

HR Scenario Based interview

If your application is successful, the second stage will be an interview with the Graduate team, which will assess your skills, knowledge, and motivation for a legal career at Allen & Overy. In addition, you will be asked a series of questions based on scenarios, which you may encounter as a trainee.

Business Case Study interview

Shortlisted candidates from the first two stages will be invited to the third stage of the process, which is a business case study with a lawyer at A&O. You will have a short time to work through the case study materials and prepare a brief presentation, which will be followed by a discussion with your interviewer. This exercise is aimed at assessing your interest in business, your commercial awareness, and ability to digest information and present your findings.

Top tips for your case study interview

  • Read through the instructions carefully and really think about what is being asked
  • Set time to work through the business case documents and write down key bullet points
  • Use the questions being asked in the instructions to frame your presentation
  • Be prepared for questions on what you have presented

 

Application timeline for 2024 summer vacation scheme

  • To be confirmed for 2024 programme
  • We look at applications, schedule interviews and make offers on a rolling basis

Application FAQs

I am an international student, am I still eligible to apply?

I am an international student, am I still eligible to apply?

We accept applications from students who are doing a common law degree or a JD and want to become a Hong Kong Qualified solicitor.

If your law degree or JD is from an overseas university, you will need to complete PCLL conversion exams prior to starting the PCLL course. More information can be found online here.

The PCLL is a 1 year full-time course which runs from September to June. This must be completed prior to starting your training contract.

The PCLL course can be completed at one of the university providers in Hong Kong – The Chinese University of Hong Kong, The City University of Hong Kong or The University of Hong Kong.

I am in my final year, am I still eligible to apply?

I am in my final year, am I still eligible to apply?

Our summer internship programme is aimed at students in their penultimate year of a qualifying law degree (such as an LL.B or J.D) in Hong Kong / the UK / Australia / New Zealand. If you are in your final year and intend on applying, please note, training contract offers are not made for the following year, unless we have an ad-hoc place to back-fill.

I have graduated, am I still eligible to apply?

I have graduated, am I still eligible to apply?

Our summer internship programme is aimed at penultimate year students. If you have already completed your law degree and did not apply for a summer internship during your penultimate year we would want to understand the reasoning behind this decision. Furthermore, please also note that if you apply to us as a graduate, you will need to be enrolled in a postgraduate course.

When are your vacation scheme dates? Are they flexible?

When are your vacation scheme dates? Are they flexible?

Our summer vacation scheme runs for four weeks in June and July every year. It is a structured programme giving you the best possible experience of Allen & Overy. 

Do you have a separate trainee recruitment programme for graduates?

Do you have a separate trainee recruitment programme for graduates?

We recruit our trainees via our summer vacation scheme. We do not have a separate trainee recruitment programme for those who have already graduated. In the event that we need to add graduates to our intakes we will advertise the role on our website.

Can I post/email my summer internship application?

Can I post/email my summer internship application?

No, all applications must be submitted online via our career portal. Any applications received by any other means will not be considered.

I don't have my most recent transcript, can I still apply?

I don't have my most recent transcript, can I still apply?

We appreciate that not all universities release their results prior to the internship applications period. You are able to submit your application without your most recent academic transcript. However, we will require a copy when it becomes available. If you do not submit your past academic transcripts, we will be unable to assess your application and it will be declined.

I don’t have any paralegal/legal experience, can I still apply?

I don’t have any paralegal/legal experience, can I still apply?

Prior legal experience is not a requirement. You should make the most of any work related experience that you have, regardless of the discipline, and focus on what you have learned and observed and how this will apply to your legal career.

Am I able to amend my answers to your questions once I have submitted my application?

Am I able to amend my answers to your questions once I have submitted my application?

You are unable to edit your answers once you have created a profile on our career portal. If you need to edit your replies you can upload a word/PDF document to your application or send it to us via email.

What happens after I submit my application?

What happens after I submit my application?

Once you submit the application, you will be asked to complete an immersive video based Situational Judgment Test (SJT), which should take approximately 20 minutes. The SJT is designed to provide a realistic preview of what you may experience as a trainee at A&O. Instructions will be provided once you start the SJT.

I have been invited to an interview. Who will I be interviewing with?

I have been invited to an interview. Who will I be interviewing with?

Interviews are hosted by HR and lawyers. We do not always specify who you will be interviewed by during the process, due to last minute changes, which can be unsettling.

If your application has been shortlisted, you will be invited to attend a case study interview. We will be assessing your interest in business, commercial awareness, ability to digest and process information, how you present information and your communication skills.

How many interns do you take?

How many interns do you take?

We take around 25 - 27 interns each year, with a view to offering 10 - 12 interns a Hong Kong training contract. However, our trainee number is dependent on business needs and the calibre of interns.

Can I do a part time/shorter vacation scheme?

Can I do a part time/shorter vacation scheme?

We appreciate that you may have other commitments during the summer; however, our vacation scheme is a structured programme to give you the best experience. 

How am I assessed during my vacation scheme?

How am I assessed during my vacation scheme?

As part of the summer vacation scheme all of the interns will do the partner interview, research tasks, a technical / analytical test and the group challenge. We will use the feedback from all of these elements along with the trainers' feedback to make a final decision on training contract offers.

Can I submit my application outside of the application dates?

Can I submit my application outside of the application dates?

No, we are unable to accept applications outside of the application period.

Events and podcasts

A&O Hong Kong will be participating in and running a number of virtual, online and in-person events for the 2022-2023 academic year. Our events are a great way to meet A&O representatives and to gain an insight into the firm, our culture and the work we do.

Listen to our podcasts for some further insight into our programmes and some application and interview tips:

 

You can listen to The Allen & Overy Podcast on the following: 

    Podbean-logo     

2023 Australia Law Fairs

Come and meet our people to know how we deliver exceptional legal solutions. You will learn more about our Summer Vacation Scheme and discover how your curiosity and drive will be rewarded here.

University of Melbourne Law Fair
20 March 2023, 1:00pm - 3:00pm
Woodward Conference Centre, Level 10, Melbourne Law School, 185 Pelham Street, Carlton

University of Sydney Law Fair
22 March 2023, 12:00pm – 2:30pm
Law Foyer, Level 2, Sydney Law School, University of Sydney

University of New South Wales Law Fair
23 March 2023, 12:00pm – 2:00pm
Rooms 5 and 6, Level 2, Roundhouse (E6), Anzac Parade, UNSW Sydney, Kensington, NSW, 2052

 

Our locations

  • Europe
  • Africa
  • Asia Pacific
  • Middle East
  • North America
  • Latin America
In addition to countries where we have offices, we also have a number of International Desks advising clients on large scale international transactions in Europe.

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