Unlock your future in law at one of the most prestigious institutions in the world! The Harvard Law School (HLS) Fellowship for 2026-27 offers a unique opportunity for aspiring scholars and professionals to advance their careers with world-class resources, mentorship, and financial support. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for a successful application.
Basic Information About the Harvard Law School Fellowship
Harvard Law School offers several distinguished fellowships each year, such as the Reginald F. Lewis Fellowship, Environmental & Energy Law Program (EELP) Fellowship, and fellowships in Human Rights and other disciplines. These fellowships are primarily open to recent law graduates (JD, LLB, LLM, or equivalent), including international students.
- Application Deadlines: Most fellowships close applications in December 2025 or January 2026. The Lewis Fellowship, for example, closes on December 1, 2025, 11:59 p.m. (Eastern Time).
- Duration: Fellowships generally run for one academic year, with a possible extension in special cases.
- Location: Full-time, in-person at Harvard Law School in Cambridge, Massachusetts.
University/Institution Details
- Institution: Harvard Law School, Harvard University
- Location: Cambridge, Massachusetts, USA
- World Ranking: Consistently ranked as one of the top law schools globally
- Campus Environment: Dynamic, diverse, intellectually rigorous
Study Areas and Available Programs
Harvard Law School fellowships cover a variety of legal and interdisciplinary fields:
- Law Teaching and Scholarship (Reginald F. Lewis Fellowship)
- Environmental & Energy Law (EELP Fellowship)
- Human Rights Law
- Health Law Policy, Biotechnology, and Bioethics
- Empirical Legal Studies
- Global Law and Policy
- Business, Public Interest, and Social Justice
Each fellowship may focus on specific research interests or encourage independent scholarly work contributing to legal academia and practice.
Scholarship Benefits
The Harvard Law School Fellowship offers significant advantages, including:
- Annual Stipend: Up to $60,000 (varies by fellowship)
- Research Funding: Support for scholarly projects, travel, and conference attendance
- Mentorship: Access to faculty and leading experts in your selected field
- Networking: Join Harvard’s extensive legal and professional community
- Professional Development: Workshops, events, and publication opportunities
Benefits Not Included
While generous, the fellowship does not cover all possible expenses:
- Tuition Fees: Typically waived for fellows, but confirm for your specific fellowship
- Health Insurance: Generally included, but verify per program
- Visa Fees: Not reimbursed
- Personal/Family Expenses: Not covered beyond the stipend
- Housing: You are responsible for finding and paying for your accommodation
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible, you must usually:
- Have completed a law degree (JD, LLB, LLM, or equivalent) within the past few years
- Demonstrate academic excellence and research interest relevant to the fellowship
- Have strong letters of recommendation (at least two, sometimes three)
- For certain fellowships, you must submit a research proposal or project statement
- Harvard fellowships are open to candidates of all nationalities
Required Documents For the Application
Typical application packages include:
- Completed online application via Harvard’s portal (usually CARAT)
- Updated CV/resume
- Academic transcripts
- Research proposal (3-4 pages for most fellowships)
- Two to three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement or motivation letter
- Writing sample (for selected fellowships)
- Proof of English proficiency (for non-native speakers)
- Passport and valid visa information (for international applicants)
Scholarship Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
- Identify Fellowship: Choose the program that matches your academic interests and career goals.
- Check Deadlines: Mark your calendar for application deadlines (most in late 2025 to early 2026).
- Prepare Documents: Gather all required materials in PDF format.
- Register/Login: Create a HarvardKey (if not a Harvard affiliate) for the online application system.
- Fill the Application: Complete all sections of the online form.
- Submit Recommendations: Input recommender details and send automated recommendation requests via the system.
- Review and Submit: Double-check your application for completeness and accuracy before final submission.
- Track Status: Watch your email for updates and interviews (if required).
- Notification: Await selection results.
- Accept and Prepare: Once offered, confirm acceptance, organize your finances, and prepare for your arrival at Harvard.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Start Early: Begin preparations months in advance.
- Tailor Your Application: Customize your statement and proposal to the fellowship’s goals.
- Select Strong Recommenders: Choose people who know your work and can speak to your abilities.
- Proofread Carefully: Submit polished, error-free documents.
- Show Impact: Highlight how your work aligns with Harvard’s mission and how it will benefit the legal profession.
- Engage with Faculty: Reach out to potential mentors to discuss your interests.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to word counts, formats, and all application guidelines precisely.
Monthly Living Expenses for International Students (USD)
Living in Cambridge, MA, is costly. Here’s an estimated monthly breakdown:
| Expense Type | Monthly Estimate (USD) |
|---|---|
| Housing (off-campus or shared) | 1,500–2,000 |
| Food | 500–700 |
| Health Insurance | 350–450 |
| Personal Expenses | 450–600 |
| Transportation | 80–120 |
| Books/Supplies | 100–200 |
| Total | 2,980–4,070 |
Why Choose the Harvard Law School Fellowship? (Top 5 Reasons)
- World-Class Reputation: Stand out in your career by associating with Harvard Law, a global leader in legal education and research.
- Extraordinary Mentorship and Networking: Access to industry-leading experts and high-profile events.
- Generous Financial Support: Stipends and research funding ease financial burdens and allow focus on study and research.
- Unmatched Career Launchpad: Alumni go on to successful legal, academic, and public service careers world-wide.
- Cutting-Edge Research Opportunities: Work at the frontier of legal studies and contribute to world-changing scholarship.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Harvard Law School Fellowship
1. Can international students apply?
Yes, the fellowship is available to qualified applicants of all nationalities.
2. Do I need to be a Harvard graduate?
No. Many fellowships accept graduates from other leading institutions worldwide.
3. What academic background is required?
A recent law degree (JD, LLB, LLM, or equivalent) is generally necessary. Some fellowships may require specific areas of study or research.
4. Does the stipend cover all expenses?
The stipend is generous but may not cover all living expenses, relocation, or family costs.
5. Can I bring my family?
You may, but the fellowship does not provide family allowances. Plan carefully and budget for dependents.
6. Is English proficiency mandatory?
Yes, strong English language skills are required; proof may be needed for non-native speakers.
7. When is the application period for 2026-27?
Most deadlines are from December 2025 to January 2026, but applicants are advised to check for updates on specific fellowship pages.
Harvard Law School’s fellowships are stepping stones to achievement, global impact, and lifelong professional relationships. If you’re passionate about legal innovation and leadership, don’t miss this exceptional opportunity!
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