Simmons & Simmons Online Assessments, Blended Assessments, and Vacation Scheme 2026 Preparation Guide.

1. Introduction

Not sure if you should practice to prepare for Simmons & Simmons assessments? Research shows that 60-80% of candidates are rejected based on their aptitude test results. It is proven that practice increases your chances of getting hired.

In a nutshell:

1. Complete your Simmons & Simmons Online Application

• Register on the website and complete your Simmons & Simmons application form
• Submit the required documents, which include your resume and cover letter.
• Answer the application questions while aligning with Simmons & Simmons’ values and mission.

2. Practice for the Simmons & Simmons Online Assessment Test

Simmons & Simmons online assessment tests vary based on the job role you’re applying for. Some standard tests include:

• Verbal Reasoning Test
• Logical Reasoning Test
• Situational Judgment Test

These tests sift out 50-80% of candidates at this stage. The only proven way to get to the next round is to practice.

3. Record Mock Video Interviews of Yourself

Prepare for your Simmons & Simmons online assessment and vacation scheme by recording video interviews of yourself and practising responses to common law interview questions used by the firm’s recruitment team. Focus on delivering fluent, concise, and prompt answers without hesitation.

To get ready for your Simmons & Simmons online assessment interview, practice using:

• A smartphone
• Zoom
• Our easily accessible video interview platform

Our video interview practice platform has predefined competency and industry questions. It mimics the experience you will have in the platforms employers use for interviews. These include HireVue, Pymetrics, and Sonru.

Use the STAR+R method to answer Simmons & Simmons competency-based interview questions. 

4. Prepare for the Simmons & Simmons Vacation Scheme Assessment Centre

Simmons & Simmons supports using virtual assessment centres to recruit job seekers who are preparing for their vacation scheme. You will complete two exercises and an interview as part of the Simmons & Simmons selection process:

• In-tray Exercise
• Case Study Exercise
• Final Interview

Simmons & Simmons recruiters will evaluate your responses and body language, so staying calm, maintaining composure, and communicating clearly is important.

Before diving deeper into the Simmons & Simmons application process, here’s some key history about the law firm you should know before applying.

Who are Simmons & Simmons?

Simmons & Simmons is an international law firm established in 1896 by twin brothers Edward and Percy Simmons. With its headquarters in London, the law firm operates across Hong Kong SAR China, Singapore, Mainland China, Tokyo, Dubai, Amsterdam, Brussels, London, Madrid, Paris, Bristol, Germany, Luxembourg, Milan, and the United States.

Simmons & Simmons has between 1,000 and 5,000 employees and specialises in asset management, financial institutions, healthcare, and technology, media, and telecommunications sectors.

Simmons & Simmons has offices in 15 countries and three continents: Europe, the Middle East Asia, and the United States of America. Since it is an international law firm, several positions are available for you to apply for in any of these locations.

What job positions can I apply for at Simmons & Simmons?

Simmons & Simmons offers a variety of jobs, and here are the categories of job positions that you can apply for:

Business Acceptance Group	Corporate & Commercial Group	Dispute Resolution Group
Employment, Pensions & Employee Benefits Group	Facilities Group	Finance Group
Financial Markets Group	Human Resources Group	Information Technology Group
Knowledge and Learning Group	Legal Operations Group	Marketing & Business Development Group
Solutions Group	Trainee Group

To apply for a role in these areas and succeed in your upcoming Simmons & Simmons blended assessments, it is essential that you understand the firm’s core values.

Curious to know more about the Simmons & Simmons values? Keep scrolling to find out.

What are Simmons & Simmons Values?

Simmons & Simmons’ values empower employees to succeed and make a global impact. When applying for any role at the firm, you are advised to embrace the following principles.

Now that we have a better understanding of Simmons & Simmons’ values, the next step is to fill out the Simmons & Simmons application form and start the Simmons & Simmons test.

2. Simmons & Simmons Application Form

What is the Simmons & Simmons application form?

The Simmons & Simmons application form is the first stage of the firm’s selection process. It is an online form that interested applicants must complete when applying for vacation schemes, training contracts, or other roles at the firm.

To begin, you must create an account with Simmons & Simmons, submit your credentials, such as your CV, and answer some application questions.

Simmons & Simmons Application Form

Source: Simmons & Simmons Careers

To make your application to Simmons & Simmons stand out, your resume and career path must align with your desire to work with the law firm.

