LGBT Public Interest Scholarship Program

About the Scholarship
This scholarship is intended for law students and/or recent law school graduates studying for the Bar who are either LGBTQ+ or who will be working in the LGBTQ+ space doing public interest work. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds, including those with disabilities.

• The Scholarship will provide financial support to a first, second or third year law student, or recent law graduate to enable the student or recent law graduate to work in the LGBTQ+ public interest arena.
• One or more scholarships of up to $5000 each are awarded annually, subject to the availability of funds and the recommendation of the Commission's Scholarship Committee.

Eligibilty Criteria

Applicants must meet all of the following requirements:

• Must be either a first or second or third year law student in good standing in an ABA accredited law school, or a recent law graduate from an ABA accredited law school still studying for the Bar Exam.
• Have a secured an internship or job for Summer 2026 (which may extend beyond the Summer) and/or the Fall of 2026 with a public interest organization engaged in legal or policy work with a direct impact on LGBTQ individuals.

Applicants will be evaluated based on the strength of their complete application and all supporting materials, as well as their demonstrated commitment to improving the legal and social standing of the LGBTQ+ community. We encourage applicants from a diversity of backgrounds to apply, including those with disabilities.

How to Apply
Complete the online application form by clicking the ABA LGBT Public Interest Scholarship box.

Where indicated, upload required materials to complete the application process:

• Current Resume
• Law School Transcript
• Personal Statement (Not exceeding 500 words)
• Two Letters of Recommendation.

Deadline to submit your completed application is April 27, 2026.

For additional inquiries, contact us at sogi@americanbar.org