Financial Aid Resources for J.D. Students

At UCLA Law, we believe a legal education should be accessible to any student with the talent and drive to be admitted to our school. Each year, our team of dedicated administrators develops comprehensive financial aid packages to assist more than 900 students with diverse needs and backgrounds.

We help students finance a premier legal education through a combination of grants, fellowships, scholarships and an array of loan options. Nearly 90 percent of J.D. candidates benefit from some type of financial assistance; almost 82 percent receive gift aid that does not need to be repaid. The school also offers a limited number of full-tuition scholarships for qualified students.

Our administrators are committed to helping admitted and prospective students explore resources and create packages tailored to their unique requirements.

Scholarships

  • Full Tuition Scholarships

    The UCLA Law Distinguished Scholars Program is a binding early-decision program providing full tuition for three years to exceptionally qualified students ready to commit to UCLA Law. The UCLA Law Achievement Fellowship is non-binding and provides full tuition for three years to high-achieving students who have overcome significant personal, educational or socio-economic hardships.

    Read more.

  • Dean's Scholarships

    All admitted students are considered for a Dean’s Scholarship. In determining the scholarship amount, both merit and financial need can be considered. Dean’s Scholarships are for all three years of the J.D. program and there is no need to reapply after your 1L year. No new applications are accepted in the 2L and 3L years.

    Instructions for students entering their 1L year in Fall 2023 (students currently enrolled at UCLA School of Law should visit MyLaw):

    Merit Component
    Before we can determine your eligibility for merit, all admitted students must complete the Dean’s Scholarship Consideration Form, provided to you by the UCLA Law Admission’s Office. No additional application is needed for merit consideration.

    Need Component
    UCLA Law has a generous need component, providing significant assistance to domestic students with financial need. Each case is individually considered, but a student who qualifies for a Dean’s Scholarship, based on both merit and need, will generally receive a larger total gift award. If you are unsure whether you will qualify for a need award, we strongly encourage you to apply, even if you believe you will also qualify for a merit award.

    Our awarding process for need-based scholarships takes into account both students' and their parents' financial resources. In order to help the law school’s Financial Aid Office estimate financial need, students and parents must complete the FAFSA or the California Dream Application and the Law School Financial Need Application, both of which collect data about the family profile. The variables considered include family size, assets and income, among other things.

    Application Instructions:

    1. Determine if you must provide your parents’ information on the FAFSA and the need application (see criteria below)
    2. Complete the FAFSA or the California Dream Application (for undocumented AB540 eligible students). UCLA School Code is 001315.  If you have exceptional personal circumstances and are unable to submit either of the two applications, you may email our office. 
      Note: UCLA requires asset information be included on the FAFSA.
    3. Complete the Law School Financial Need Application when it becomes available in mid-January.
    • As part of the need application, admitted students and/or their parents are required to upload their 2021 Tax Return Transcripts (foreign transcripts/tax returns cannot be evaluated). In the rare case when a tax return transcript is not available, the school may accept a signed copy of the 2021 Federal Tax Return along with Schedules 1, 2 and 3, if applicable. Hard copies of tax documents will not be accepted. Please note that all Social Security Numbers (SSN) must be redacted on each tax transcript/tax return submitted.
       
    • Admitted students and/or parents who had U.S. income in 2021 but did not file a U.S. federal tax return must note this on the FAFSA. In lieu of federal tax return transcripts, parents must upload the IRS verification of non-filing. The verification documentation may be requested from the IRS by submitting form 4506-T. Upon review, additional documentation may be requested. Students who did not file a 2021 U.S. Federal Tax Return are able to attach a self-certified statement in lieu of verification of non-filing.
       
    • Even though your Social Security Number is not required on the admission application, the school will not receive your FAFSA and thus will be unable to determine your need eligibility unless you provide us with your SSN. If you have omitted the SSN from your admission application, please contact the UCLA Law Admissions Office at (310) 825-2080 to add it to your application.

    The determination of your financial-need award will only be possible once you have been admitted, and both the FAFSA and the need application have been completed.

    Criteria for determining submission of parent information:

    Students must provide their parents' information on the Law School Financial Need Application and FAFSA unless the student:

    • will be 29 years of age or older by December 31 of the academic year for which he/she is applying
    • can provide documentation that no one has claimed him/her on their tax returns for the last seven years
    • has a dependent other than a spouse (i.e., a child) and provides more than 50% to their support
    • is a veteran
    • was considered as an independent by his/her undergraduate institution through dependency override, and not based on age or marital status. (Documentation required.)

    Students who do not fit the above criteria and do not provide parents' information on the need application/FAFSA or do not upload the required tax documents will not be considered for a need award.

    Newly admitted students who are applying for the need-based component of the Dean's Scholarship should provide both the student's and parents' information on the FAFSA.

    The FAFSA and the Financial Need application should be submitted as early as possible after January 1.

  • Donor-Funded Scholarships

    UCLA Law's donor-supported program consists of numerous endowments and scholarships funded by alumni and friends of the school, as well as law firms in our community. Consideration for student eligibility for these scholarships will take place during the admission process.