5 Top Tips to Get Your S&S Online Application Shortlisted

The Simmons & Simmons application form can stand out with these five tips to guide you through the process:

1. Demonstrate legal knowledge: Simmons & Simmons is a leading law firm, so highlight your experience of legal skills, especially those relevant to their practice areas (e.g., commercial law, banking, or technology).
2. Show analytical thinking skills: Provide examples from your experience demonstrating strong analytical skills, such as legal research or case analysis.
3. Express your passion: Express your enthusiasm for this firm, mention what attracts you to Simmons & Simmons practice areas, culture, or values and be genuine about your passion for a legal career with the law firm.
4. Tailor your responses: Tailor your answers to fit the specific role and the firm’s values. Consider what makes you unique and how your background aligns with their needs.
5. Proofread your application: The application form reflects your attention to detail. Proofread it for spelling, grammar, and clarity to prove that you meet high standards.

For more tips on how to apply to Simmons & Simmons, check out our short video:

After submitting your application form, you must complete a series of Simmons & Simmons online assessment tests. 

Continue reading to discover what comes next in the Simmons & Simmons hiring process!

3. Simmons & Simmons Blended Assessment

What is Simmons & Simmons online assessment?

The Simmons & Simmons online assessment, also known as the Simmons & Simmons blended assessment, includes situational judgment questions, applied intellect exercises (verbal and logical reasoning tests), and a video interview to assess your problem-solving, decision-making, and communication abilities.

Here are the four types of Simmons & Simmons online assessment tests used to test applicants:

1. Verbal Reasoning Test
2. Logical Reasoning Test
3. Situational Judgment Test
4. Video Interview

How long will the Simmons & Simmons assessment test take?

The Simmons & Simmons assessment test usually lasts 60 to 90 minutes, depending on your stage in the Simmons & Simmons recruitment process.

Let’s take a closer look at each section of the Simmons & Simmons online test, starting with the Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test.

Simmons & Simmons Verbal Reasoning Test

What is the Simmons & Simmons verbal Reasoning Test?

In the Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test, you will be given short passages of text followed by a series of questions, where you must determine whether statements are “True,” “False,” or “Cannot Say” based solely on the information provided.

Watch our one-minute YouTube video below for additional tips on succeeding in your Simmons & Simmons test.

What does the Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test measure?

The Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test measures your ability to comprehend written information, analyse and evaluate arguments, make inferences and draw conclusions, and think critically.

Simmons & Simmons-style Verbal Reasoning Test Question Example

Check the bottom of the page for the correct answer to this verbal reasoning test question.

5 Tips to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Verbal Reasoning Test

Follow these five tips to help pass the Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test:

1. Practice speed reading: Work on reading quickly while retaining key details that you will need to answer the verbal reasoning test questions. Focus on understanding the main argument and facts.
2. Read carefully and thoroughly: When taking the Simmons & Simmons verbal reasoning test, read each passage and question carefully, paying attention to details.
3. Eliminate incorrect answers: If an answer is too extreme or introduces new information not found in the passage, it is likely wrong.
4. Manage your time: These tests are timed, so don’t spend too long on one question. You can answer the easiest, straightforward questions first, then return to the more challenging ones if time allows.
5. Remain calm: Remain composed under pressure, and do not rush; accuracy matters as much as speed in your Simmons & Simmons online test

Ready to begin your Simmons & Simmons selection process practice?

The next section of the Simmons & Simmons online test is the Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test. Want to know what it involves? Keep reading to find out!

Simmons & Simmons Logical Reasoning Test

What is Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test?

The Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test lasts 30 minutes and is used during its recruitment process to evaluate a candidate’s ability to analyse patterns, make logical connections, and draw conclusions from structured information.

What does the Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test measure?

The Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test involves multiple-choice questions based on sequences of shapes, symbols, or diagrams. Candidates are to identify the sequence’s rule or pattern and choose the correct answer from the given options.

Watch this quick video to learn more about logical reasoning tests and prepare for the Simmons & Simmons recruitment process.

What does the Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test measure?

The Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test takes 20 to 30 minutes to complete. It measures your ability to think critically and solve problems. It assesses your capacity to analyse patterns, draw conclusions, and make logical decisions based on given information.

Simmons & Simmons-style Logical Reasoning Test Question Example

Scroll to the bottom of the page to find the correct answer to this logical reasoning test question!

