Funding Law School Resources

There are many options for law school funding.  Please click on the tiles to start exploring the diverse resources available to help secure funding.  Most students apply for multiple sources for funding.

Please take time to plan your finances wisely and explore multiple options to minimize your debt burden and make your legal education more affordable.  The non-profit organization AccessLex offers complimentary one-on-one financial advising to those interested.

Free one-on-one financial advising (through AccessLex)

Non-profit organization AccessLex offers one-on-one financial counseling with Accredited Financial Counselors (AFC®) for hopeful, incoming, current, and graduating law school students. The sessions are designed in order to provide unbiased information that will help you develop a solid working knowledge of scholarships, grants, loan terms, repayment options and more.

Scholarships

There are literally THOUSANDS of scholarships for law school funding. Don’t let a lower GPA hold you back from applying, because not all scholarships are solely based on your GPA. With this in mind, please apply to as many as you feel comfortable. It can only help!

Grants

Explore grants available through federal or state government programs, nonprofit organizations, or foundations. These grants can be based on financial need, academic achievements, or specific criteria related to your background as well as career goals.

Fellowships

Fellowships are often awarded based on academic excellence or specific areas of interest. They may provide financial support or other benefits such as research opportunities, mentorship, or networking.

Work-Study Programs

Some law schools offer work-study programs that provide part-time employment opportunities on campus. These jobs can help you earn money to cover your educational expenses.

Law School Financial Aid

Contact the financial aid offices of the law schools you are interested in attending. They can provide information about loans, grants, and scholarships available specifically for law students. American Bar Association (ABA) 509 Reports are required disclosures that accredited law schools must file each year regarding how many students receive scholarship assistance at each law school.

Employer Sponsorship

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement or sponsorship programs for their employees who want to pursue higher education, including law school. Check if your current or potential employer has such programs in place.

Student loan calculator (through AccessLex)

Determine what you might need to borrow based on the law schools you are considering. Use this resource to explore repayment plans, etc.

Loan repayment assistance program (LRAP)

Loan repayment assistance program (LRAP) might be available for those interested in public interest sector careers. Given that the salaries in the public interest sector tend to be much lower, the US government subsidizes LRAP. You MAY be eligible for federal loan repayment/forgiveness depending on your salary.

Part-Time or Summer Employment

Consider working part-time during your studies or securing a summer job to help cover your expenses. Look for legal internships, clerkships, or related positions in law firms, corporations, or government agencies. Note- most full time law schools do not allow first year students to work full or part-time.

Savings and Personal Contributions

If possible, start saving money early on to contribute to your law school expenses.

Loans

Consider student loans as a last resort. Federal student loans often have more favorable terms and repayment options compared to private loans. Research and understand the terms and conditions before taking on any loans, and borrow only what you need. 

Price breakdown for applying to law school.

LSAC Financial Aid Information

LSAT and CAS Fee Waiver Information

AccessLex

    What is AccessLex?

    AccessLex Institute is a nonprofit organization committed to helping talented, purpose-driven students find their path from aspiring lawyer to fulfilled professional. As a nonprofit organization underpinned by nearly 200 American Bar Association-approved nonprofit and state-affiliated law schools, AccessLex is intently dedicated to the betterment of legal education.

    Student Loan Calculator

    Know what you’ll need to borrow. Explore repayment plans. Identify loan consolidation and refinancing options. Determine how much you can have forgiven under PSLF (Public Service Loan Forgiveness).  Realize the power of prepayment. And more!

    Understanding Law School Admissions and Financial Aid

    Law schools make admission and financial aid offers on a rolling basis, so there is an application window rather than a due date. Check out the steps you need to take, and when to take them, to increase your odds of admission and your potential scholarship dollars.

     

    Free financial resources and advice for financing law school from MAX

    MAX provides quick as well as easy to understand lessons, in-person and online learning options, one-on-one financial coaching from Accredited Financial Counselors, and over $300,000 in scholarship incentives each year to keep you motivated! From paying for law school to investing for your retirement – and every step in between – let MAX be your guide.

    Scholarship databank from AccessLex

    Search over 800 carefully curated and vetted scholarship opportunities and writing competitions — totaling more than $3 million in aid.

    Ronald Tutor Campus Center with bikes in the foreground.
    Ronald Tutor Campus Center with bikes in the foreground.
    Ronald Tutor Campus Center with bikes in the foreground.
    Ronald Tutor Campus Center with bikes in the foreground.
    Ronald Tutor Campus Center with bikes in the foreground.