Applications are now open for the prestigious 2025 DLA Piper Global Scholarships Programme. This two-year initiative is designed to empower exceptional law students (referred to as Fellows) from developing countries by offering valuable opportunities for practical learning and skill development. The programme aims to nurture future legal professionals and leaders, equipping them to contribute meaningfully to the rule of law in their home countries and beyond.
This scholarship is not a recruitment initiative; instead, it is focused on supporting talented students, building their confidence, and helping them achieve their educational and professional aspirations. Fellows may go on to careers in either public service or commercial fields.
Application Deadline: 20 December 2024
Programme Overview
The Global Scholarships Programme welcomes applications from:
- Undergraduate law students in their penultimate year of study.
- Postgraduate law students pursuing a two-year Master’s programme in a related field.
Key Features of the Programme:
- Aimed at high-achieving law students who may not have access to role models, internships, mentorship, or financial support.
- Provides a range of resources to help Fellows build their skills, confidence, and professional networks.
- Supports their transition from university to further education, training, or employment.
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
- Be a law student in your home country and either:
- In your penultimate year of undergraduate study, or
- Enrolled in or accepted for a Master’s programme in a related field.
- Currently achieve, or expect to achieve, a first-class degree or rank in the top 10% of your class.
- Receive a recommendation from your university.
- Be a citizen of the country where you are applying from.
- Possess a strong command of spoken and written English.
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit the following documents in Microsoft Word or PDF format:
- Academic Transcript: Evidence of your grades from university.
- Recommendation Letter: A letter from a teacher, Head of Department, or Dean of your law school.
- Video Submission: A 2-minute video introducing yourself and explaining your motivation for studying law.
Financial Support Provided
The scholarship offers comprehensive financial assistance, including:
- Full coverage of university tuition fees for two years.
- Costs related to internships, including travel, accommodation, meals, and visas.
- Funding for courses or events that enhance professional development.
- Provision of essential tools such as a laptop, phone, headphones, and high-speed internet.
- Financial assistance for study materials, business attire, and subscriptions.
Learning and Development Opportunities
Fellows will have access to various developmental resources, including:
- Rosetta Stone Language Learning tools.
- A weeklong skills development course, including networking with lawyers and other Fellows.
- Support in defining educational and professional goals.
- Personal branding and CV enhancement guidance.
- Interview preparation and training.
- Access to DLA Piper’s online training resources.
- Internships at DLA Piper offices, working with commercial and pro bono clients.
- Participation in a leadership course conducted by Saïd Business School, University of Oxford, UK.
Contact Information
For queries, reach out to:
- Mthusi Morebodi, Global Scholarship Programme Manager
- Claire Donse, Partner and International Head of Pro Bono
For additional details, visit the official webpage of the DLA Piper Global Scholarships Programme.