5 Tips on How to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Logical Reasoning Test 

Pass your Simmons & Simmons logical reasoning test with ease, following these five tips:

1. Look for patterns and rules: Identify relationships between shapes, movements, or rotations in a sequence and pay attention to size, position, shading, and direction.
2. Understand the question types: Familiarise yourself with pattern recognition, sequences, and deductive reasoning questions that are often used in these Simmons & Simmons tests.
3. Manage your time: The Simmons & Simmons test is timed, so it is best not to spend too much time on a question. Time yourself, and when you are stuck on a question, move on to the next and return to it if there is still time.
4. Stay focused: Maintain concentration and avoid second-guessing yourself too much. Eliminate clear wrong answers first to reduce the options to improve your focus and speed.
5. Review your mistakes: Review your incorrect answers to understand where you went wrong, identify patterns in your mistakes, and work on improving those areas.

Are you interested in taking more Simmons & Simmons online test practice?

Following the logical reasoning test, the next step in the Simmons & Simmons blended assessment is the Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test. 

Keep reading to learn more!

Simmons & Simmons Situational Judgment Test

What is the Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test?

The Simmons & Simmons Situational Judgment Test (SJT) is an online assessment designed to evaluate how you respond to realistic workplace scenarios. The situational judgment test is to be completed in under 30 minutes.

Want more details on how to pass your Simmons & Simmons online test? You can check out our one-minute YouTube video below.

What does the Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test measure?

The Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test measures your decision-making, problem-solving skills, and alignment with the firm’s values through hypothetical scenarios.

Take a look at a sample Simmons & Simmons-style situational test question below!

Simmons & Simmons-style Situational Judgement Test Question Example

Keep reading to discover the tips that will help you in passing the Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test!

5 Tips on How to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Situational Judgment Test

These tips will increase your chances of passing the Simmons & Simmons situational judgment test.

1. Understand the firm’s values: Research Simmons & Simmons’ values and choose responses that reflect these values.
2. Think like a trainee solicitor: Approach scenarios from a legal professional’s perspective, prioritising decision-making, teamwork, and problem-solving.
3. Demonstrate professionalism: When faced with dilemmas, choose responses that show good communication, respect for confidentiality, and attention to detail.
4. Avoid extreme responses: Choose balanced, well-reasoned answers instead of those that escalate conflicts, dismiss concerns, or show irresponsibility.
5. Review your answers: Review your answers to understand why some responses are preferred in a professional setting.

Ready to start your Simmons & Simmons blended assessment test practice?

Once you pass the three Simmons & Simmons recruitment assessment tests, you will move on to the next stage of the Simmons & Simmons hiring process; the Simmons & Simmons video interview.

Simmons & Simmons Video Interview

What is Simmons & Simmons video interview?

The Simmons & Simmons video interview is a pre-recorded online assessment that tests your problem-solving, decision-making, and communication skills. It lasts 20–30 minutes with around 4 questions, giving you 30–60 seconds to prepare and 1–2 minutes to respond.

Discover more about the Simmons & Simmons video interview in the short video below:

How long does the Simmons & Simmons video interview last?

The Simmons and Simmons video interview questions typically lasts around 20 minutes and consists of 8 questions.

Curious to know how to pass the Simmons & Simmons video interview questions? Keep scrolling to find out!

5 Tips to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Video Interview Questions

Use these easy tips to answer the Simmons & Simmons video interview questions and advance in the Simmons & Simmons hiring process.

1. Research the firm: Learn about Simmons & Simmons’ values, key practice areas, and recent news to tailor your responses to the interview questions.
2. Practice your responses: Prepare for common Simmons & Simmons video interview questions, especially about problem-solving, teamwork, and decision-making.
3. Speak clearly and confidently: Maintain good eye contact with the camera and speak steadily when participating in the video interview.
4. Stay in a calm environment: Choose a quiet, well-lit space that will not affect your visibility on screen during the Simmons and Simmons video interview stage.
5. Be professional: Wear smart, business-appropriate attire, just as you would for an in-person interview and ensure your background is clean and distraction-free.

Want to practice video interview questions for your Simmons & Simmons interview?

Now that we’ve covered the Simmons & Simmons video interview and tests, let’s explore the Simmons & Simmons assessment centre.

4. Simmons & Simmons Assessment Centre

What is the Simmons & Simmons assessment centre?

The Simmons & Simmons assessment centre is the final recruitment stage, evaluating your skills and suitability for the firm through exercises that assess legal knowledge, problem-solving, teamwork, and communication in a professional setting.

The Simmons & Simmons assessment centre includes three exercises:

1. In-tray Exercise
2. Case Study Exercise
3. Final Interview

Curious about these three Simmons & Simmons assessment centre exercises? Stick around to understand why they are necessary to pass the Simmons & Simmons selection process.

Simmons & Simmons In-tray Exercise

What is the Simmons & Simmons in-tray exercise?

