Future Advocates Law School Scholarship Program

Expanding Elder and Special Needs Law Capacity by Investing In Law Students

Purpose

The NAELA Future Advocates Scholarship Program is designed to increase law student exposure to elder and special needs law by financially supporting their enrollment in a qualifying academic course. The program fosters early interest in this vital and evolving practice area and helps build a more diverse and inclusive pipeline of future advocates committed to serving older adults and individuals with disabilities.

Scholarship Overview

Scholarships are available to JD students enrolled at ABA-accredited law schools who plan to take a qualifying course in elder law, disability law, or special needs planning as part of their academic program.

Award Details

Each scholarship recipient will receive:

  • $3,500 in tuition support for one qualifying 2–3 credit course.
  • A complimentary one-year NAELA student membership.
  • Access to networking opportunities through NAELA's student and emerging attorney initiatives.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must:

  • Be currently enrolled at an ABA-accredited law school (full-time or part-time).
  • Have completed at least one semester of law school.
  • Intend to enroll in a course focused on elder law, special needs law, or related topics in the upcoming academic year.
  • Not have previously received this scholarship.

Qualifying Courses

Eligible courses must:

  • Be offered for credit by a U.S. law school.
  • Focus on elder law, special needs law, guardianship/conservatorship, public benefits, or closely related area.
  • By taught by qualified faculty or offered through a recognized clinical program or externship.

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit an online application form including:

  • Personalized statement (500–750 words) addressing: interest in elder or special needs law; career goals; how the course supports their academic and professional development; statement of financial need or barriers to access
  • Unofficial Law School Transcript
  • Course Description or Syllabus
  • Resume or CV

Law School Scholarship Application Status

Applications for Fall 2026–Spring 2027 are now closed. Thank you to everyone who applied. Recipients will be notified after June 1, 2026.

Want to Support the Scholarship Program?

Donate Today

Questions?

Please contact us at [email protected].

Return to Foundation Scholarships page