Diversity Access Scheme
On this page:
Explore our frequently asked questions to find out more.
Through the DAS, we're able to support talented, aspiring solicitors to pursue their legal education and careers through:
- Legal Practice Course (LPC) or Solicitors Qualifying Examination (SQE) scholarships
- mentoring
- work experience
As part of the scheme, we offer you the chance to be matched with a professional mentor and to get work experience during your studies.
We’ll help find a placement in a practice area that interests you.
We'll also build formal soft skill support sessions into the DAS next year.
Find out how the Diversity Access Scheme has helped others
Read our report on applications for the 2023 DAS round of awards (PDF 727 KB)
Who can apply
The overarching purpose of the DAS is to support:
- aspiring solicitors from under-represented groups
- those who face significant challenges
- those from lower socio-economic backgrounds who lack the financial support and professional networks needed to pursue their legal education and career
For more information read the full eligibility criteria for 2025 (PDF 97 KB).
For more information about eligibility, check the FAQs.
You can also email diversityaccessscheme@lawsociety.org.uk.
How to apply
Applications to the 2025 Diversity Access Scheme will open on 5 February.
Explore the 2025 eligibility criteria (PDF 97 KB).
Read the 2024:
For any queries, email diversityaccessscheme@lawsociety.org.uk.
Our sponsors
The scheme benefits from the generous support of the A W Blackwell Bequest and the support of Kingsley Napley in offering the Brandusa Tataru-Marinescu Award for Diversity and Inclusion.
With thanks to the following organisations for their donations towards the Diversity Access Scheme 2024 awards:
- Ogier
- Page Group
- Rabobank
We are also supported by the following firms and in-house legal teams who generously offer work experience placements and internships for our Diversity Access Scheme awardees:
- Arm
- Bindmans
- Browne Jacobson
- Endava
- Cerberus Capital Management
- General Medical Council
- Gowling WLG
- Hickman and Rose
- Justice
- Kingsley Napley
- Leeds City Council
- Link City
- Sackers
- Santander
- The National Trust
- UBS
- University of the Arts, London
- Wedlake Bell
- Withers
- Zaiwalla & Co
Finally, we are deeply grateful to the family of Davina Ruprah for their generous donation to the Diversity Access Scheme in her memory.
Davina was a talented and dedicated law graduate with a bright future ahead. She worked as a paralegal while pursuing her legal practice course (LPC) and was passionate about supporting others in their legal journey.
Her family’s donation embodies her inspiring spirit and commitment to helping aspiring legal professionals achieve their dreams.