The Simmons & Simmons in-tray exercise tests how well you manage your time, prioritise work and make decisions in a busy work environment. It provides Simmons & Simmons the opportunity to test how you can endure and handle tasks assigned to you as a staff in the law firm.

5 Tips to Pass the Simmons & Simmons In-tray Exercise

These five tips below will aid you in passing the Simmons & Simmons in-tray exercise.

1. Prioritise assigned tasks: Identify urgent and important tasks first and prioritise them accordingly as this may let the assessor understand your prioritisation skills. 
2. Be time-conscious: If you are unsure about a decision, make a logical, well-reasoned choice about the tasks assigned to you by prioritising them based on which is the most urgent.
3. Pay attention to details: It is crucial that you read all emails, memos, and instructions carefully before responding.
4. Be professional: When reviewing tasks, always consider legal and business priorities. Demonstrate your acute judgment skills by considering how your decisions impact clients, colleagues, and the firm’s reputation.
5. Try to remain calm: Use logical thinking to guide your decisions, prioritise what benefits the firm most, and maintain a calm, focused mindset while completing tasks.

With the Simmons & Simmons In-tray exercise covered, you are another step closer to success. Next, let’s dive into the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise.

Simmons & Simmons Case Study Exercise

What is the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise?

In the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise, you will get 30 minutes to review legal documents about a financial transaction, usually in finance or deal financing. After that, you will have an interview with partners, where they will test your understanding, analysis, and attention to detail.

Interested in knowing how to pass the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise? Stick around!

5 Tips to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Case Study Exercise

Here are five tips to help you analyse the documents and pass the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise.

1. Focus on legal and commercial issues: Understanding trending commercial issues helps you think like a commercial lawyer and is key in the case study exercise, where you’ll need to spot the main risks, obligations, and financial impacts.
2. Organise your work: Organise your analysis logically and break it down into issues, risks, and recommendations. This will assist you in explaining the process to the employers in simpler stages that can be offered to the clients.
3. Provide evidence: Always referring to important sections of the documents to support your analysis will prove to the employers that your skills are adept at problem-solving and at making thorough research.
4. Demonstrate confidence: When communicating your findings with your partners, ensure that your tone and body language exudes confidence.
5. Manage your time wisely: Remember, you only have 30 minutes, so skim through the documents first to understand the crucial details.

Want to practice for your upcoming Simmons & Simmons assessment centre exercises? 

Now that you have a solid understanding of the Simmons & Simmons case study exercise, let’s proceed to the next stage, the Simmons & Simmons final interview.

Simmons & Simmons Final Interview

What is the Simmons & Simmons final interview?

The Simmons & Simmons final interview is an online competency-based interview comprising several questions to test your knowledge of all the Simmons & Simmons tests you have taken.

What does the Simmons & Simmons final interview include?

The Simmons & Simmons final interview involves partners and executives assessing your motivation for a legal career, your understanding of the role, and your problem-solving skills with verbal and numerical challenges.

Here are some examples of questions and answers from the Simmons & Simmons final interview!

Simmons & Simmons Final Interview Questions and Answers

Question: Why do you want to work at Simmons & Simmons?

Good Answer: 

I am drawn to Simmons & Simmons because of its strong reputation in financial services and life sciences and its collaborative and inclusive culture, all of which align with my interests and career aspirations.

Question: Can you describe a time you had to learn a complex new skill quickly?

Good Answer: 

Looking for more practice ahead of your Simmons & Simmons interview? 

Here are some key tips to keep in mind to help you succeed in the Simmons & Simmons final interview.

5 Tips to Pass the Simmons & Simmons Final Interview

Here are five tips to help you pass the Simmons & Simmons final interview.

1. Research the firm: Understand Simmons & Simmons’ values, vital practice areas, and recent deals to show your genuine interest.
2. Practice case studies: Be ready to analyse and discuss legal scenarios logically and confidently.
3. Discuss your application: Be prepared to discuss your resume. Ensure that you speak on your career experiences and skills.
4. Use the STAR+R method: Structure your answers with Situation, Task, Action, Result, and Reflect to give clear and concise responses.
5. Demonstrate commercial awareness: Show an understanding of current legal and business trends relevant to the firm.

Congratulations on passing through the Simmons & Simmons selection process. A recruiter should get in touch with you in a few days. 

Want to learn about the requirements and eligibility for Simmons & Simmons’ early career programs? Keep reading to find out more!

5.  Simmons & Simmons Early Career Programs

What are the Simmons & Simmons early career programs?

