The Jay G. Cohen Memorial Student Opportunities Endowed Scholarship Fund provides support to undergraduate University of Maryland students who have a strong interest in pursuing a career as an attorney. This fund supports costs related to the preparation and application for law school. Funds may support costs for part (or all) of an LSAT preparation course and/or additional expenses incidental to the law school admissions process (e.g. application fees, transportation for visits, etc.) The monetary award for the is variable, typically ranging from $250 to $1,500.
Applicants must meet the following criteria to be considered:
- Exhibit exemplary academic standing, as evidenced by a GPA of 3.3 or higher.
- Have completed at least 75 credits at the University (including transfer and Advanced Placement credits)
- Exhibit demonstrated financial need, as evidenced by submission of Personal Statement of Financial Need.
- Intent to pursue law school after graduation
- Preference given to students with junior class standing.
The application is now open. Due date for applications is Friday, April 5, 2024 at 5 PM.
The following materials must be submitted to complete your scholarship application:
- Transcript (official or unofficial) – Student’s cumulative GPA from the University of Maryland will be considered
- Resume (1-2 pages)
- Short Bio (250 words or less) – Include year of study, major, other activities relevant to scholarship and professional activities
- Short Answer (250 words or less) – Briefly, describe your career goals and explain how receiving this aid supports your goals. Ultimately, list how you plan to directly use these funds. (i.e. LSAT prep, LSAT registration, law school application fees, etc.)
- Academic Reference – Name and email of one University of Maryland faculty or staff member who can speak on behalf of your academic performance and candidacy for a scholarship based on the qualifications set forth. (Note: you should request permission to list this person as your reference, but they will not need to submit a letter.)
- Statement of Financial Need – Brief personal statement regarding your financial need, if any, and how a scholarship would benefit you.
Questions regarding this scholarship or the application process should be directed to bsos-scholarships@umd.edu and Greg J. Shaffer, Esq., Associate Director, Pre-Law Advising, gshaffer@umd.edu.