Fellowship Programs for Lawyers in 2023 and How to Apply

There are many different fellowship programs available for lawyers, and the best one for you will depend on your specific interests and career goals. Some of the top fellowship programs for lawyers include:

1. Skadden Fellowship Foundation – This program provides two-year fellowships to graduating law students and judicial clerks to work in public interest organizations.
2. Equal Justice Works Fellowship – This program provides two-year fellowships to law graduates who are committed to working on issues related to poverty and inequality.
3. Open Society Foundations – Soros Fellowship for New Americans – This fellowship provides support to immigrants and children of immigrants who are pursuing graduate studies in the United States.
4. The Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs – This program aims to increase diversity in the professoriate and the leadership in the academy.
5. The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans – This fellowship program supports 30 New Americans, immigrants, or the children of immigrants, who are pursuing graduate school in the United States.
6. The AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships – This program places scientists and engineers in federal agencies and Congressional offices, to work on science and technology policy issues.

These are just a few examples of the many fellowship opportunities available to lawyers. It’s important to research and find the program that aligns with your interests and career goals.

Below, we will give you details about these fellowship programs and how to apply for each.

Skadden Fellowship Foundation

The Skadden Fellowship Foundation is a nonprofit organization that provides two-year fellowships to graduating law students and judicial clerks to work in public interest organizations. The program was established in 1988 by the law firm Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, and is considered one of the most prestigious public interest fellowship programs in the United States.

The Skadden Fellowship Foundation provides financial support to individuals who are committed to working in the public interest and have a demonstrated commitment to social justice. Fellows receive a salary and benefits for two years, as well as funding for professional development and training.

The program is open to graduating law students and judicial clerks who have completed their studies by the time the fellowship begins. Fellows typically work at nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and public interest law firms, where they focus on issues related to poverty, civil rights, and inequality.

Skadden Fellows have worked on a wide range of issues, including voting rights, immigrant rights, LGBTQ rights, criminal justice reform, and housing rights, among others. The program has a strong commitment to diversity and encourages applicants from underrepresented groups to apply.

The application process for the Skadden Fellowship typically opens in the fall, and the deadline to apply is in the early spring. The selection process is highly competitive, and only a small number of fellows are selected each year.

How to Apply for the Skadden Fellowship

The application process for the Skadden Fellowship is typically done through their website, skaddenfellowships.org. On the website, you can find the application form, the eligibility criteria, and the deadline for submission. You can also find information about the selection process, the fellowship benefits, and the current and past fellows. The website also includes resources for preparing your application, such as tips and guidelines for writing a strong proposal. Additionally, you can find frequently asked questions and contact information for the Skadden Fellowship Foundation. I recommend that you visit the website for the most up-to-date information and to ensure that you are familiar with the application process.

The application process for the Skadden Fellowship is a competitive and thorough one. The following is a general overview of the steps you should take to apply:

1. Review the eligibility criteria: Before you apply, make sure that you are eligible to apply for the fellowship. The Skadden Fellowship is open to graduating law students and judicial clerks who have completed their studies by the time the fellowship begins.
2. Gather the required materials: To apply, you will need to submit a proposal, a resume, a transcript, and letters of recommendation. Review the application guidelines carefully to make sure that you have everything you need to submit a complete application.
3. Write a strong proposal: Your proposal should clearly describe the problem you want to address, the population you want to serve, and the specific work you propose to do as a Skadden Fellow. Be sure to demonstrate your commitment to social justice and your ability to be an effective advocate.
4. Submit your application: Applications are typically submitted through the Skadden Fellowship website. Make sure that you submit your application before the deadline and that all the required materials are included.
5. Interview: If you are selected as a semi-finalist, you will be invited for an interview with the selection committee, to discuss your proposal, your background, and your motivation for the work.
6. Notification: Final decisions are typically made in the late spring, and the successful applicants will be notified by email.

It’s important to note that the Skadden Fellowship is highly competitive and only a small number of fellows are selected each year. Therefore, it’s essential to put a lot of effort into your application and make it as strong as possible.

