If you’re a passionate and driven law student who believes in building a more inclusive legal profession, here’s a scholarship opportunity you don’t want to miss. The DRI Foundation Law Student Diversity Scholarship 2025-2026 is now open for applications—and it’s more than just a financial boost. It’s a statement of support for students who are contributing to the cause of diversity in the legal field.
What’s the Scholarship About?
Each year, DRI—the leading organization of defense attorneys and in-house counsel—offers its Law Student Diversity Scholarship to students who demonstrate academic excellence, a commitment to diversity, and service to both their communities and the profession.
This opportunity is open to rising second- and third-year law students (2025–2026 academic year), regardless of race or ethnicity. DRI is particularly interested in students whose background and experiences will enhance the diversity of the Civil Defense Bar.
DRI Scholarship Amounts
Here’s what’s on the table:
- One award of $10,000
- Two awards of $5,000 each
Scholarship recipients will be announced at the DRI Annual Meeting in Chicago in October 2025.
Who is Eligible?
To apply, you must:
- Be a full-time law student entering your 2L or 3L year in 2025–2026.
- Evening students qualify if they’ve completed at least one-third of required credits for graduation.
- Not be affiliated with the American Association for Justice (AAJ).
What Do You Need to Submit?
To be considered, your application must include:
- Completed Application Form – https://www.dri.org/foundation/diversity-scholarship
- Cover Letter – Describe your academic, personal, and professional accomplishments, and how they align with the values of this scholarship.
- Three Recommendations – One (01) each from:
- The dean or associate dean of your law school
- A law professor (current or former)
- A non-relative who knows you personally
- Essay (max 2,000 words) – Respond to the following prompt:
“How Employment Laws Have Shaped Diversity Efforts in the Legal Profession”
Examine how employment laws like Title VII or the Equal Protection Clause have influenced diversity initiatives in the legal field and explore what this means for the future.
Application Deadline
The last date to apply for the DRI Law Student Diversity Scholarship 2025-2026 is June 30, 2025.
