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Opportunities for Pre-Law, Public Policy, and Social Justice Interested Students

Pre-Law Summer Programs

  • TRIALS -  TRIALS, a partnership between Harvard Law School, NYU School of Law, and the Advantage Testing Foundation, is a fully subsidized summer program for underrepresented students. Spanning five weeks, the program alternates between Harvard and NYU. It offers intensive LSAT preparation, including practice tests and personalized study plans. Participants also attend lectures from prominent legal figures and gain practical experience through fieldwork in Boston and New York City. TRIALS helps students develop academic skills, explore legal careers, and engage with communities similar to those they will encounter in law school.

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  • Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program - The Donald J. Weidner Summer for Undergraduates Program at Florida State University College of Law offers a comprehensive, month-long immersion in legal studies. This prestigious program includes daily classes taught by law professors, simulating first-year law school experiences, and workshops to enhance writing and communication skills. Participants also receive guidance on the law school admissions process, including LSAT preparation, personal statements, and career planning. The program features visits to the Florida Supreme Court, moot court oral arguments, and talks from prominent attorneys and judges. 

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  • UVA Law Roadmap Scholars - The UVA Law Roadmap Scholars Initiative, launched in February 2022, supports undergraduate sophomores from diverse backgrounds interested in law. The program offers a three-week summer immersion in Charlottesville, including mini-courses on legal topics, field trips, and workshops on law school applications. Scholars receive room, board, and a $3,000 stipend. During their junior year, participants get LSAT prep funding, mentoring from UVA Law students and alumni, and faculty support. The second summer includes a two-week application boot camp and a legal internship with provided travel, housing, and stipends. The initiative fosters ongoing support and aims to build a strong network of future legal professionals.

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  • Duke Prelaw Fellowship Program - The Duke Prelaw Fellowship Program is a four-week residential summer program (June 2 – June 28, 2024) for rising college sophomores and juniors interested in law. It offers 24 selected students a comprehensive introduction to legal studies and the profession. The program targets students from the Southeast U.S., with special encouragement for those from underrepresented communities, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-serving institutions, and first-generation or socioeconomically disadvantaged students. The fellowship provides all expenses, including room, board, and a $1,000 stipend. Participants engage in coursework and gain insights into pursuing a legal education.

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  • Lex Fellowship - The Lex Fellowship is one of the only—if not the only—study abroad programs designed specifically for pre-law students. Over 1-9 weeks during college breaks, participants visit 3-25 law firms, gaining hands-on exposure to multiple legal specialties in top global destinations like the U.S., UK, Spain, Italy, and France. The program is undeniably expensive, but highly competitive applicants may earn a full merit-based scholarship. Partial need-based aid is also available. With housing, meals, insurance, and excursions included, Lex offers a one-of-a-kind opportunity to combine professional development with international travel—an invaluable experience for future law students.

Pre-Law Fellowships (LSAT Prep, admissions counseling, mentorship, cohort experience)

  • SEO Catalyst - Catalyst is a free, virtual pre-law program that supports individuals from underserved communities through the law school application process. The program offers a customized LSAT prep course, workshops to enhance application materials, personalized application reviews, exclusive discussions with law school admissions officers, and community-building opportunities with diverse prospective students. Participants also receive mentorship from practicing attorneys, helping to strengthen their law school applications and career prospects.

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  • Harvard Future Leaders in Law - The Future Leaders in Law Program is a fully-funded, yearlong initiative at Harvard Law School for first-generation and socioeconomically disadvantaged individuals. It includes a weeklong residency at HLS, LSAT preparation, mentorship, networking, academic and professional skill-building, and field trips. Participants receive need-based assistance for application fees and a $3,000 stipend upon completion. The program aims to inspire and prepare participants for law school and legal careers, emphasizing early talent development.

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  • Yale Launchpad Scholars - The Yale Law School Launchpad Scholars Program, powered by Latham & Watkins, aims to increase equity in education and the legal profession by supporting diverse applicants. Addressing barriers like high application costs, the program offers mentorship, LSAT prep, and guidance to help participants successfully apply to law schools. It seeks to diversify the legal field and empower students from all backgrounds to reach their full potential as future legal professionals and leaders.

