Law Soc diversity scholarship scheme opens

Applications have opened for the Law Society's Diversity Access Scheme, which helps exceptional students with their LPC fees.

The scheme is aimed at "talented students who would struggle to bear the financial burden [of the LPC] without external funding". It provides full and partial scholarships to cover LPC fees, and has already helped 140 students over the years. To be eligible, applicants must prove that they have overcome exceptional financial, social or educational obstacles to qualification. One previous awardee said of the award: "It is not just finance. It shows that the Law Society believes in me, and believes that people with autism can rise above the limits placed upon them by many people."

The scheme is sponsored by a number of firms and education providers, including Allen & Overy, BPP Law School, The College of Law, Eversheds, Hogan Lovells, Field Fisher Waterhouse, Irwin Mitchell, Reed Smith, Nottingham Law School, University of Plymouth, University of Westminster and Withers LLP.

Law Society President Lucy Scott-Moncrieff commented: "This is no mere charitable gesture - it's helping new talent getting a foot in the door. These bright, inspiring students have got all it takes to succeed in law - except for the financial means, professional contacts and opportunities. With help from this scheme, they can become assets to the profession."

Applications close at midday on 29 March 2013.