Law School Scholarships
Law school in the U.S. can be an expensive venture, with tuition costs often exceeding $50,000 per year. Scholarships play a crucial role in helping students manage these costs. These scholarships are offered by law schools themselves, private organizations, corporations, and government programs, each with its own criteria and focus. Scholarships are generally based on merit, financial need, specific areas of interest (like public service or intellectual property law), and diversity.
More About Law Scholarships
About 75% of law students receive some form of scholarship, although the amounts can vary widely. The average law school student in the U.S. receives around $28,000 in scholarships and grants during their education. Over the past decade, there has been a significant increase in scholarships aimed at promoting diversity, with many schools offering full-tuition scholarships to attract students from underrepresented backgrounds.
Below 23 Scholarships details are given under two categories: General and School-Based
General Scholarships:-
1. Jack Kent Cooke Foundation Graduate Scholarship
The Jack Kent Cooke Foundation is one of the most prestigious scholarship providers in the U.S., offering substantial financial support to high-achieving students with financial need. The foundation’s Graduate Scholarship provides full tuition and living expenses for students pursuing graduate degrees, including law.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and leadership potential. Applicants must also have a bachelor's degree and plan to enroll in a graduate program, including law school.
- Application Process: Applicants must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and evidence of financial need. The selection process is highly competitive and considers both academic achievement and financial circumstances.
- Benefits: The scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, and other educational costs such as books and supplies.
2. Gates Millennium Scholars Program
Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, the Gates Millennium Scholars Program provides full-ride scholarships to outstanding minority students pursuing higher education, including law degrees. This program aims to reduce financial barriers for talented students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who are African American, American Indian/Alaska Native, Asian American/Pacific Islander, or Hispanic American. Applicants must have a strong academic record, demonstrated leadership abilities, and significant financial need.
- Application Process: The application includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and evidence of financial need. The selection process also considers community service and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and living expenses throughout the recipient’s academic journey, including law school.
3. ABA Legal Opportunity Scholarship Fund
The American Bar Association (ABA) offers the Legal Opportunity Scholarship Fund to encourage racial and ethnic minority students to pursue a legal education. This scholarship program aims to improve diversity within the legal profession by providing financial assistance to minority law students.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who are racial or ethnic minorities and have been accepted into an ABA-accredited law school. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to the legal profession.
- Application Process: Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The selection committee evaluates candidates based on academic achievement, financial need, and potential contributions to the legal field.
- Benefits: The scholarship provides $15,000 over three years, which can be applied toward tuition and other educational expenses. While not a full ride, this scholarship can be combined with other financial aid to significantly reduce the cost of law school.
4. Sidley Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship
Sidley Austin LLP, a global law firm, offers the Sidley Diversity and Inclusion Scholarship to law students who demonstrate a strong commitment to promoting diversity within the legal profession. The scholarship supports students from underrepresented backgrounds who are committed to fostering inclusivity in the legal field.
- Eligibility: Open to law students from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and gender groups who have completed their first year of law school at an accredited U.S. law school. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to diversity.
- Application Process: Candidates must submit a resume, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The selection process considers academic achievement, leadership potential, and dedication to diversity.
- Benefits: The scholarship provides $25,000 toward law school tuition and related expenses, along with the opportunity for a summer internship at Sidley Austin LLP. Although not a full ride, this scholarship can be combined with other financial aid to cover the full cost of law school.
5. NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) Scholarship
The NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund (LDF) offers scholarships to law students committed to advancing racial justice and civil rights. These scholarships aim to support the next generation of civil rights lawyers by reducing the financial burden of law school.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens who are committed to pursuing careers in civil rights law or racial justice. Applicants must have a strong academic record, demonstrated leadership abilities, and a commitment to social justice.
- Application Process: The application includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and evidence of financial need. The selection process also considers the applicant’s commitment to civil rights and social justice.
- Benefits: The scholarship covers full tuition and living expenses for the duration of law school. In addition to financial support, LDF scholars receive mentorship and networking opportunities with civil rights leaders and legal professionals.
6. Ron Brown Scholar Program
The Ron Brown Scholar Program is one of the most prestigious scholarship programs for African American students. It provides full-ride scholarships to students who demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Eligibility: Open to African American U.S. citizens who have excelled academically and demonstrated leadership and community service. Applicants must be high school seniors at the time of application but may use the scholarship for undergraduate and law school education.
- Application Process: Candidates must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The selection process considers academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Benefits: The scholarship covers full tuition, fees, books, and living expenses throughout the recipient’s academic career, including law school.
7. Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans
The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships provide full-ride scholarships to immigrants and children of immigrants who demonstrate exceptional academic and professional potential. This fellowship supports students pursuing graduate degrees, including law, in the United States.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients who are immigrants or children of immigrants. Applicants must be pursuing a graduate degree, including law, and demonstrate academic excellence, leadership, and creativity.
- Application Process: The application includes academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a proposal for a graduate project. The selection process is highly competitive and considers the applicant’s achievements and potential.
- Benefits: The fellowship provides up to $90,000 in financial support for tuition, fees, and living expenses for the duration of the recipient’s graduate program, including law school.
8. Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) Scholarship
The Hispanic Scholarship Fund (HSF) offers scholarships to Hispanic students pursuing higher education, including law degrees. The HSF Scholarship aims to empower Hispanic students to achieve their academic and career goals by providing financial support and resources.
- Eligibility: Open to U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or DACA recipients who are of Hispanic heritage. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to their field of study, including law.
- Application Process: Applicants must submit academic transcripts, a personal statement, and evidence of financial need. The selection process also considers community service and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: The scholarship provides up to $5,000 per year, which can be used to cover tuition, fees, and other educational expenses. While not a full ride, this scholarship can be combined with other financial aid to cover the full cost of law school.
9. Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) Scholarships
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) offers scholarships to students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBIs). These scholarships support students pursuing degrees in various fields, including law, and aim to promote educational access and excellence among African American students.
- Eligibility: Open to students attending HBCUs or PBIs who demonstrate academic excellence, financial need, and a commitment to their field of study. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or permanent residents.
- Application Process: Candidates must submit academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The selection process considers academic achievement, leadership potential, and financial need.
- Benefits: TMCF scholarships can cover full tuition and fees for the duration of the recipient’s academic career, including law school. Additional benefits may include mentorship, networking opportunities, and leadership development programs.
10. Zelle Diversity in Law Scholarship
The Zelle Diversity in Law Scholarship is offered by Zelle LLP, a national law firm, to support law students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups. This scholarship aims to promote diversity within the legal profession by providing financial assistance to students who demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to diversity.
- Eligibility: Open to law students from underrepresented racial and ethnic groups who have completed their first year of law school at an accredited U.S. law school. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence and a commitment to diversity in the legal field.
- Application Process: Candidates must submit a resume, academic transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. The selection process considers academic achievement, leadership potential, and dedication to diversity.
- Benefits: The scholarship provides up to $20,000 toward law school tuition and related expenses. Additionally, recipients have the opportunity to participate in a summer internship at Zelle LLP.
School-Based Scholarships:-
1. Root-Tilden-Kern Public Interest Scholarships (NYU School of Law)
The Root-Tilden-Kern (RTK) Scholarship is one of the most prestigious full-ride scholarships available for law students in the U.S. Awarded by NYU School of Law, this scholarship is designed for students committed to pursuing careers in public interest law. It covers full tuition for all three years of law school and provides additional benefits, such as a summer stipend to support internships in public interest organizations.
- Eligibility: The RTK Scholarship is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service, outstanding academic achievement, and leadership potential.
- Application Process: To apply, students must submit an additional essay as part of their NYU Law application, detailing their commitment to public service. Finalists are invited to interview with the selection committee.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, RTK Scholars receive mentorship from NYU Law faculty and access to a network of public interest professionals. The program also guarantees funding for summer internships, allowing students to gain hands-on experience in public interest law.
2. Moro Scholar Program (Harvard Law School)
Harvard Law School offers the prestigious Moro Scholar Program, which provides full tuition coverage for students with exceptional academic records and a commitment to social justice. This program is named after Judge Frank Moro, a Harvard Law alumnus who dedicated his life to public service.
- Eligibility: The Moro Scholar Program is open to all admitted Harvard Law students, with a focus on those who have demonstrated a commitment to social justice and public service. Academic excellence and leadership qualities are also key factors in the selection process.
- Application Process: There is no separate application for the Moro Scholar Program. Instead, all admitted students are automatically considered based on their law school application and demonstrated commitment to public service.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Moro Scholars receive funding for summer public interest work, mentorship from faculty, and the opportunity to engage in exclusive networking events with legal professionals committed to social justice.
3. Levy Scholars Program (University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School)
The Levy Scholars Program at the University of Pennsylvania Carey Law School offers full tuition coverage to students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and leadership potential. This program is designed for students who are not only academically gifted but also show a strong commitment to leadership in their future legal careers.
- Eligibility: The Levy Scholars Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact through the law.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Levy Scholars Program. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Levy Scholars receive personalized career advising, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with Penn Law faculty.
4. Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program (Stanford Law School)
The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is a prestigious, university-wide scholarship at Stanford University that offers full funding to incoming graduate students, including those at Stanford Law School. This program aims to develop a community of future global leaders who are committed to finding solutions to the world’s most pressing challenges.
- Eligibility: The Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program is open to all incoming Stanford Law students, as well as those pursuing other graduate degrees at Stanford. Applicants must demonstrate leadership potential, an entrepreneurial spirit, and a commitment to public service.
- Application Process: Interested students must apply separately to Stanford Law School and the Knight-Hennessy Scholars Program. The application includes essays, recommendations, and a video statement. Finalists are invited to a selection weekend at Stanford.
- Benefits: The Knight-Hennessy Scholarship covers full tuition, living expenses, and provides a generous stipend for personal expenses. Scholars also receive funding for internships, research projects, and leadership development programs.
5. The 1843 Scholars Program (Boston College Law School)
Boston College Law School offers the 1843 Scholars Program, a prestigious scholarship that covers full tuition for three years of law school. This program is designed for students with exceptional academic records, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Eligibility: The 1843 Scholars Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership, and a commitment to public service.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the 1843 Scholars Program. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and personal achievements.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, 1843 Scholars receive mentorship from Boston College Law faculty, funding for summer internships, and access to exclusive networking events.