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  • Stanford Law Scholars Institute - The Stanford Law Scholars Institute (SLSI) aims to diversify the legal profession by supporting undergraduate students exploring legal careers. This free, residential program at Stanford enhances participants' skills, analytic abilities, and understanding of law school applications and the LSAT. It combines learning with mentorship from legal professionals and Stanford faculty. SLSI covers travel, meals, a $3,000 stipend, and law school application fees, continuing support through online training, peer coaching, and mentoring.

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  • PreProBono - The PreProBono Fellowship is a highly selective, year-long program designed to help financially disadvantaged and underrepresented students gain acceptance into top law schools. Fellows receive unlimited access to comprehensive LSAT instruction from 7Sage LSAT, admissions workshops, and networking and mentorship opportunities with established and rising public interest lawyers. Emphasizing a “Pay It Forward” model, fellows are also responsible for running the program for the next cohort, creating a supportive network of public interest-minded individuals dedicated to social justice and conscientious careers in law. A $500 refundable deposit is required, with a focus on developing future leaders in the legal field.

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  • AccessLex Lex Scholars - LexScholars is a diversity initiative addressing unequal access to legal education and aiming to diversify the legal profession. The program targets aspiring law students from underrepresented racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic backgrounds who have the potential for law school success but face barriers to admission. Through its LexPreLaw and LexPostBacc programs, LexScholars offers LSAT preparation, admission counseling, financial education, writing skills development, and networking with current students and legal professionals. The program is free, with some participants receiving stipends and financial aid, supporting over 1,200 aspiring lawyers committed to pursuing law school and advancing diversity in the legal field.

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  • LSAC PLUS Program - The Plus, Guided Journey program supports aspiring law students facing structural barriers by providing a year of comprehensive support. Designed for those applying to U.S. law schools in the upcoming fall cycle, the program offers financial assistance, tailored LSAT prep, and application guidance at no cost. Participants receive virtual and in-person support, including workshops, community-building, and financial aid education. The program emphasizes a strengths-based, community-centered approach, helping scholars navigate the application process and connect with law school professionals. Benefits include LSAC fee waivers, tailored preparation, and involvement in a supportive cohort of peers.

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  • Barrier Breakers - Barrier Breakers is a nonprofit organization that provides high-touch college and law school admissions advising to students of all backgrounds, races, and income levels. Their team includes former admissions deans, directors, and professional writers, specializing in supporting first-generation and marginalized students who are less likely to enroll in higher education and more likely to take on excessive debt. Through generous donations, they offer their services for free or at cost to low-income students. Barrier Breakers also provides ongoing support to ensure their students graduate and secure employment, making higher education more accessible and equitable.

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  • Zero L Harvard Law School - An online course designed to equip students with the foundational legal knowledge needed to succeed in law school. Developed by Harvard Law, Zero-L helps bridge the legal knowledge gap, ensuring that all students, regardless of background, enter law school feeling prepared and confident. The course introduces key legal concepts, terminology, and procedures while fostering the ability to think like a law student. By completing Zero-L, students gain a deeper understanding of the U.S. legal system and enter their law school classes ready to engage and excel.

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  • Practice Pro Pre-Law Diversity Scholarship - Helps students overcome financial and informational barriers to law school by providing expert guidance in legal recruiting and career preparation. Scholars receive up to $1,500 for LSAT prep courses, tutoring, books, and exam fees, along with personalized admissions and career coaching on applications, personal statements, resumes, interviews, and scholarship negotiations. The program includes a 12-month training curriculum to prepare for law school and first-year internships, plus mentorship from top attorneys and access to a nationwide peer network. Scholars also receive free admission to PracticePro’s 2025 law student career conferences. Open to juniors, seniors, and recent graduates (last five years) applying for Fall 2025 admission (Class of 2029) with a minimum 3.2 GPA, prioritizing individuals from underrepresented or disadvantaged backgrounds.

