How to access 'life-changing' support for aspiring solicitors facing financial and other barriers

The Lawscot Foundation is now accepting applications for support which the charity says can be "life-changing" for aspiring lawyers who are facing barriers to study and practice.

The charity offers two tiers of support: one with an annual bursary payment and mentoring, networking and work experience opportunities, and the second providing mentoring and professional development opportunities.

Lawscot Foundation spokesperson Amber Shadle said: “Our scholarships offer students life-changing support to pursue a career in law. I would encourage any eligible student aiming for a legal career but facing barriers to apply.

“Every person who wants to study law, no matter their background, should have that opportunity yet our scholars have said attending university would have been impossible if it wasn’t for the support of the Foundation.

“Through our generous sponsors, we can also ensure our students have access to real-time insights into a career in law and consistent support throughout their degrees to ensure they can make the most of their abilities.

“You never know where your career might take you as a Lawscot Foundation scholar. Our fantastic students and alumni underline not only the success of our scholarships but why they are necessary to ensuring we have a profession that represents everyone it serves.

How to apply for Lawscot Foundation support

Lawscot Foundation scholars are awarded £2,750 per academic year, over the course of their LLB and for the Diploma (DPLP).

To be eligible to apply you must answer yes to all of the following:

• You have an offer to study law (known as the LLB) at one of the ten universities accredited by the Law Society of Scotland starting in 2025;
• Without financial support you would struggle to access and participate in higher education (university);
• You are currently studying at school or college, or have left school or college within the last two years (but not currently attending university);
• You are currently living in Scotland.

Applications must be submitted by Monday 30 June 12pm.

More information on the criteria and how to submit an application can be found on the Lawscot Foundation's website.