Equal Justice Works Fellowship

The Equal Justice Works Fellowship is a two-year fellowship program that provides financial support to law graduates who are committed to working on issues related to poverty and inequality. The program is designed to support early-career attorneys who are passionate about social justice and want to make a meaningful impact in their communities.

The fellowship provides a salary and benefits for two years, as well as funding for professional development and training. Fellows typically work at nonprofit organizations, government agencies, and public interest law firms, where they focus on issues such as housing, education, immigration, criminal justice, and more.

The program is open to law graduates who have completed their studies by the time the fellowship begins. To apply, you will need to submit a proposal outlining the project you would like to work on, as well as your resume and transcripts. The application process typically opens in the fall, and the deadline to apply is in the early spring.

Equal Justice Works is committed to increasing diversity in its fellowship program and encourages applicants from underrepresented groups to apply. The selection process is highly competitive and only a small number of fellows are selected each year.

The Equal Justice Works Fellowship is a great opportunity for law graduates who want to make a positive impact on their communities and gain valuable experience working in the public interest. It’s a chance to gain hands-on experience in a field of your interest, and to be part of a community of dedicated public interest attorneys who are committed to social justice.

How to Apply for Equal Justice Works Fellowship

The application process for the Equal Justice Works Fellowship is typically done through their website, equaljusticeworks.org. On the website, you can find the application form, the eligibility criteria, and the deadline for submission. You can also find information about the selection process, the fellowship benefits, and the current and past fellows. The website also includes resources for preparing your application, such as tips and guidelines for writing a strong proposal. Additionally, you can find frequently asked questions and contact information for Equal Justice Works. I recommend that you visit the website for the most up-to-date information and to ensure that you are familiar with the application process.

The application process for the Equal Justice Works Fellowship is a competitive and thorough one. The following is a general overview of the steps you should take to apply:

1. Review the eligibility criteria: Before you apply, make sure that you are eligible to apply for the fellowship. The Equal Justice Works Fellowship is open to law graduates who have completed their studies by the time the fellowship begins.
2. Gather the required materials: To apply, you will need to submit a proposal, a resume, a transcript, and letters of recommendation. Review the application guidelines carefully to make sure that you have everything you need to submit a complete application.
3. Write a strong proposal: Your proposal should clearly describe the problem you want to address, the population you want to serve, and the specific work you propose to do as an Equal Justice Works Fellow. Be sure to demonstrate your commitment to social justice and your ability to be an effective advocate.
4. Submit your application: Applications are typically submitted through the Equal Justice Works website. Make sure that you submit your application before the deadline and that all the required materials are included.
5. Interview: If you are selected as a semi-finalist, you will be invited for an interview with the selection committee, to discuss your proposal, your background, and your motivation for the work.
6. Notification: Final decisions are typically made in the late spring, and the successful applicants will be notified by email.

It’s important to note that the Equal Justice Works Fellowship is highly competitive and only a small number of fellows are selected each year. Therefore, it’s essential to put a lot of effort into your application and make it as strong as possible.

The Open Society Foundation (OSF)

The Open Society Foundation (OSF) is a network of organizations and foundations founded by philanthropist George Soros. The mission of the Open Society Foundations is to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law around the world.

The organization operates in over 120 countries and supports a wide range of initiatives, including:

• Advancing civil rights, racial justice, and equality
• Promoting transparency, good governance, and accountable institutions
• Supporting independent media, freedom of expression, and access to information
• Advancing public health and access to quality healthcare
• Supporting education and academic freedom
• Advancing justice and human rights in the criminal justice system

The OSF also provides funding for specific fellowship programs, such as the Soros Fellowship for New Americans, which provides support to immigrants and children of immigrants who are pursuing graduate studies in the United States.

The foundation is also well-known for its efforts to promote democracy and human rights in Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Union. It has also supported efforts to combat corruption and improve governance in many countries around the world.