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  • LawyHer.org - Founded by a young Black woman and recent graduate of Yale law school, LawyHer is an organization dedicated to empowering marginalized law school applicants, law students, and women lawyers by fostering authenticity in the legal profession. LawyHer believes that no one should have to sacrifice who they are to succeed in law. Through mentorship, LSAT guidance, and application support, the organization ensures that aspiring women and nonbinary legal professionals gain admission to law school while embracing their identities. LawyHer offers free personal statement reviews, affordable consulting services, and the LawyHer Fellows Program, which provides comprehensive application support for women of color, including LSAT prep and mentorship. Additionally, they partner with companies to donate and discount LSAT prep materials, maintain a weekly resource hub, and host career development workshops. Through social media, LawyHer challenges traditional professionalism norms and uplifts women and nonbinary individuals in law. By advocating for inclusivity and authenticity, LawyHer is redefining what it means to be a legal professional.

Incredible Scholarship/Fellowships

  • Harry S. Truman Scholarship - The Truman Fellowship, officially known as the Harry S. Truman Scholarship, is a prestigious award for college juniors pursuing careers in public service. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or nationals, have a strong academic record, and demonstrate a commitment to public service through relevant experience. The scholarship provides up to $30,000 for graduate study, leadership training, and access to a network of Truman Scholars. Ideal candidates are those dedicated to making a difference in government, non-profits, or related fields. Successful applicants show academic excellence, leadership potential, and a clear vision for a career in public service.

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  • The Obama Chesky Scholarship - The Obama-Chesky Scholarship for Public Service, also known as the Voyager Scholarship was created by the Obamas and Brian Chesky, aims to develop young leaders capable of bridging divides and addressing global challenges. This two-year program is open to college students in their third year who have a passion for public service. It offers up to $50,000 in financial aid, including $25,000 annually for college expenses and a $10,000 stipend for a summer work-travel experience with free Airbnb housing. Scholars also receive a $2,000 annual travel credit for ten years post-graduation, access to a network of leaders, and opportunities for professional development. The program emphasizes financial aid, immersive experiences, and mentorship to inspire and prepare the next generation of public service leaders.

International/Study Abroad

  • Humanity in Action Fellowship - The Humanity in Action Fellowship is an intensive three-week program that brings together international groups of college students and recent graduates to explore social justice issues in various cities across Europe and the United States. Fellows study past and present challenges faced by local communities, focusing on human rights, discrimination, and civic engagement. Each program is tailored to its specific location, offering a unique curriculum that examines the host city's history of injustice and current societal struggles. Participants engage in lectures, discussions, site visits, and workshops led by academics, activists, and community leaders. The fellowship is open to undergraduate students, recent graduates, and young professionals passionate about social justice and human rights. Applicants should demonstrate intellectual curiosity, open-mindedness, and a collaborative spirit. The application process typically involves submitting essays, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

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  • UK Summer institute Fulbright Commission - The UK Summer Institute Fulbright Commission offers three-to-four-week programs for US undergraduate students to experience higher education in the United Kingdom. These summer institutes provide American students with the opportunity to explore British culture, history, and academic institutions. Participants attend lectures, seminars, and cultural excursions designed to enhance their understanding of the UK and its educational system. The program is ideal for students who have little or no experience studying abroad and are interested in broadening their international perspectives. Applicants should be US citizens, enrolled as undergraduates at accredited US institutions, and have a strong academic record. The application process typically includes submitting academic transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation

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  • Gilman Scholarship - The Gilman Scholarship is a program that awards up to $8,000 to US undergraduate students to cover study abroad expenses. It aims to diversify the pool of students who study and intern abroad by supporting undergraduates who might otherwise not participate due to financial constraints. Applicants must be US citizens receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university. The scholarship requires applicants to write three short essays addressing their goals, thoughts on diversity, and plans for promoting the Gilman Scholarship upon return. This last requirement, known as the Follow-on Service Project, is a unique aspect of the Gilman program, encouraging recipients to share their experiences and inspire others to pursue international education opportunities

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  • Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship - The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship is an eight-week summer program based in Dublin, Ireland, designed to honor the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Daniel O'Connell, two influential figures in the fight for freedom and social justice. This immersive internship offers participants the chance to work with Irish organizations while earning academic credits through an internship seminar that includes lectures on Irish history and social change. Open to undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0, the program particularly encourages applications from Pell-eligible students. The fully sponsored program covers all costs, including airfare, housing, and field trips, while fostering a commitment to the principles of equality and advocacy that Douglass and O'Connell championed. Applicants are selected based on their demonstrated interest in gaining work experience in Ireland and their dedication to promoting inclusivity and social justice.