    The Thomas A. Kirschbaum Scholarship in Tax Law

    The Thomas A. Kirschbaum Scholarship in Tax Law provides financial and other support to students who are interested in pursuing careers in tax law and policy and places these students at the center of a robust and supportive network of tax law professionals. These merit-based scholarships are awarded annually to incoming students.

    Read more

    Latham & Watkins Scholarship in Business Law

    The Latham & Watkins Scholarship in Business Law provides financial and other support to students who are interested in pursuing careers in business law and policy and places these students at the center of a robust and supportive network of business law professionals. These merit-based scholarships are awarded annually to incoming students.

    Read more

    A. Barry Cappello Scholarship in Trial Advocacy

    Cappello Scholarships, sponsored by program namesake A. Barry Cappello, provide financial awards to admitted students with a history of success and interest in trial advocacy. The Irving H. Green Prize, named for the successful Los Angeles trial lawyer, is awarded annually to the graduating students who have demonstrated excellence in trial advocacy.  This financial support is another way that UCLA’s commitment to trial advocacy is virtually unique among top-tier law schools. 

    For more information, contact Justin Bernstein, Director of A. Barry Cappello Program in Trial Advocacy.

  • Native American Opportunity Plan

    Starting in fall 2022, the University of California Native American Opportunity Plan ensures that in-state systemwide mandatory tuition and fees are fully covered for California residents who are members of federally recognized Native American, American Indian and Alaska Native tribes.

    Eligibility

    To be eligible for this award, students must meet all of the following criteria:

    1. Newly admitted or a current law school student
    2. California resident
    3. Enrolled member in a federally recognized Native American, American Indian and/or Alaska Native tribe
    4. Enrolled in a state-supported UC degree program (i.e., students in self-supporting and certificate programs do not qualify)

    If you are a member of a tribe that is not federally recognized, additional support may be available through external organization, including the Federated Indians of Graton Rancheria Scholarship Fund.

    Documentation Requirements

    Students should file a FAFSA, but no additional application is required.

    Students who are potentially eligible must submit tribal enrollment documentation from their federally recognized tribe or the Bureau of Indian Affairs (BIA).  All documents must be uploaded to www.my.ucla.edu under the ‘Documents’ section of ‘Finances and Jobs.”  Documentation may include any of the following:

    • Certification of tribal enrollment on tribal letterhead
    • Enrollment/membership card that contains the tribal seal and/or official signature of a tribal leader
    • Certification of Degree of Indian Blood (CDIB) if the CDIB includes tribal enrollment information
    • Tribal identification card with an enrollment number

    Students must also submit tribal contact information (address, phone, email) if it is not evident on submitted documentation.

    NAOP Award Amount

    For eligible students, Native American Opportunity Plan will fully cover UC systemwide tuition ($11,700) and Student Services Fees ($1,152).  The maximum NAOP award for the 2022-23 academic year is $12,852.

    If you are already receiving law school gift aid (merit, need, and/or a donor-based scholarship, GOFP) at least in the amount of the NAOP award, then the Native American Opportunity Plan promise has been satisfied.  However, if your law school gift aid does not fully cover UC systemwide fees and Student Services Fees, your Native American Opportunity Plan will cover the difference with additional funding.

    Examples:

    1. Your law school gift aid is $15,000.  The Native American Opportunity Plan promise has been satisfied as your gift aid is greater than the NAOP award.
    2. Your law school gift aid is $10,000.  You would receive an additional aid amount of $2,852 under the Native American Opportunity Plan.
  • External Scholarships

    UCLA School of Law receives notices and information about various scholarships, fellowships and writing competitions sponsored by foundations, alumni associations, bar associations, etc. The Financial Aid Office will post applicable notices on this page or our intranet site as received.   Please note that the posting of these scholarships does not imply endorsement of any organization/scholarship.

    Outside scholarship checks should be sent to UCLA’s Payment Solutions and Compliance office.  The checks should be made out to the UC Regents and contain the student’s name and University ID on the check/accompanying paperwork.  The address is:

    UCLA Payment Solutions & Compliance
    Box 957089, 1125 Murphy Hall
    405 Hilgard Avenue
    Los Angeles, CA 90095-7089 
     

    Deadline: March 28, 2023
    THE GOOSTREE LAW GROUP BRIGHT FUTURES SCHOLARSHIP
    Each semester, The Goostree Law Group Bright Futures Scholarship provides one student (with a demonstrated financial need) with the opportunity to receive $2,500.

    Deadline: March 31, 2023
    SHRAGER DEFENSE ATTORNEYS 2023 SCHOLARSHIP
    The scholarship will be awarded to one student applicant in the amount of $2,500.All eligible applicants will be considered, and the recipient of the scholarship will be chosen based upon his or her submitted essay.

    Deadline: April 3, 2023
    THE LMJ SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM
    The LMJ Scholarship is a diversity pipeline program that seeks to nurture the academic and professional careers of outstanding diverse law students. The LMJ Scholarship program grants scholarships of $10,000 to students for their first year of law school.

