The Law Society of Northern Ireland is proud to announce the launch of its Bursary Scheme 2026.
The Scheme was introduced in 2023 as part of a legacy project to mark the Society’s Centenary year with the aim of broadening access to the profession by supporting Trainee Solicitors without the means to finance their place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS).
Following the success of the scheme, the Society has committed to funding the bursary again and is inviting applications for 2026.
Commenting on the launch of the bursary scheme the President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, Colin Mitchell said:
We believe the legal profession should be open to everyone with the ability and ambition to succeed. Our bursary scheme is about breaking down barriers and investing in the next generation of solicitors who will shape the future of law.
Two bursary places are available for the 2026 programme. The scheme is open to trainee solicitors in Northern Ireland who meet all of the following criteria:
- Hold a place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS)
- Have secured a training contract
- Commencing the trainee solicitor programme in September 2026
Commenting on the 2026 scheme the President of the Law Society, Mark Borland said:
“The Society is delighted to once again make available the Centenary Bursary which will support those wishing to train as a solicitor in Northern Ireland.
The success of the scheme to date is reflected in the first two recipients of the Centenary Bursary who have now successfully qualified as solicitors in 2025. Their achievement demonstrates the direct impact of the bursary in enabling talented individuals from less advantaged backgrounds to enter and complete their professional training, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse solicitor profession in Northern Ireland”.
Applications for the scheme can be made directly through the Law Society of Northern Ireland, using the official application forms issued for each scheme year and application packs are available on request from traineeinfo@lawsoc-ni.org