6. Public Interest Scholars Program (UC Berkeley School of Law)
UC Berkeley School of Law offers the Public Interest Scholars Program, which provides full tuition coverage for students committed to public interest law. This program is part of Berkeley Law’s broader commitment to supporting students who aspire to use their legal education to promote social justice and public service.
- Eligibility: The Public Interest Scholars Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and social justice. Academic achievement and leadership potential are also considered in the selection process.
- Application Process: To apply, students must submit an additional essay as part of their Berkeley Law application, detailing their commitment to public service and how they plan to use their legal education to make a difference.
- Benefits: Public Interest Scholars receive full tuition coverage, mentorship from Berkeley Law faculty, and guaranteed funding for summer public interest work. Scholars are also part of a close-knit community of students and alumni dedicated to public service.
7. Dean’s Scholarship Program (Columbia Law School)
Columbia Law School offers the Dean’s Scholarship Program, a merit-based scholarship that covers full tuition for three years of law school. This program is designed for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact through the law.
- Eligibility: The Dean’s Scholarship Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Dean’s Scholarship Program. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Dean’s Scholars receive personalized career advising, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with Columbia Law faculty.
8. Public Service Scholarship (University of Virginia School of Law)
The University of Virginia School of Law offers the Public Service Scholarship, which provides full tuition coverage for students committed to pursuing careers in public interest law. This scholarship is part of UVA Law’s broader commitment to supporting students who aspire to use their legal education to promote social justice and public service.
- Eligibility: The Public Service Scholarship is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and social justice. Academic achievement and leadership potential are also considered in the selection process.
- Application Process: To apply, students must submit an additional essay as part of their UVA Law application, detailing their commitment to public service and how they plan to use their legal education to make a difference.
- Benefits: Public Service Scholars receive full tuition coverage, mentorship from UVA Law faculty, and guaranteed funding for summer public interest work. Scholars are also part of a close-knit community of students and alumni dedicated to public service.
9. Public Interest Fellowship (Duke University School of Law)
Duke University School of Law offers the Public Interest Fellowship, which provides full tuition coverage for students committed to pursuing careers in public interest law. This scholarship is part of Duke Law’s broader commitment to supporting students who aspire to use their legal education to promote social justice and public service.
- Eligibility: The Public Interest Fellowship is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who demonstrate a strong commitment to public service and social justice. Academic achievement and leadership potential are also considered in the selection process.
- Application Process: To apply, students must submit an additional essay as part of their Duke Law application, detailing their commitment to public service and how they plan to use their legal education to make a difference.
- Benefits: Public Interest Fellows receive full tuition coverage, mentorship from Duke Law faculty, and guaranteed funding for summer public interest work. Fellows are also part of a close-knit community of students and alumni dedicated to public service.
10. Regents’ Scholarship (UCLA School of Law)
UCLA School of Law offers the Regents’ Scholarship, which provides full tuition coverage for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. This scholarship is part of UCLA Law’s broader commitment to supporting students who aspire to make a positive impact through the law.
- Eligibility: The Regents’ Scholarship is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to public service.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Regents’ Scholarship. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Regents’ Scholars receive personalized career advising, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with UCLA Law faculty.
11. Faculty Scholars Program (Georgetown University Law Center)
Georgetown University Law Center offers the Faculty Scholars Program, which provides full tuition coverage for students who demonstrate exceptional academic achievement and leadership potential. This scholarship is designed for students who are not only academically gifted but also show a strong commitment to leadership in their future legal careers.
- Eligibility: The Faculty Scholars Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact through the law.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Faculty Scholars Program. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Faculty Scholars receive personalized career advising, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with Georgetown Law faculty.
12. Presidential Scholarship (Northwestern Pritzker School of Law)
The Presidential Scholarship at Northwestern Pritzker School of Law offers full tuition coverage to students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability and leadership potential. This scholarship is designed for students who are not only academically gifted but also show a strong commitment to leadership in their future legal careers.
- Eligibility: The Presidential Scholarship is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact through the law.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Presidential Scholarship. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, presidential scholars receive personalized career advice, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with Northwestern Law faculty.
13. Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars Program (University of Michigan Law School)
The Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars Program at the University of Michigan Law School offers full tuition coverage to students who demonstrate exceptional academic ability, leadership potential, and a commitment to social justice. This scholarship is designed for students who are not only academically gifted but also show a strong commitment to using their legal education to promote social justice and public service.
- Eligibility: The Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars Program is open to U.S. citizens and permanent residents who have demonstrated academic excellence, leadership potential, and a commitment to making a positive impact through the law.
- Application Process: All admitted students are automatically considered for the Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars Program. The selection committee evaluates applicants based on their academic records, LSAT scores, and leadership experiences.
- Benefits: In addition to full tuition coverage, Martin Luther King, Jr. Scholars receive personalized career advising, access to exclusive leadership development programs, and the opportunity to participate in high-level research projects with Michigan Law faculty.