Who is eligible?

Specific eligibility requirements vary from state to state, but generally there are only two points of eligibility; first is that you are either a 1L or 2L (or 3L night student), and that you fall under our definition of diversity: Students from underprivileged and disadvantaged backgrounds, including, for example, those from low income or minority communities.

Where will I be placed for my internship?

The type of placements we have for internships are not-for-profit organizations representing traditionally underserved groups, other not-for-profit environmental organizations, and local, state and federal governmental organizations.

Students can apply to one or two participating states for the upcoming summer, however the American Bar Association or the co-sponsoring organization selects the organization where the Fellow will be placed. We have placements in each state that have consistently participated in our Fellowship program, while some placement organizations are new. Please keep in mind when applying for a state that you may be required to move or get an apartment for the summer and you will need access to transportation so you can commute to your internship.

Who selects the Fellowship recipients and how?

The selection process depends on each state, however, most states have a coordinating bar association or organization that will review the applications and they will make a decision. California applicants are reviewed and selected by ABA Section of Environment, Energy, and Resources staff and committee members.

What is required to apply?

The specifics for each state and their requirements are found on each state Web site, so please reference the state Web sites for detailed information. In general, most states require an application to be filled out, law school transcripts, two letters of recommendation, your resume and a short essay describing your interest/reasons for wanting to participate.

What interviews are needed before I am selected for the Fellowship?

Some states conduct phone interviews, while others simply look at your application. In general, most states will contact applicants they are interested in for a short interview.

How is the stipend payment made?

The payment process varies greatly by state and the internship where the Fellow is placed. Grant money, Section money, organization donations are all factors in the type of paperwork and the speed at which you will receive your payments. Some Fellows will receive payments from both the ABA and an organization, while others will receive payments from their placement location. Most stipends are paid throughout the summer, over three or four checks.

Do I need to submit all of my application information all at once?

Yes. The only exception is receiving letters of recommendation soon after submitting your application (either in the mail or via email). It is preferred that you have everything compiled before sending your application to the address indicated on the state web page.

Do my transcripts need to be official or can they be unofficial?

Transcripts can be either official or unofficial. Many schools now allow you to print off transcripts online, and those documents will be adequate for your application.

When will I know if I have been accepted or denied?

There are a lot of variables as to when you know if you are a recipient. In general, you will find out within 4 weeks of submitting your application. Some states extend their deadlines, and you may end up waiting long than anticipated. You may want to check back frequently on the Web site to see if the application deadline has been changed. Once a decision has been made by the state, you will receive either a phone call or email from someone to let you know what your status is with the Fellowship.

Can I apply to a state even if I am not a permanent resident and/or don’t go to school there?

You can apply to any state, however preference will be given to those students who either are permanent residents, go to school or have a strong interest in the state they are applying to. Exceptions are made every year, so you can apply to any state if you would like.

If I already have another internship secured, can I still qualify for receiving a Fellowship?

If you have an internship already lined up for the summer please contact Julie M. Connell at (312) 988-5625 or e-mail at connellj@staff.abanet.org to discuss your specific situation.