The Open Society Foundations are funded by George Soros and a number of other donors, and they operate independently of Soros and his business interests. The organization is governed by a board of directors and is staffed by a diverse group of professionals with expertise in various fields.

How to Apply for the Open Society Foundation (OSF) Fellowship

The Open Society Foundations have different application websites for different programs and initiatives. Some of the programs may have specific application websites while others may use a general application portal.

If you are interested in applying for a specific program such as the Soros Fellowship for New Americans, I recommend visiting the relevant webpage of the program on the Open Society Foundations website, opensocietyfoundations.org, where you can find the application form, the eligibility criteria, and the deadline for submission.

Alternatively, the Open Society Foundations have a general grant application portal, grants.opensocietyfoundations.org, where you can search for funding opportunities and submit proposals for funding. This portal is designed for organizations, not for individuals, and it’s mainly for organizations that are seeking funding for specific projects or initiatives.

It’s important to note that the Open Society Foundations are selective in the organizations and projects that they fund, and they have a rigorous application process. I recommend visiting the website and reading the guidelines carefully before applying, to ensure that your application is as strong as possible.

The application process for a fellowship from the Open Society Foundation (OSF) varies depending on the specific program or initiative for which you are applying. However, generally speaking, the application process typically includes the following steps:

1. Review the eligibility criteria: Before you apply, make sure that you meet the eligibility requirements for the specific program or initiative for which you are applying.
2. Gather the required materials: You will need to submit a proposal, a resume, a transcript, and letters of recommendation. Review the application guidelines carefully to make sure that you have everything you need to submit a complete application.
3. Write a strong proposal: Your proposal should clearly describe the problem you want to address, the population you want to serve, and the specific work you propose to do as an OSF Fellow. Be sure to demonstrate your commitment to the mission of the Open Society Foundations and your ability to be an effective advocate.
4. Submit your application: Applications are typically submitted online, through the Open Society Foundations website or through a specific application website for a specific program. Make sure that you submit your application before the deadline and that all the required materials are included.
5. Interview: If you are selected as a semi-finalist, you may be invited for an interview with the selection committee, to discuss your proposal, your background, and your motivation for the work.
6. Notification: Final decisions are typically made after the deadline, and the successful applicants will be notified by email.

It’s important to note that the Open Society Foundations are selective in the organizations and projects that they fund, and they have a rigorous application process. I recommend visiting the website and reading the guidelines carefully before applying, to ensure that your application is as strong as possible.

The Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs

The Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs provide fellowships to individuals who have demonstrated superior academic achievement, are committed to a career in teaching and research at the college or university level, and show promise of future achievement as scholars and teachers. The program is designed to increase the diversity of the nation’s college and university faculties by increasing their ethnic and racial diversity. The fellowships are awarded in the following areas: Predoctoral, Dissertation, and Postdoctoral. Fellowships are also awarded to individuals in the fields of sustainabilty and social justice. The program is administered by the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine on behalf of the Ford Foundation.

How to Apply for the Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs

The Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs application website can be found at: https://www.fordfoundation.org/work/fellowships/ford-foundation-fellowship-programs/.

To apply for the Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs, applicants must first determine their eligibility and select the appropriate program for their field of study. The next step is to create an account on the application website, which can be found at https://www.nationalacademies.org/ford-fellowships. Once an account has been created, applicants can begin the online application process, which includes submitting personal information, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or resume, and other materials as required by the specific program.

The application requires several essays, including a personal statement, research statement and diversity statement, three letters of recommendation, and a list of publications, if applicable.

It is important to carefully review the application guidelines and follow all instructions in order to ensure that your application is complete and meets all the necessary requirements.

The application deadline for the Ford Foundation Fellowship Programs varies depending on the program you are applying to. It’s a good idea to check the Ford Foundation website for the current deadline.

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is a graduate school fellowship program for immigrants and the children of immigrants in the United States. The program is open to individuals who are permanent residents or naturalized citizens of the United States, and who are in the early stages of their graduate education. The fellowships are designed to support individuals who are pursuing advanced degrees in any field of study and are intended to help them become leaders in their chosen fields.

