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Reviewed: 03/20/23
Did you know that it’s possible to gain a full-ride law school scholarship? Keep reading to learn about some great law schools with full-ride scholarships.
Law school can be costly. Fortunately, a variety of law schools offer scholarships that cover all expenses to eligible candidates. With awards, students can focus on making the most of law school without the stress of paying tuition.
Read on to learn about some top-rate law schools that offer full-ride scholarships and some tried-and-true advice on how to score one.
If you’re interested in receiving a full-ride scholarship, it’s important to confirm if the schools you apply to offer them. Many law schools only offer smaller merit-based scholarships, which cover a portion of tuition. Check out the following schools if you’re interested in securing a full-ride law school scholarship.
If you’re prepared to apply to law school early, UCLA School of Law offers the UCLA Law Distinguished Scholars Program. Qualified students can choose between three scholarships (the UCLA Law Achievement Fellowship, the Graton Scholarship, and the Emmett Family Environmental Law Scholarship) which are geared toward different backgrounds and achievements.
UCLA Law offers full-tuition scholarships to exceptional applicants who have overcome significant hardships such as socioeconomic disadvantage, being first-generation college students, or other major challenges. California residents receive three years of full tuition, while non-residents get full non-resident tuition for year one and resident tuition for years two and three. Applications require an additional essay detailing obstacles overcome.
Established by the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria, this three-year full-tuition scholarship supports students pursuing careers in Native American law. Recipients join UCLA's Native Nations Law and Policy Center network and can access specialized resources, clinics, and programs. Both Native and non-Native students with demonstrated commitment to tribal communities and Indigenous rights may apply, though early applications are encouraged. Recipients are expected to participate actively in Native American law activities and mentor future students.
This three-year full tuition scholarship is awarded to one exceptional student committed to pursuing environmental law. Recipients join UCLA's Emmett Institute on Climate Change and the Environment, one of the leading environmental law programs nationally. The program offers extensive coursework, experiential learning, mentoring, and connections to alumni in leadership positions. Interested applicants should include an addendum expressing interest in the Emmett Institute with their application. Like other scholarships, non-resident recipients receive full non-resident tuition for year one and resident tuition for years two and three.
Every applicant to Duke Law School is considered for the prestigious Mordecai Scholars program, which seeks out students with exceptional academic and personal achievements. Only four to eight students are named Mordecai Scholars every year, making it highly competitive and sought after.
Applicants can choose between a variety of scholarships and scholar programs offered by New York University Law School, such as the Root-Tilden-Kern Public Interest Scholarships which covers full tuition for the entire three years of study.
Students in need of financial assistance can apply to the University of Pennsylvania Law School’s Robert and Jane Toll Public Interest Scholars Program, which provides full tuition and summer funding for the entire three years of study.
Students can find a wide selection of full-ride scholarship opportunities at Boston University Law School, that are both merit and need-based. The Dean's Scholar Program, for example, awards full tuition coverage to a small group of students for their exceptional academic achievements.
There’s no need to apply to the University of Virginia Law School’s merit-based scholarships, such as the Karsh-Dillard Scholarship, as every applicant is considered. Qualified scholars receive one-on-one mentorship along with a full-ride scholarship.
The Sandra Day O'Connor College of Law at Arizona State University offers various merit-based full-ride scholarships. It’s important to note that students must maintain exemplary grades in order to continue studying under the scholarship. Students looking for full tuition coverage can enroll in the O’Connor Honors Program, which provides full tuition and fees for three years. The program also offers mentorship and special events.
Students can qualify for both merit and need-based full-ride scholarships at the University of Texas Law School. Every applicant is eligible, and there’s a good chance of landing one.
Over 92% of students have been granted a scholarship in the last three years.
Washington University Law has a progressive approach to need-based scholarships. WashULaw recently announced making law school free for all low-income applicants. The university also offers a range of merit-based, full-ride scholarships to qualified students.
Eligible students can qualify for a variety of merit and needs-based scholarships at the University of Chicago Law School, such as the David M. Rubenstein Scholars Program, which offers remarkable students the chance to study law without the financial burden.
You never know—acquiring a full-ride scholarship may be within reach. With so many law schools providing students with a financial head start, it’s wise to try your best to secure one. Read on to learn how you can stand out when applying to law schools with full-ride scholarships.
To earn a merit-based scholarship, it’s helpful to have a sky-high LSAT score. Law schools will quickly recognize the value you bring when you apply with a stellar score. So, study hard and take the LSAT seriously. It can certainly pay off!
Law schools aren’t merely looking for high scores and an outstanding academic record. They’re also on the hunt for candidates with meaningful professional experience. Take the time you need to elevate your resume with diverse, relevant experience that demonstrates your character.
Along with a strong resume, it’s important to ensure that the rest of your application is top-tier. The goal is to stand out from the crowd and make a great first impression. Write essays and personal statements that tell your unique story in an impactful way. Make sure that you submit an application that’s error-free and carefully constructed.
Many law schools are open to negotiating. If you initially get denied a scholarship from your law school of choice, don’t worry. There’s a chance to change their minds. Craft a compelling letter that convinces the admissions committee of your merit and discloses other full-ride scholarships you’ve been granted.
If you’re serious about landing a full-ride scholarship, it’s important to keep an open mind. Think about whether a tuition-free experience matters more to you than attending your law school of choice. Are you willing to accept an offer at a low-ranking school that offers a full-ride, in comparison to a prestigious law school with a hefty tuition?
If you have more questions about securing a full-ride scholarship, keep reading to learn more.
It depends on what type of scholarship you’re hoping to be granted. Needs-based scholarships don’t require a high LSAT score. However, to be considered for a merit-based scholarship, it’s wise to have a score close to 170.
Securing a full-ride scholarship to law school is highly competitive, with typically less than 5% of law students receiving complete tuition coverage. These scholarships are usually merit-based, requiring exceptional LSAT scores (typically in the 170+ range) and undergraduate GPAs (3.8+).
Arizona State University Law School, Boston University Law School and the University of Virginia Law School are known to offer a wide selection of merit-based scholarships. They’re each committed to rewarding exceptional students with financial support.
UCLA Law offers three full-ride scholarships: the UCLA Law Achievement Fellowship, the Graton Scholarship, and the Emmett Family Environmental Law Scholarship. They’re based on finding applicants with merit, the ability to overcome obstacles, and a need for financial aid.
With so many law schools generously offering full-ride scholarships, there is a wealth of opportunities out there. Your hard work, initiative, and background could pay off.
Try your best to secure a full-ride scholarship, and you may surprise yourself. Before you know it, you’ll be well on your way to a successful career as a lawyer, debt-free.