Graduate School Funding

  • Rhodes Scholarship: One of the oldest and most prestigious international scholarship programs, it enables young leaders from around the world to study at the University of Oxford.

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  • Gates Cambridge Scholarship: Awards full scholarships to outstanding applicants from outside the UK to pursue a postgraduate degree at the University of Cambridge, focusing on leadership and public service.

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  • DACOR Bacon House Foundation Fellowships: Provides scholarships and fellowships to students pursuing careers in diplomacy, development, and international relations.

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  • World Politics and Statecraft Fellowship: Supports PhD dissertation research on American foreign policy, international relations, and related fields.

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  • Marshall Scholarship: Finances young Americans of high ability to study for a graduate degree in the United Kingdom.

International/Study Abroad

  • Humanity in Action Fellowship - The Humanity in Action Fellowship is an intensive three-week program that brings together international groups of college students and recent graduates to explore social justice issues in various cities across Europe and the United States. Fellows study past and present challenges faced by local communities, focusing on human rights, discrimination, and civic engagement. Each program is tailored to its specific location, offering a unique curriculum that examines the host city's history of injustice and current societal struggles. Participants engage in lectures, discussions, site visits, and workshops led by academics, activists, and community leaders. The fellowship is open to undergraduate students, recent graduates, and young professionals passionate about social justice and human rights. Applicants should demonstrate intellectual curiosity, open-mindedness, and a collaborative spirit. The application process typically involves submitting essays, academic transcripts, and letters of recommendation.

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  • UK Summer institute Fulbright Commission - The UK Summer Institute Fulbright Commission offers three-to-four-week programs for US undergraduate students to experience higher education in the United Kingdom. These summer institutes provide American students with the opportunity to explore British culture, history, and academic institutions. Participants attend lectures, seminars, and cultural excursions designed to enhance their understanding of the UK and its educational system. The program is ideal for students who have little or no experience studying abroad and are interested in broadening their international perspectives. Applicants should be US citizens, enrolled as undergraduates at accredited US institutions, and have a strong academic record. The application process typically includes submitting academic transcripts, essays, and letters of recommendation

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  • Gilman Scholarship - The Gilman Scholarship is a program that awards up to $8,000 to US undergraduate students to cover study abroad expenses. It aims to diversify the pool of students who study and intern abroad by supporting undergraduates who might otherwise not participate due to financial constraints. Applicants must be US citizens receiving Federal Pell Grant funding at a two-year or four-year college or university. The scholarship requires applicants to write three short essays addressing their goals, thoughts on diversity, and plans for promoting the Gilman Scholarship upon return. This last requirement, known as the Follow-on Service Project, is a unique aspect of the Gilman program, encouraging recipients to share their experiences and inspire others to pursue international education opportunities

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  • Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship - The Douglass-O'Connell Global Internship is an eight-week summer program based in Dublin, Ireland, designed to honor the legacies of Frederick Douglass and Daniel O'Connell, two influential figures in the fight for freedom and social justice. This immersive internship offers participants the chance to work with Irish organizations while earning academic credits through an internship seminar that includes lectures on Irish history and social change. Open to undergraduate students with a minimum GPA of 3.0, the program particularly encourages applications from Pell-eligible students. The fully sponsored program covers all costs, including airfare, housing, and field trips, while fostering a commitment to the principles of equality and advocacy that Douglass and O'Connell championed. Applicants are selected based on their demonstrated interest in gaining work experience in Ireland and their dedication to promoting inclusivity and social justice.