The Simmons & Simmons early career programs offer legal training and experience to graduates, undergraduates, and law firm applicants. Based in London the programs are available in both London and Bristol, allowing applicants to choose their preferred location.

Below are the Simmons & Simmons early career programs.

1. Training Contract
2. Vacation Scheme
3. Solicitor Apprenticeship
4. Evolve Placement
5. Dublin Training Contract
6. Dublin Summer Internship

Keep scrolling to find out more about these Simmons & Simmons early career programs.

Simmons & Simmons Training Contract

What is Simmons & Simmons training contract?

The Simmons & Simmons training contract is a two-year program divided into four seats, each lasting six months, for different practice areas. This will help you choose your preferred interests in the company.

Who is eligible for the Simmons & Simmons training contract?

To be eligible for the Simmons & Simmons training contract, you must complete the vacation scheme before applying. It accepts applicants with 120 UCAS points (or equivalent) who are on course for (or already have) at least a 2:1 in their respective disciplines.

When is the application date for the Simmons & Simmons training contract?

The Simmons & Simmons training contract applications are now closed. However, you can register on the website and receive updates when they reopen.

Now that you know about the training contract, are you ready to learn more about the Simmons & Simmons vacation scheme? Keep scrolling!

Simmons & Simmons Vacation Scheme

What is the Simmons & Simmons vacation scheme?

The Simmons & Simmons vacation schemes give participants first-hand experience at the firm. Participants work with experienced lawyers on real client matters. Tasks include legal research, drafting documents, reviewing contracts, and attending client meetings.

Simmons & Simmons offers four vacation schemes (three in London and one in Bristol), each designed for students at different stages of their studies. These vacation schemes are:

Curious about knowing the benefits of each vacation scheme? Stay with us!

Now that we have completed the Simmons & Simmons vacation scheme, let’s continue with the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship.

Simmons & Simmons Solicitor Apprenticeship

What is the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship?

The Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship is a six-year-long program that teaches and trains applicants in all that is to be learned about legal affairs at the firm. It is a pay-as-you-learn program.

What does the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship consist of?

In the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship, the apprentices work four days a week, gaining experience and dedicating one day to studying at BPP University. This leads to an LLB (Hons) Law and Legal Practice degree and preparation for the Solicitors Qualifying Examinations (SQE).

When is the application date for the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship?

The Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship application is closed, but interested applicants can always check the site for confirmation.

Who can apply to the Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship?

The Simmons & Simmons solicitor apprenticeship is open to GCSE grades 4 or above with at least a 6 in Maths and English, plus A-Level grades at ABB (or equivalent).

Next up is the Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year. Curious to know who is eligible for this program? Keep scrolling!

Simmons & Simmons Evolve Placement Year

What is the Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year?

The Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year is a 12-month program that provides its applicants to work with lawyers and innovation teams to explore how you can embed emerging technologies across the firm’s business.

When is the Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year application date?

The Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year application date is usually open between October and February but is closed.

Who can apply to the Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year?

The Simmons & Simmons evolve placement year is open to undergraduate students from all disciplines.

The following Simmons & Simmons early careers program is the Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract. Stick around to find out more!

Simmons & Simmons Dublin Training Contract

What is the Simmon & Simmons Dublin training contract?

The Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract is a two-and-a-half-year program designed to prepare aspiring solicitors for a successful legal career within the firm in Ireland.

When is the Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract application date?

Applications for the Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract are open between September and November.

Who can apply for the Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract?

The Simmons & Simmons Dublin training contract is open to graduates from any degree discipline who have successfully passed all eight FE1 exams, the Law Society of Ireland entrance examinations.

Right after the training contract comes the Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship, interested in knowing what it takes to participate in this program?

Simmons & Simmons Dublin Summer Internship

What is the Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship?

The Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship is a four-week paid summer internship in Ireland designed to impact you with experience from two departments, supervised by a trainee while you learn about the work life at the international law firm.

When is the Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship application date?

The application period for the Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship typically opens between October and December but is currently closed.

Who is eligible to apply for the Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship?

The Simmons & Simmons Dublin summer internship is open to penultimate-year and final-year students and graduates of all degree disciplines.

That wraps up everything you need to know about the Simmons & Simmons selection process. Before you take on your tests with confidence, check out answers to common questions from other candidates.

And with this, we have covered all you need to know about  Simmons and Simmons recruitment process. 

But wait, before you go!

Keep reading below for common FAQs about Simmons & Simmons assessment tests.

6. Simmons & Simmons Hiring Process FAQs