    Deadline April 15, 2023
    FEDERAL CIRCUIT BAR ASSOCIATION’S JUDICIAL SCHOLARSHIPS

    Howard T. Markey Memorial Scholarship: An award of $10,000 to honor the memory of Howard T. Markey, the first Chief Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit. Like the other Fund scholarships, this scholarship seeks out law students demonstrating academic promise, economic need, and an interest in the subject matter of the Federal Circuit’s legal community. The Howard T. Markey scholarship also emphasizes a commitment to public service as a remembrance of Howard T. Markey’s unique contribution of values driven by a lifetime committed to the public.

    Giles Sutherland Rich Memorial Scholarship: An award of $10,000 honors the memory of Giles S. Rich, Circuit Judge, United States Court of Appeals for the Federal Circuit, and an author of the 1952 Patent Act. Law students who apply for the Giles S. Rich award should show financial need and reflect academic excellence. They also should consistently demonstrate a dedication to the law, the rule of law, and our court system.

    Deadline April 15, 2023
    FEDERAL CIRCUIT BAR ASSOCIATION’S ASSOCIATION SCHOLARSHIPS
    Board Scholarship: An award of $10,000 will be given. The Board Scholarship seeks to encourage law students showing financial need and demonstrating both academic excellence and outstanding leadership.

    Association Founder's Scholarships: Depending on available funds and other factors, the Association may also consider awarding additional scholarships based primarily on need. The number of these scholarships is limited by monies available. Recently, the Association was able to award three of these scholarships in the amount of $5,000 each.

    Veterans Scholarship: An award of $5,000 to be given to a U.S. Veteran. The award is based primarily on economic need, along with academic promise and an interest in the subject matter of the Federal Circuit's legal community are considered.

    Deadline: April 15, 2023
    CALIFORNIA WORKERS COMPENSATION LAWYERS SCHOLARSHIP
    We know that change begins with investing back in the young individuals who will be the entrepreneurs, activists, politicians, business owners, and community leaders of the future. The California Workers Compensation Lawyers law firm represents victims of on-the-job injuries, and we fight to ensure all of our client’s receive the medical treatment and compensation they deserve.  $1,500 scholarship. DACA eligible.

    Deadline: April 30, 2023
    FOUNDATION’S SIDNEY B. WILLIAMS, JR. SCHOLAR PROGRAM
    Through The Foundation for Advancement of Diversity in IP Law’s Foundation’s Sidney B. Williams, Jr. Scholar Program, selected Scholars will receive both financial and non-financial support, including reimbursement of costs incurred during the law school admissions process, mentorship from experienced IP professional, access to 1L and 2L summer clerkship opportunities, networking opportunities within the organized IP bar, and participation in the PLI patent bar review course.  These opportunities for Scholars, once accepted into the program, can continue throughout law school.  Scholars are also eligible for consideration for $30,000 law school tuition grant awards, payable over the Scholar’s 1L-3L.

    Deadline: April 30, 2023
    WLALA HON. RUTH BADER GINSBURG SCHOLARSHIP
    Each year, the Women Lawyers of Los Angeles (WLALA) scholarship committee offers tuition scholarships to law school students who have demonstrated a commitment to issues affecting women, children, minorities, or other historically marginalized groups.  We have renamed our scholarship in honor of Justice Ruth Bader Ginsburg and have also expanded the scope of our recipients to include students attending law school outside of Los Angeles County who intend to practice law in Los Angeles County or engage in legal work that affects Los Angeles County.  The one-time tuition scholarship will be a minimum of $5,000.

    Deadline: May 1, 2023
    RICHARD D. HAILEY LAW STUDENT SCHOLARSHIP
    Each year, AAJ's Minority Caucus awards a $5,000 scholarship to a minority Law Student member entering their first, second, or third year of law school.  Additionally, the winner receives a registration and travel stipend to attend the AAJ Annual Convention.

    Deadline: May 1, 2023
    THE KATZMAN LAMPERT & STOLL AVIATION LAW SCHOLARSHIP
    The aviation law firm of Katzman Lampert & Stoll is deeply interested in helping students who have an interest in aviation focused law to receive a quality legal education and pursue the career they desire, in spite of any financial challenges they may face. $2,000 One-Time Scholarship.

    Deadline: May 31, 2023
    THE JUDGE JOHN R. BROWN SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION 30TH ANNUAL BROWN AWARD
    The Judge John R. Brown Scholarship Foundation is pleased to announce the thirtieth annual Brown Award. The Award honors excellence in legal writing in American law schools. Any law student currently enrolled in an accredited law school in the United States seeking a J.D. or LL.B degree is eligible to submit a paper for the Award. The amounts awarded for 2023 will be as follows:

    $15,000 First Place,
    $7,500 Second Place,
    $5,000 Third Place,
    $2,500 Finalist,
    $2,500 Finalist

    Deadline: June 1, 2023
    ONE LAWYER CAN CHANGE THE WORLD SCHOLARSHIP
    Each year BARBRI Law Preview honors 10 future change agents who are heading to law school. All ten finalists will be rewarded with scholarships to help pay for the first year of law school. First Place: $10k  |  Second Place: $5k  |  Eight Runners-up: $1k

    Deadline: June 1, 2023
    PLATTNER VERDERAME, P.C.’S ANNUAL CIVIL JUSTICE SCHOLARSHIP
    This annual award will be given to a student interested in any aspect of social or civil justice, who is currently enrolled in, or will be enrolled in, an accredited college or university for the upcoming academic year. Scholarship amount: $2,500.