Education/Educational Equity/Education Policy

  • Telluride Association Summer Program, Critical Black Studies or Anti-Oppressive Studies Factotum - The Telluride Association offers a summer job as a “factotum” within its Summer Seminar programs. Factotums are resident advisors and teaching assistants who play a crucial role in guiding high school students through their educational and community-building experiences. They lead writing workshops, assist with critical reading and writing skills, and help facilitate a democratic and inclusive community environment. Factotums live with the students, providing mentorship and support throughout the program. The summer program itself lasts for 5 weeks, with an additional 2 weeks of training, making the total duration approximately 7 weeks. The role is ideal for individuals passionate about education, social justice, Black studies, and anti-oppressive studies, as they support the scholarly work of the students alongside their critical studies seminars. The position pays around $10,000 for the summer. Applications for the factotum role are typically open during the winter, with the application period running from November to January.

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  • IGNITE: Teach For America - This is a virtual, part-time internship that can be completed during the school year. Ignite Fellows lead virtual tutoring sessions, dedicating 3-5 hours per week for a 14-week term. The program starts with 2 weeks of onboarding, followed by 12 weeks of tutoring elementary reading, middle school math, or high school post-secondary access. Fellows build relationships with students to foster belonging and accelerate learning. They must be enrolled in college or graduate programs and have a strong commitment to educational equity, relationship-building, and self-reflection. The role requires effective schedule management to complete training and the entire Fellowship. International students on work visas are ineligible.

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  • Southern Education Leadership Initiative - The Southern Education Leadership Initiative (SELI) is an eight-week paid summer fellowship for emerging leaders interested in advancing racial equity and improving education. Fellows work in nonprofits, school districts, or state education agencies in the South, developing leadership skills and engaging with stakeholders. They receive a $5,000 living expense stipend, travel expenses, and training. The program is open to undergraduate and graduate students aged 20-35 with at least junior status and an interest in social justice or education policy. SELI aims to continue the Southern Education Foundation's legacy of educating leaders in the South and addressing educational inequities for Black and Brown children.

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  • Leaders of Color Fellowship - The Leaders of Color Fellowship is a fully funded six-month program for individuals committed to improving education systems and outcomes for Black and Latinx children. Fellows engage in community-focused projects, receive personal coaching, and explore historical and current issues impacting education. Ideal candidates are based in Louisiana, Memphis, or Washington, D.C., with a passion for public service, civic leadership, and expanding education equity.

Fellowships and  Leadership Development Programs

  • Faith and Politics Institute John Lewis Scholars and Fellows Program - The John Lewis Scholars and Fellows Program honors the legacy of civil rights leader John Lewis by providing opportunities for young leaders to engage in social justice work including a pilgrimage to Selma and other civil rights sites. Scholars and Fellows explore the principles of non-violence and grow as servant leaders. Participants typically engage in research, advocacy, and community service projects related to civil rights and social equality. The program is open to college students and recent graduates committed to continuing John Lewis's work. It aims to develop the next generation of civil rights leaders and promote nonviolent social change. 

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  • Institute for Responsible Citizenship - The Institute for Responsible Citizenship’s Washington Program selects exceptional African American male college sophomores from diverse institutions across the U.S. for a rigorous two-summer fellowship. Eligible students must be completing their second year at an accredited college or university and have a strong academic record with active campus involvement. The program offers high-level internships in fields such as law, business, and government, along with academic seminars, professional development, and networking opportunities with prominent leaders. Scholars are expected to commit to two consecutive summers, with potential stipends provided for unpaid internships. The program aims to develop leadership skills and prepare participants for impactful careers in public service and beyond.

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  • John Lewis Young leaders program - The John Lewis Young Leaders (JLYL) Program is a year-long undergraduate fellowship dedicated to empowering the next generation of social justice and civic leaders. Originally launched in 2017 and restructured in 2022 to honor the friendship between John Lewis and Robert Kennedy, the program equips students with the skills, knowledge, and networks to drive meaningful change. Fellows engage their campuses and communities through a capstone project focused on human rights and civic engagement. They receive 1:1 mentorship from RFK Human Rights staff, grassroots organizing workshops, financial support, and access to a vast network of human rights professionals and alumni. By providing these resources, JLYL prepares students for careers in community organizing and advocacy, ensuring they have the tools to build a more just and equitable future. The program seeks highly motivated students passionate about social change, ready to lead movements and make a lasting impact.

