Merit Scholarships for Entering J.D. Students
New UH Foundation Scholarship Process Instructions
Dean’s Scholarships are offered to highly qualified students in each entering first-year class. These scholarships vary in number and amount each year, and are renewable under the terms outlined below. As part of the Dean’s Scholarship program, we also offer at least two Dean’s Teach for America Scholarships. The terms and criteria for the Teach for America Scholarships are the same as those for the Dean’s Scholarship program, except that only current or former Teach for America corps members will be considered. Every applicant accepted for admission to the J.D. program is automatically considered for available merit scholarships, and no additional application is required.
Criteria for Entering Student Scholarships:
Every J.D. applicant accepted for admission is automatically considered for available merit scholarships, and no additional application is required. The following factors are considered when awarding merit scholarships:
- Applicant's academic record, including previous undergraduate and/or graduate institutions and test scores
- Applicant's letters of recommendation
- Applicant's demonstrated interest in obtaining an advanced degree as evidenced by the personal statement and other application materials
- Other relevant qualifications
Merit scholarships awarded to entering full-time J.D. students, including Dean’s Scholarships and Dean’s Teach for America Scholarships, are renewable for all three years of the J.D. program, provided the student maintains continuous full-time enrollment and is in good academic standing. For part-time students, scholarships are for all four years of the J.D. program, provided the student maintains a continuous part-time course load and is in good academic standing. If the student transfers from the part-time program to the full-time program, the scholarship will expire upon graduation from the JD program or at the conclusion of the fourth year, whichever comes first.
The scholarship is paid in two installments each year, one each for the fall and spring semesters. Each semester’s payment is contingent on your enrollment in a full course load at the University of Houston Law Center. As a full-time student, the scholarship will expire upon the completion of 90 attempted credits towards your JD, graduation from the JD program, or at the conclusion of the third year, whichever comes first. The scholarship will be applied to your university financial account directly. For more information regarding merit scholarships, please visit law.uh.edu/financialaid/scholarships.asp.
Dean's Award Ceremony
The Dean’s Awards Ceremony is held annually during the spring semester. During the ceremony, the Law Center recognizes faculty, staff, and student achievement in several areas. Scholarships are also awarded. Information on how to apply for available scholarships will be provided to students during the fall of each academic year.
Outside Scholarship Sources (JD & LLM)
All scholarship criteria and selection determinations are set by each individual donor (not the Law Center).
Applicants are encouraged to search for outside scholarships with individual organizations, sororities or fraternities, social clubs, religious or business organizations, employers of a parent, spouse or friend, foundations, town or city clubs, community organizations and civic groups such as the American Legion, YMCA, 4H Club, Elks, Kiwanis, Jaycees or girl & boy scouts. Any organization connected with your field of interest. Other options:
Entering Students Opportunities
MAX Pre-Law by AccessLex® Scholarship Program for aspiring lawyers who will be starting law school in fall 2026.
The Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (The CB) announces Sept. 1 for a new loan repayment program benefitting recently appointed peace officers who have student loan debt.
Fellowships/Internships
All scholarship criteria and selection determinations are set by each individual donor (not the Law Center).
Law Center Scholarships
Outside Scholarships (JD & LLM) - All scholarship criteria and selection determinations are set by each individual donor (not the Law Center).
- The Texas Criminal Defense Lawyers Educational Institute is offering a $6,000 scholarship for a 3L law student with a strong commitment to Criminal Law, especially Criminal Defense. Established in 2016, this award honors Charles D. “Charlie” Butts, a former TCDLA president and Hall of Fame member recognized for more than 63 years of service. The scholarship is presented annually at TCDLA’s Rusty Duncan Advanced Criminal Law Course in San Antonio each June. Eligible 3L students are encouraged to apply. The application deadline is Saturday, December 20, 2025.
- The Marine Corps Scholarship Foundation is now accepting applications for need-based scholarship to Military Children. Please visit the site to explore eligibility and requirements. Scholarship awards levels are $2,500, $5,000, $7,500, or $10,000 per academic year. Award amounts are based on factors including financial need, GPA, and available funding. Amounts are not guaranteed from year to year, and renewal applicants may be awarded different amounts in subsequent years.
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- Simeone & Miller, LLP is proud to support future leaders of law through the Good Lawyers / Good People scholarship. Simeone & Miller, LLP will award two $1000 scholarships annually. One each for the fall and spring semester to students who are passionate about using the law to improve lives. Applicants must be enrolled in a law school and submit either a written statement (800-1000 words) or a 3-5 minute video describing how they aspire to use law to make a difference. Fall deadline - apply. May 15 – June 30 award announcements July 31st. Spring deadline apply - September 15 – October 31 award announcements November 30th.