    Deadline: June 1, 2023
    NATIONAL LGBTQ+ BAR LAW SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP
    The National LGBTQ+ Bar Association and Foundation offers three scholarships of $2,500 each, annually. Students must be accepted or enrolled at least half-time in an ABA-accredited law school to be eligible,* and must complete an application.

    Deadline: June 1, 2023
    TERRY BRYANT SCHOLARSHIP
    The $2,500 law school scholarship will be awarded to a future or current law student who can effectively and creatively tell us why they strive to become an attorney. We want to know what motivates candidates to practice law and what they plan to accomplish in their careers as attorneys.

    Deadline: June 1, 2023
    THE ANNUAL BONNIE ZOOK SCHOLARSHIP
    Slack Davis Sanger understands how important administrators are. That is why we are proud to offer the Annual Bonnie Zook Scholarship, in honor of the firm’s very first employee Bonnie Zook. This yearly scholarship will award $3000 to a student studying Business Administration or Law.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    “REDUCING DRUNK DRIVING IN OUR COMMUNITIES: WHAT CAN STUDENTS DO” SCHOLARSHIP
    Shelly Leeke Law Firm, LLC, wants to encourage students to devise creative ways to keep their communities safer. This scholarship provides students with $2,500 of academic support based on the arguments for increased roadway safety they present in a 500- to 1,000-word article describing what means their communities could use to reduce instances of drunk driving.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    BERTOLINO GOVERNMENT REGULATORY IMPACT SCHOLARSHIP
    As a student finishing up studies, you will soon begin to interact with the government in myriad ways. From applying for a license to engage in your career to filing your taxes or complying with other regulatory entities, the government is an ever-present part of our lives as citizens. We want students to explore the ways that government requirements and regulations can help and hinder them in the future. That’s why Bertolino LLP has initiated our $2,500 Government Regulatory Impact Scholarship.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    MORRIS BART, LLC COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP
    The Community Service Scholarship from Morris Bart, LLC awards one deserving student who is committed to community service with a $2,500 scholarship towards the college or university or graduate school of their choice.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    COMMUNITY GROWTH SCHOLARSHIP
    Viles & Beckman awards a $2,500 academic-based scholarship to a deserving student who is pursuing higher education at an accredited college/university or graduate school.  The Community Growth Scholarship is about ensuring that our schools and local communities are strong presences that sustain and uplift the citizens that make them up.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    ANIDJAR & LEVINE COMMUNITY SERVICE SCHOLARSHIP
    Every year, the Law Offices of Anidjar & Levine awards a $2,500 scholarship. The prize is awarded to a student who best demonstrates the relationship between their community service and future career goals and ambitions.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    MAKE DIFFERENCE SCHOLARSHIP
    We are happy to announce that we are paying it forward with our Make a Difference Scholarship Jenner Law will present this $2,500 scholarship award to a student who has demonstrated exemplary academic performance and who is able to relate how the student’s degree will help make a difference in the world.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    FIGHT FOR SURVIVORS SCHOLARSHIP
    Millions of survivors of sexual and physical assault live in California and the U.S. Our job is to protect their rights and get them justice as they rebuild their lives. We want to support a promising scholar who is passionate about advocating for survivors of sexual abuse. The top candidate will be named the sole recipient of our $2,500 prize.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    WHITE LAW PAYING IT FORWARD SCHOLARSHIP
    White Law PLLC is set to offer its $2,500 Paying It Forward – How My Degree Will Make a Difference Scholarship to students at the start of the 2023/2024 academic year. This scholarship highlights the opportunities students may have to one day repay the communities that helped them achieve their academic goals.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIP
    Friedman & Simon, L.L.P. awards an annual $1,500 academic-based scholarship to a deserving student who is pursuing a higher education at an accredited college or university.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    HOW I MAKE MY COMMUNITY GREAT SCHOLARSHIP
    We at New Frontier Immigration Law are pleased to announce the first edition of our How I Make My Community Great Scholarship. The winner will be awarded the $2,500 prize. Our law office firmly believes in helping people thrive in their communities. All it takes is one determined individual to enact positive change in people’s lives.

    Deadline: June 15, 2023
    REDUCING DRUNK DRIVING IN OUR COMMUNITIES SCHOLARSHIP
    We at Christian A. Schwaner, P.C. are pleased to announce the first edition of our Reducing Drunk Driving In Our Communities Scholarship. The winner will be awarded the $2,500 prize.

    Deadline: June 21, 2023
    FUTURE LAWYERS OF AMERICA
    Bader Scott Injury Lawyers is pleased to announce that we are offering an annual scholarship opportunity worth $2,500 to encourage students in their academic aspirations.