The fellowship provides funding for up to two years of graduate study and includes an annual stipend of $25,000 and a one-time tuition grant of $20,000. The program also includes mentoring and networking opportunities, as well as a community of other Soros Fellows.

To apply for the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans, applicants must submit an online application, which includes personal information, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or resume, essays, and letters of recommendation.

The application deadline for the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is typically in November each year. It’s advisable to check the Soros Fellowship website for the current deadline.

It’s important to note that the Fellowship is highly competitive, so it’s crucial to submit a strong application that showcases your achievements, potential, and how the fellowship will help you to achieve your goals.

How to Apply for Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans

The application website for the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is: https://www.pdsoros.org/apply

Applicants can create an account on the website, and then submit their application, including personal information, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. The website also provides more information about the fellowship program and the application process, including eligibility requirements, guidelines for essays and other application materials, and the application deadline.

The Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is a graduate school fellowship program for immigrants and the children of immigrants in the United States. To apply for the fellowship, you will need to follow these steps:

1. Check your eligibility: The fellowship is open to individuals who are permanent residents or naturalized citizens of the United States, and who are in the early stages of their graduate education. You can find more information on the eligibility requirements on the fellowship website.
2. Create an account: Create an account on the application website, which is https://www.pdsoros.org/apply
3. Prepare your application materials: You will need to submit an online application, which includes personal information, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or resume, essays, and letters of recommendation. Be sure to read the application guidelines carefully and follow the instructions for each component of the application.
4. Submit your application: Once you have completed your application, you can submit it online through the application website.
5. Application deadline: The application deadline for the Paul & Daisy Soros Fellowships for New Americans is typically in November each year, it’s advisable to check the Soros Fellowship website for the current deadline.

It’s important to note that the Fellowship is highly competitive, so it’s crucial to submit a strong application that showcases your achievements, potential, and how the fellowship will help you to achieve your goals.

The AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships

The AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF) is a fellowship program that places scientists, engineers, and health professionals in various federal government offices and agencies to work on policy issues related to science and technology. The goal of the program is to provide scientists and engineers with hands-on experience in the policy-making process and to provide policymakers with access to the technical expertise of Fellows.

Fellows are placed in one of the following areas:

• Executive Branch: Including the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and other agencies such as the National Science Foundation (NSF), the National Institutes of Health (NIH), and the Department of Energy (DOE)
• Legislative Branch: Including both the House of Representatives and the Senate.
• Judicial Branch: Including the Federal Judiciary

The fellowship is a one-year, full-time, paid position, and it is open to individuals with a PhD, MD, JD, or equivalent degree in a field of science, engineering, or health. There are also opportunities for postdoctoral researchers, as well as for individuals with a master’s degree or equivalent experience.

To apply for the AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships, applicants must submit an online application, which includes personal information, academic transcripts, a curriculum vitae or resume, essays, and letters of recommendation.

The application deadline for the AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships is typically in August each year, it’s advisable to check the AAAS website for the current deadline.

The program is highly competitive, so it’s important to submit a strong application that demonstrates your qualifications, interest in science and technology policy, and your potential to make a meaningful impact as a Fellow.

How to Apply for AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowship Programs for Lawyers

The application website for the AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships (STPF) is: https://www.aaas.org/program/science-technology-policy-fellowships

Applicants can use this website to learn more about the fellowship program, including the application requirements and process, as well as to access the online application. The website also provides information about the different placement areas and the benefits of being a Fellow.

To apply for The AAAS Science and Technology Policy Fellowships, you will need to visit the AAAS website and navigate to the “Careers” section. There you will find information on the application process, including the application deadline, eligibility requirements, and the application form itself. You will need to submit your CV or resume, a statement of purpose, and several letters of recommendation, as well as transcripts and other relevant materials. It is also a good idea to review the website for additional guidance and information on the program and the selection process.