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  • Courageous Equity Leadership Fellow - The Courageous Equity Leadership Fellows program is designed for college students interested in race studies and facilitating conversations about race using the Courageous Conversation® framework. Fellows receive extensive training and support, including individual coaching on the Protocol for Courageous Conversation® during the summer. They host and facilitate campus discussions, collaborate globally online, and create events to foster racial relationships. Fellows also work with the Global Foundation to address racial trauma and promote healing. The program emphasizes understanding and applying the Protocol, engaging in self-reflection, and developing a Racial Autobiography™ to guide others in racial literacy and discourse. 

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  • Memorial Foundation's Social Justice Fellows Program - The Memorial Foundation's Social Justice Fellows Program is an 8-week virtual summer program that unites emerging leaders committed to social justice. Fellows participate in online discussions, workshops, and collaborative projects focused on advancing social change. The program is open to young adults with demonstrated leadership potential and a passion for social justice issues. Its mission is to cultivate a network of like-minded leaders who can effectively address societal inequities and drive positive change in their communities.

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  • Harvard Public Policy Leadership Conference - The Public Policy Leadership Conference at Harvard Kennedy School is a fully funded program that introduces college and university students to the study of public policy and potential careers in public service. Participants attend workshops, seminars, and networking events with policy experts and current Kennedy School students. The conference is open to first- and second-year undergraduate students, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities. Its goal is to inspire and prepare diverse young leaders for future roles in shaping public policy. Attendance is fully funded, from airfare to hotel stay to food. 

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  • Aspire Institute - The Aspire Institute offers a fully funded leadership development program for underserved young adults worldwide. Participants engage in intensive training, mentorship, and project-based learning experiences designed to enhance their leadership skills and social impact potential. The program is open to young adults from disadvantaged backgrounds who show promise as future leaders. Aspire's mission is to empower these individuals to make positive impacts in their communities and catalyze global change through effective leadership.

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  • IMPACT Strategies and ARye Inc.Professional Development Program - A virtual professional development program aimed at young professionals interested in politics, advocacy, and social justice. The program provides hands-on experience and training in areas such as public policy, strategic communications, and community engagement. Led by Angela Rye, a prominent political commentator and strategist, it offers unique insights into the political process. The program aims to inspire and equip the next generation of leaders to create positive change in their communities and beyond.

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  • Braven Leadership Accelerator - The Braven Leadership Accelerator connects underrepresented college students in New York City with the skills, networks, and experiences needed to launch strong careers. In partnership with City University of New York (CUNY) campuses, Braven supports first-generation, low-income, and students of color in accessing the city's vast economic opportunities. Through a semester-long, credit-bearing course and six months of post-graduation support, students gain career readiness, leadership training, and mentorship from industry professionals. Since its 2013 pilot, Braven has grown to serve 10,000+ Fellows nationwide, proving that with the right support, students from all backgrounds can not only join top companies but lead them.

Final Thoughts

When I first started college, I was eager to explore opportunities that aligned with my interests. However, I quickly discovered that I had missed many deadlines for programs I would have qualified for and been excited about, simply because I wasn’t aware of them in time. Disappointed by these missed chances, I made a commitment to plan ahead and ensure I never overlooked potential opportunities again—at least, to the best of my abilities.

 

I began scouring the internet for every possible program related to my interests, from residential summer programs to professional development initiatives and fellowships. I didn’t just rely on databases; I also researched various individuals on LinkedIn across the country to see what opportunities they were pursuing. Over time, I compiled this list of programs because many of them might not surface in a standard Google search for "pre-law programs." I hope this list proves helpful for you, as this information should be more accessible!

 

Here is a downloadable document that you can easily share with friends far and wide that is a summarized version of this list!

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