    Deadline: June 30, 2023
    STUDENT WRITING COMPETITION - AMERICAN ASSOCIATION OF PATENT JUDGES
    The American Association of Patent Judges (AAPJ) (see www.AAPJ.us) invites entries for the 2023 Hon. Frederick E. McKelvey Writing Competition. Candidates shall submit essays concerning any subject relating to U.S. patent law. The essays must be original works of scholarship, but candidates are welcome to submit essays prepared initially in the context of course work or other academic activities.  $1,500 in scholarships available.

    Deadline: June 30, 2023
    JT LEGAL GROUP LAW SCHOLARSHIP 2023
    The passion and commitment of a student with ambitions and dreams towards the enhancements of society are characteristics that JT Legal Group sincerely acknowledges. Higher education brings opportunities for prosperity and no obstacle should get in the way of that, especially financial ones. JT Legal Group is looking to award a law school scholarship opportunity in the amount of $5,000 to a student who presents the most equipped and original understanding on the facets of law and legal support.

    Deadline: July 1, 2023
    REPRESENTING REAL PEOPLE SCHOLARSHIP
    Patrick Malone & Associates is offering two scholarships of $5,000 each to law students committed to a career representing individuals.  We call this our “Representing Real People” scholarship. Our goal is to make a dent in the high cost of law school for students who want to represent individuals, to make it a little easier to choose such a career path.

    Deadline: July 14, 2023
    2023 SPRING SCHOLARSHIP
    The attorneys at Alpha Accident Lawyers proudly support students’ pursuit of higher education, which is why we are pleased to introduce the Alpha Accident Lawyers Collegiate Scholarship Program. Each spring and fall semester, one student who has exemplified educational excellence and leadership will be selected to receive this award in the form of $2,500.

    Deadline: July 15, 2023
    DISTRACTION-FREE DRIVING PSA SCHOLARSHIP
    Loncar Lyon Jenkins is accepting applications for its annual $2,500 Distraction-Free Driving PSA Scholarship. Every year the law firm gives this scholarship to one deserving student who creates a video that discourages young drivers from using their cell phones when behind the wheel.

    Deadline: July 15, 2023
    SAMER HABBAS & ASSOCIATES ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP
    We hold academics at a high standard of importance and believe everyone deserves the chance to obtain an education. Unfortunately, education comes at a cost, a pricey one at that. Even the most financially stable individuals can fall into a bit of financial disarray with no warning. This firm understands how unexpected life can be. Struggling to keep a full-time job as a student, while finding ways to fund your education, can feel nearly impossible. Amount: $2,500 to pay for their various college related expenses

    Deadline: July 28, 2023
    SUTLIFF & STOUT LAW SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP
    In an effort to enable more students who have a passion for law to be able to pursue that passion, this firm is offering an annual scholarship contest which will award a law student with a $1,500 award to be put toward his or her law school costs.

    Deadline: July 30, 2023
    LAW SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    In 250 – 300 words tell us about why you want to become a lawyer and how you plan to give back to your community. We at Flores, Tawney and Acosta, P.C. are looking for the most compelling written essay submission. One (1) winner will be selected and awarded $2,000 to put towards their law school tuition.

    Deadline: July 31, 2023
    THE 2023 LAW OFFICES OF DANIEL KIM – SPRING SCHOLARSHIP
    We have seen many of our clients, whose lives were impacted by an accident, recover and go on to lead lives of change in their communities. This has inspired us to assist local students and help them achieve their goals with “The Law Offices of Daniel Kim Scholarship.” The $2,500 scholarship will be awarded to one qualified student who is currently attending or is planning to attend college or graduate school.

    Deadline: July 31, 2023
    GERBEN LAW FIRM, PLLC EDUCATION SCHOLARSHIP
    Gerben Law Firm, PLLC is offering an annual scholarship opportunity for currently enrolled law students interested in practicing trademark law. Gerben Law Firm is committed to assisting the next generation of trademark attorneys through a scholarship to help ease the financial burden of law school.  Annual Scholarship Amount: $1,500.

    Deadline: August, 1, 2023
    LAW SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    Poulos & Coates, LLP is now accepting applications to reward a student $2,500 to put towards their law school tuition.

    Deadline: August 1, 2023
    WHAT DOES JUSTICE MEAN TO YOU – LAW SCHOOL SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    Gounaris Abboud, LPA, criminal defense attorneys, with offices in Dayton, and Springboro, Ohio, are offering this $1,500 scholarship.

    Deadline: August 3, 2023
    DISABILITY RIGHTS ADVOCACY SCHOLARSHIP
    Peace Law Firm would like to announce our Disability Rights Advocacy Scholarship. This $1,500 scholarship is open to undergraduate and graduate students attending or enrolled in the spring/fall 2023 semester. Scholarship money can cover school-related expenses and will be distributed directly to the winner’s school.

    Deadline: September 15, 2023
    THE COLLEGE OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAWYERS AND AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION SECTION OF LABOR AND EMPLOYMENT LAW ANNUAL LAW STUDENT WRITING COMPETITION
    This competition is open to articles written while the author is an active student at an accredited law school in the United States. Authors may not have graduated from law school prior to December 1, 2022. Graduate students in law school (LLM candidates) are not eligible. Prizes are as follows: First Place: $3000; Second Place: $1000, and Third Place: $500.