- The American Bar Association’s Forum on Communications Law invites law students with an interest in media, communication, and First Amendment law to apply for two distinguished scholarship opportunities at the Annual Conference and Media Advocacy Workshop on February 5-7, 2026, at The Wigwam resort in Phoenix, Arizona
ABA Forum on Communications Law Conference Scholarships
The Forum will award two full scholarships covering conference registration, travel, and lodging. Applicants should demonstrate a strong interest in media and/or First Amendment law through their academic record and experience, along with a commitment to advancing diversity, equity, and inclusion in the legal profession.
Media Advocacy Workshop Scholarships
Prior to the Annual Conference, the Forum will host the Media Advocacy Workshop, designed to help law students and early-career attorneys strengthen their oral advocacy skills, engage in pre-publication review exercises, and participate in professional development activities.
Selected students will receive $1,000–$1,500 scholarships to assist with travel and lodging costs, as well as complimentary registration for both the Workshop and the Annual Conference.
Full Conference Scholarship Application – Application deadline November 25, 2025
Media Advocacy Workshop Scholarship Application – deadline October 15, 2025
- Kreig LLC Houston probate attorney scholarship is now accepting applications for Spring 2026 awards. Scholarship mission will challenge law students to explore practical applications of artificial intelligence and blockchain technology in estate planning. We seek innovative solutions that can help families efficiently transfer assets while minimizing probate disputes and litigation. Must be a current 2L or 3L student enrolled in an accredited law school located in Texas. Requires a minimum GPA. Of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in lost Coursework. Award is $2500. The deadline for submissions must be no later than Monday, December 1, 2025.
- Wells Call Injury Lawyers are offering their 2025 Law School Scholarship Contest, created to support and encourage future legal professionals who are passionate about justice and positive change. They are asking students to write an essay of at least 500 words (and no more than 1000 words) answering their prompt. “If you were able to change one state or federal law, what law would it be and why? How would this law impact others in your community or society as a whole?” Open to students currently enrolled in a law school program as of Fall 2025. Award is $2500. The deadline for submissions must be no later than Tuesday, December 2, 2025.
- Association of International Energy Negotiators (AIEN) is now accepting submissions for the 2026 Student Writing Competition. Since 2001, this annual competition has recognized outstanding student essays on topics related to international energy negotiations. This scholarship is open to full-time students in an accredited law university during Fall 2025 or Spring 2026. Essay requirements can be found here. Submissions must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec 17, 2025.
- The Nix Patterson Legal Scholarship Awardoffers $5,000 to a law student who demonstrates outstanding academic achievement and a strong commitment to community service. Any student enrolled in an accredited law school is eligible to apply. Two legal scholarships are awarded annually, in July and December. For full eligibility details and application information click here. The deadline for submissions must be no later than Wednesday, December 31, 2025.
- The State Bar of Texas Military and Veterans Law Section is awarding up to 2 $2500 Scholarships in honor of America's 250th Birthday in 2026. Students must be attending an accredited Texas Law School, who either has served in the Armed Forces with a favorable characterization of service, or is currently serving on active duty, or in the National Guard or Reserve. Nominee must have completed 12 hours of law school course work and attach a copy of their transcript and DD214, if relevant. Application here. Deadline Monday, Jan 5, 2026.
- The Aggie Law scholarship TABA is excited as they have awarded over 100 scholarships. TABA looks forward to furthering this mission this year. Applications will open on December 15, 2025, offering students an opportunity to receive financial support for their legal education. Interested applicants can access and submit the application at the TABA site. Applications will close on January 12, 2026, with winners announced on February 16, 2026. We encourage all eligible students to apply and take advantage of this valuable opportunity
- The Flo Forward 3L Scholarship supports law students in their final year of law school as they prepare to transition from the classroom to practice. This scholarship is open to current 3Ls, at an ABA accredited law school, the scholarship is designed to ease financial stress and help students focus on finishing law school strong, preparing for the bar exam, and taking the next step in their careers. There is an opportunity to earn one of two $2,500 scholarships. All entries must be submitted on or before January 15, 2026.
- The American Constitution Society invites law students to participate in the 19th annual Richard D Cudahy Writing Competition on Regulatory and Administrative Law. This competition honors Judge Richard D Cudahy’s Legacy of fairness, intellectual rigor, and public=minded scholarship by recognizing outstanding writing in these fields. The top paper in each category will receive a $1.500 cash prize and special recognition on the ACS website and other platforms. Competition details can be found here. Submissions are due by Monday, February 2. 2026.
