Scholars for Justice Award
Since 2006, the Scholars for Justice Award has supported Seattle University School of Law students committed to advancing justice through public service. More than a scholarship, it is a leadership opportunity grounded in community service, and a shared commitment to building a more just and inclusive legal system. Scholars receive full tuition support for all three years of law school, enabling them to pursue public interest careers without the burden of law school tuition.
A Community Rooted in Service and Impact
For over 25 years, the Access to Justice Institute (ATJI) has inspired and equipped law students to pursue public service, lead with integrity, and advance justice in every community they serve. Scholars for Justice are part of this legacy. Through ATJI, Scholars engage in meaningful pro bono work, explore public interest career pathways, and build relationships with advocates and organizations addressing critical legal needs. This experience reflects ATJI's core belief that every lawyer has a role to play in advancing equity and strengthening communities.
What Scholars Gain
Scholars for Justice is designed to support both your legal education and your long-term impact as a public interest leader.
As a Scholar, you will receive:
- A full-tuition scholarship for all three years of law school.
- Individualized mentorship and support through ATJI.
- Priority access to pro bono and public interest opportunities.
- Opportunities to engage with a statewide network of attorneys, alumni, and community partners.
- Leadership development grounded in service, collaboration, and community engagement.
A Commitment to Justice
Scholars for Justice are selected based on their demonstrated commitment to public interest and their potential to contribute meaningfully to the communities they will serve.
As a Scholar, you will be expected to:
- Engage in pro bono and community-based service throughout law school.
- Participate in ATJI programming.
- Represent ATJI within the law school and the broader legal community.
- Take the Pro Bono Pledge and complete at least 100 hours of legal pro bono and community volunteer work before graduation.
- Pursue a career that advances access to justice following graduation and complete a minimum of one year of public service work within three years of graduation.
- Graduate with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for students who are deeply committed to public service and who see the law as a tool for advancing equity and justice.
Strong candidates may have:
- Demonstrated involvement in public service, advocacy, or community work.
- A clear interest in pursuing a public interest or public service career after graduation.
- Lived experience or perspectives that inform a commitment to justice.
- A desire to be part of a collaborative, service-driven community.