    Deadline: November 18, 2023
    AARON D. WERSING FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT RIGHTS SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    We want to hear from law students on their thoughts on the following questions. Do your research, cite sources, and give your personal thoughts on the following: 1) How are federal employees’ rights different from employees working in the private sector? 2) Do you feel that federal employees have more or less protections than employees in the private sector? One winner will be awarded with $1,500 to apply towards their law education.

    Deadline: November 30, 2023
    WORKERS’ COMPENSATION LAW FIRM SCHOLARSHIP
    Emery Reddy, PLLC is an award-winning L&I workers’ compensation and employment law firm serving injured workers in Washington state.  The firm is offering its annual scholarship to law school and college undergraduate students. $2,000 will be awarded to one selected law school student.

    Deadline: December 1, 2023
    OTTINGER EMPLOYMENT LAWYER SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    Our employment firm is dedicated to helping employees in New York City, San Francisco, and Los Angeles. We understand the challenges college students face in paying for college. This is why we want to extend our help to students pursuing law degrees and selecting one student to be awarded a $1,500 scholarship to put towards their law school tuition.

    Deadline: December 15, 2023
    DIVERSITY IN LAW SCHOLARSHIP CONTEST
    The attorneys at Flores Tawney & Acosta, P.C., are now offering an exclusive Diversity in Law Scholarship Contest for first and second-year law school students.  We are proud to sponsor a nationwide scholarship to promote diversity within the legal profession. To be awarded is a $2,500 scholarship for law school tuition or other school-related expenses.

    Deadline: December 31, 2023
    ARMSTRONG LEE & BAKER SCHOLARSHIP
    As serious injury attorneys, we are motivated every day to help our injured clients after what is often one of the most difficult moments in their lives. We want to hear from current law students about their motivations in seeking a legal education. We are proud to be awarded a $2,500 scholarship to whoever writes the best essay on that topic.  

    Deadline: Varies Depending on Scholarship
    AMERICAN BAR ASSOCIATION ACADEMIC SCHOLARSHIPS FOR YOUNG LAWYERS AND LAW STUDENTS
    We know every little bit helps when you’re trying to pay for law school. That’s why several ABA groups offer scholarships for law students. Scholarship amounts vary.

     


    Attention Scholarship Donors: All submitted scholarship offers are reviewed, and if a scholarship is deemed as a possible good fit for our student population the offer will be posted on either our intranet (students only) or our external website.  Due to the volume of requests, we are unable to respond to individual inquiries regarding the posting of scholarships.

  • Scholarship Search Engines

    A number of students each year receive non-university scholarships from a variety of organizations, agencies, companies and private individuals. These are not administered by UCLA Law. Criteria may include academic achievement, special talent, leadership ability, and group affiliation. UCLA Law makes information available to students concerning outside scholarship opportunities as it becomes available. You can also view these useful links to gain access to outside scholarship search engines:

Educational Loans

  • Federal Loans (FAFSA Information)

    FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid)

    The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a government form which enables the school to determine students' eligibility for federal loans (Direct Unsubsidized and Graduate PLUS). The FAFSA must be completed each year by all who wish to be considered for federal financial aid at UCLA.

    Completing the FAFSA online reduces errors and improves turnaround time. You can do this by going to studentaid.gov. Request that a copy of the FAFSA be released to UCLA by indicating our school code: 001315.

    The FAFSA should be submitted as early as possible after January 1. Newly admitted students who are applying for the need-based component of the Dean's Scholarship should provide both the student's and parents' information and asset information on the FAFSA. Admitted students who file a FAFSA will receive an electronic Provisional Award Letter (ePAL) in late March. Students filing applications after late March will receive an ePAL on a rolling basis.

    William D. Ford Federal Direct Loan Program

    Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan

    The Federal Direct Unsubsidized Loan program enables qualified graduate and professional students to receive up to $20,500 in a federally guaranteed loan. For the 2022-23 academic year, the Direct Unsubsidized Loan has an interest rate of 6.54 percent and a loan fee of 1.057 percent for loans disbursed before October 1, 2023. The federal government will automatically deducted the loan fee from each disbursement; therefore, your original (gross) amount requested and the disbursed (net) amount will differ.

    The student is responsible for the interest, which accrues immediately upon disbursement. Repayment begins six months after graduation or upon dropping below half-time enrollment.

    All applicants must submit a FAFSA in order to be considered. Once the FAFSA has been processed and the data has been received by UCLA, the borrower will receive an electronic Financial Aid Notification (eFAN) indicating the types and the amounts of financial aid offered.

    The U.S. Department of Education allows all eligible recipients to receive a lifetime amount of $138,500, including Undergraduate and Graduate Federal Loans. However, no more than $65,500 can come from the Federal Subsidized Loan.

    Federal Direct Graduate PLUS Loan

    Graduate and professional students are allowed to borrow through a Federal Direct Graduate PLUS (GPLUS) Loan. For the 2022-23 academic year; the GPLUS loan has an interest rate of 7.54 percent and a loan fee of 4.228 percent for loans disbursed before October 1, 2023. The federal government will automatically deduct the loan fee from each disbursement; therefore, your original (gross) amount requested and the disbursed (net) amount will differ.