- The 2026 BSP Law Charitable Foundation Joel Stern Scholarshipis now open for applications. This scholarship recognizes law students who demonstrate strong advocacy, writing, or litigation skills, along with a clear commitment to leadership and community service. Eligible applicants must be in good academic standing at an accredited law school and submit three short essays as outlined in the application form. The scholarship aims to support students dedicated to strengthening the legal profession and giving back to others. For full eligibility details and application information click here. Deadline 11:59 PM ET on Friday, February 13, 2026.
- The American Indian Law Review is now accepting applications for the 2025-2026 Writing Competition, open to students enrolled in JD students in an accredited law school in the U.S. The first-place winner will receive $1,500 and publication in the American Indian Law Review, plus an eBook copy of Cohen’s Handbook of Federal Indian Law provided by LexisNexis. Papers may address any legal issue specifically concerning American Indians or other Indigenous peoples. Submissions must be submitted by Friday, Feb 27, 2026.
- The Environmental and Natural Resources Law Section (ENRLS)of the State Bar of Texasis now accepting applications for its 2026 2L/3L Scholarship for students pursuing a career in environmental and natural resources law. This $3,000 scholarship is awarded each spring to one 2L or 3L student at every Texas law school who has demonstrated a strong interest in the environmental law field. Applicants will be evaluated on financial need, essay responses, faculty input, and supporting materials such as a resume, transcript, and letters of recommendation. Scholarship recipients will also be profiled on the ENRLS website. For full eligibility details and application information click here. Deadline for submissions must be no later than Saturday, February 28, 2026
- Houston Bar Association Auxiliaryis offering their annual scholarship(s) to deserving students at each of the Houston area law schools. The selection is based on scholastic achievement, need, and community involvement. Applications are open to any 2L student attending a Houston area law school who are Texas residents. The number of scholarships awarded will be determined annually. Award is $5000. Please review submission requirements here. The deadline for submissions must be no later than Thursday, April 10, 2026.
- Andrew Flusche Attorney at Law are excited to announce they are accepting applications to award students with $1000 to put towards their education with “The Andrew Flusche Law School Scholarship Contest.” The deadline for submissions on or before Monday, July 30, 2026.
Writing Competitions
All award criteria and selection determinations are set by each individual donor (not the Law Center).
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NRA Civil Rights Defense Fund 2026 Law Student Writing Competition
Law students enrolled in an ABA-accredited school are invited to submit a scholarly article on a cutting-edge Second Amendment issue. Prizes: 1st – $10,000, 2nd – $7,000, 3rd – $3,000. The link to apply can be found here. Submissions must be in PDF format and emailed by Sunday, March 1, 2026.
- American College of Consumer Financial Services Lawyers is pleased to announce its 2026 annual writing competition to recognize significant written contributions to the field of U.S. consumer financial services law in Books, publishable articles, book chapters, or substantial book reviews by a professional in the field, and publishable student case notes, articles, or comments. The awards include cash payments of $5000, $3500, and $1500 respectively for the above categories. The link to apply can be found here. Submissions must be submitted by Saturday, Nov 1, 2026.
- State Bar of Texas Computer & Technology Section invites law students and resent graduates to submit original written work for our annual Student Writing Competition. Relevant articles that explore technology, law, policy, or compliance issues. Submissions should offer a clear legal analysis, practical insights and engaging writing. Eligibility is open to law students in good standing, LLM students, and recent graduates within six months. Work must be your original writing. Prior presentation is allowed. The link to apply can be found here. Submissions must be submitted by Wednesday, Dec 31, 2025.
- Law School Student Writing Award. ACREL is the preeminent association of commercial real estate lawyers, focused on service to clients, colleagues and the profession. We have established the writing award to recognize and encourage thoughtful student scholarship and excellent writing in the area of real property law or related topics. Additional information about the award is contained here. Two winners (a First Place and a Second Place) will be selected and notified by February 17, 2026. The First-Place winner will receive an award of $2,000. The Second Place Winner will receive an award of $1,000. Deadline: 11:59 p.m. Eastern time on December 31, 2025
- The Andrew Flusche Law School Scholarship Contest is now open for applications, offering a $1,000 award to support a current law student’s educational journey. This scholarship invites applicants to submit a brief essay explaining why they chose to pursue law and how they hope to create meaningful impact within their communities. A letter of recommendation from a trusted reference is also required for consideration. Eligible students must be enrolled at an accredited law school in the United States. Deadline Thursday, July 30, 2026.
University of Houston Law Center
Financial Aid & Scholarship Office
4170 Martin Luther King Blvd
Houston, TX 77204-6060
(713) 743-2269
School code 003652
lawfinaid@uh.edu