    The GPLUS Loan does not have annual or aggregate loan limits (other than the cost of attendance less other financial aid) but requires a credit review. Just as with the Direct Unsubsidized Loan, GPLUS borrowers are eligible for an in-school deferment if they are enrolled at least half-time. The GPLUS has the same payment options, the same deferments and forbearances, and the same cancellation provisions as a Direct Unsubsidized Loan. The student is responsible for the interest, which accrues immediately upon disbursement. Repayment begins six months after graduation or upon dropping below half-time enrollment.

    All applicants must submit a FAFSA in order to be considered. Once the FAFSA has been processed and the data has been received by UCLA, the borrower will receive an electronic Financial Aid Notification (eFAN) indicating the types and the amounts of financial aid offered.

    How is APR different than an interest rate?

    In most cases, you have seen APR (Annual Percentage Rate) related to private loans, car loans and your credit card. What you are being charged for your loan isn’t actually just an interest rate; it’s really the APR. So, what is the APR?

    The APR is the annual cost of your loan. It includes the interest rate and certain fees. In order to accurately compare the cost of loans, you should always compare the APRs rather than just the interest rates.


    Entrance Counseling

    Important! All first-time federal loan borrowers at UCLA need to be informed about borrowers’ rights and responsibilities. Law students will satisfy this requirement by completing an online Entrance Counseling Session. This can be accomplished by reviewing the counseling session materials and taking an online quiz. All quiz results are transmitted electronically to the UCLA Student Loan Services and Collections Office.

    Please be sure to indicate "UCLA, University of California, Los Angeles" as your institution when registering your account to ensure that you are directed to the entrance exam.

    Failure to follow through with this requirement will delay disbursement of your eligible Federal Direct Loan proceeds.

  • Private Student Loans

    Private loans are offered by lenders independently of the Department of Education. Private loans are best utilized only if eligibility for Federal Direct Loans has been exhausted. Private loans are not guaranteed by the federal government. These loans are based on credit and their terms vary based on the lender, from whom you borrow as well as on your (and, if required cosigner’s) credit-worthiness.


    Credit-Based Private Loans

    Federal student loans are available to most students regardless of income and provide a range of repayment options, including income-based repayment plans and loan forgiveness benefits, which other education loans are not required to provide.

    Some students find it necessary to finance a portion of their education through private loan sources. These lenders offer loans to offset the cost of attending law school. The loan terms are printed directly on the application and also are governed by federal and state lending regulations. The choice of lender rests solely with the student, but he/she will need to meet the lender’s credit requirements. Please see UCLA's Preferred Lender List and Code of Conduct – Preferred Lenders.


    Bar Loans

    Law students may apply for Bar Loans for the period after graduation when they are studying for the bar. A Bar loan is an unsecured consumer loan offered to graduating law school students to assist with expenses related to the bar process. These related expenses may include the following: bar examination fees, bar review courses, and living expenses during the period after graduation and prior to being notified of the exam results.

    Bar Loan interest rates are generally higher than those of federal and private loans. Students should review the product guidelines and repayment options before applying. See UCLA’s Preferred Lenders List for a list of Bar Loan lenders.

    Please note: For graduates needing to obtain a Bar Loan after graduation, when using UCLA’s Preferred Lender List (ELM Select), please indicate that your graduation date will be in the future in order to obtain a potential list of lenders that offer this product.

Other Resources

  • Earned Aid

    Earned Aid includes job opportunities for students wishing to reduce loan indebtedness such as UCLA Teaching and Research Assistantships, Summer Public Interest Fellowships.

    Teaching Assistantships

    Through UCLA’s Graduate Division, advanced graduate and professional students have an excellent opportunity to gain practical teaching and tutoring experience in departments outside of the law school while earning an income to offset the cost of their tuition and fees. In-state students who are employed 45 percent or more are entitled to a fee remission of 75 percent of the Education Fee, a fee remission of 75 percent of the Registration Fee, and a fee remission of 100 percent of the Graduate Student Health Insurance Plan. These fee remissions significantly reduce the student’s out-of-pocket expenses for the academic year. This reduction may, in turn, affect a student’s total loan eligibility.

    For more information and to obtain an application, please visit the Graduate Division website.


    Summer Public Service Fellowships

    Through an array of funding sources, UCLA School of Law provides stipends to first-and second-year students who engage in otherwise unpaid summer internships with nonprofit organizations or government agencies (judicial externships are not categorized as internships with government agencies). The application process begins in the spring semester, and students with eligible positions must submit an application in order to be considered for this Fellowship. In summer 2020, UCLA School of Law funded approximately 250 students.

  • Yellow Ribbon Program

    UCLA School of Law participation in the Post-9/11 GI Bill® Yellow Ribbon Program

    The Yellow Ribbon Program is a provision of the Post-9/11 Veterans Educational Assistance Act of 2008. This program allows degree-granting institutions of higher learning in the U.S. to voluntarily enter into an agreement with the VA to fund eligible veterans' tuition expenses that exceed the in-state tuition and fees at public institutions. Details and eligibility guidelines for Post-9/11 benefits, including the Yellow Ribbon Program, can be found at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill under Education Benefits. Alternatively, you may inquire with the VA at 1-888-GIBILL1 (442-4551).

    How Yellow Ribbon Works at UCLA School of Law:

    • The Post-9/11 GI Bill® will pay 100 percent of in-state tuition and fees for eligible individuals attending a public institution. This payment will be sent directly to the school.
    • Under the Yellow Ribbon Program, UCLA School of Law will cover 50 percent of the difference between resident and non-resident tuition and fees, with the other 50 percent to be matched by the VA.
    • UCLA School of Law has established a limit of 10 veterans to receive this benefit in each academic year.
    • Federal law states that Yellow Ribbon awards must be made on a first-come, first-served basis.
    • In order to apply for Yellow Ribbon benefits at UCLA School of Law, an applicant must: 1) be admitted to UCLA School of Law, 2) have 100 percent of the benefits under the Post-9/11 GI Bill® Program, and 3) submit a Certificate of Eligibility (COE) to the Law School Financial Aid Office. An applicant must first be admitted to the law school before submitting his/her COE.
    • Admitted applicants will be placed in the queue based on the date their COE is received by the Law School Financial Aid Office. (Phone calls and email inquiries will not hold a place in the queue).
    • UCLA must reapply every year to participate in the Yellow Ribbon Program.
    • A student who receives a Yellow Ribbon grant from UCLA School of Law will continue to receive it as long as the following conditions exist:
    The student reapplies each year with the Law School Financial Aid Office by submitting the COE letter;
    The student remains continuously enrolled in the program for which he/she initially received the benefit; and
    The student complies with all VA and UCLA School of Law deadlines and procedures.

    ***Students in joint-degree programs must consult
    with both programs regarding Yellow Ribbon participation***

    You may email, mail, or hand deliver your Certificate of Eligibility to the Law School Financial Aid Office. 

    UCLA School of Law
    Office of Financial Aid
    385 Charles E. Young Drive East
    1242 Law Building
    Los Angeles, CA 90095-1476
    Tel: (310) 825-2260
    email: finaid@law.ucla.edu

     

    GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government website at http://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill.

  • Useful Financial Aid Links

Post-Graduate Support

UCLA Law has several programs to help new graduates gain meaningful legal experience while also assisting employers to address unmet needs.

  • Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP)

    UCLA School of Law offers a robust Loan Repayment Assistance Program commonly referred to as LRAP.  This program can provide financial support for recent J.D. graduates employed in public interest or public service settings, where salaries are significantly lower than in the private sector. Graduates may participate in the Program for up to 10 years.

    Through LRAP, UCLA Law has in the past decade covered roughly $4.5 million in student loan payments for J.D. graduates who work in public interest jobs, government positions or judicial clerkships.

    Under UCLA Law School’s LRAP guidelines, alumni with incomes up to $75,000 may have their entire eligible loan payments fully covered. Applicants with incomes up to $100,000 may now receive partial assistance.

    “Student loans are one of the biggest barriers for law students who want to pursue public interest careers,” says Brad Sears, UCLA Law’s associate dean of public interest law. “The support that LRAP provides helps bridge that gap and allows the full diversity of our student body to pursue public interest careers, including students who carry a significant amount of student loan debt.”

    To qualify for LRAP, a graduate must meet the LRAP guidelines which include working for a nonprofit organization, a clerkship or an agency of government in law-related employment that makes substantial use of legal skills.  Because most educational loans offer a six-month grace period following graduation, graduates going directly into qualifying employment will usually receive their first LRAP loan approximately six months after graduation.

    Kia Hayes ’13, a staff attorney at the Innocence Project New Orleans, says that she could not afford to pursue her career without UCLA Law’s LRAP.:

    “I came to UCLA Law because I wanted to dedicate my professional life to criminal and racial justice,” says Hayes, who has helped win the freedom of five men who were imprisoned after being wrongly convicted. “I would not be able to do this work were it not for LRAP. I relied on student loans to cover nearly all my tuition, and I would not be able to cover my monthly loan payments without LRAP.”

  • Public Service Fellowship Program

    The School of Law’s Public Service Fellowship Program seeks to support graduating students who have demonstrated a longstanding commitment to public service, enabling them to work with a variety of nonprofit organizations and government agencies, both domestically and abroad.

  • Professional Opportunity Fellowship Program

    Through the Professional Opportunity Program, UCLA Law and Liberty Hill Foundation have partnered to set up a one year fellowship to allow successful candidates the opportunity to work full-time for up to one year with nonprofit organizations, government agencies or judges. Participants are paid monthly stipends.

  • New Graduate Opportunity Program

    The New Graduate Opportunity Program funds part-time, temporary work with nonprofit organizations and government agencies for up to 200 hours at up to 20 hours per week. Participants are paid by UCLA School of Law - therefore negating any employer concerns regarding unpaid interns - and  have a unique opportunity to further build their resume and to enhance their legal skills while awaiting bar results. Although participating employers are not required to permanently hire these graduates, many host employers have offered our graduates long-term employment at the conclusion of the program.

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