Break Through The Bar

For many aspiring barristers, the cost of training can feel like a major barrier. The Bar Course (BPC) or Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) often comes with a high price tag, and not everyone has the means to fund it alone. This is where the Inns of Court scholarships come in.

The four Inns of Court – Gray’s Inn, Lincoln’s Inn, Middle Temple, and Inner Temple – award millions of pounds each year in scholarships to make the Bar more accessible. These awards provide vital financial assistance and can also carry prestige and recognition within the profession.

So how do they work, and how do you apply?

When to Apply

You should apply for your scholarship in the year before you intend to study.

If you are in the final year of your degree and plan to take the Bar Course or the GDL in the following academic year, you need to be applying now. Applications typically open in the autumn, with deadlines in late October or early November depending on the Inn.

How to Apply

There are a few key rules to be aware of:

• You can only apply to one of the four Inns for a scholarship. You cannot apply to all four and see which one accepts you. Choosing your Inn is therefore an important first step.
• You do not have to already be a member of the Inn when applying. Membership itself is more of a formality, requiring a fee and proof that you meet the requirements, which can be completed later.
• All Inns require a written application form and an interview. While the broad process is the same, the style of interviews differs between the Inns – some place more weight on advocacy exercises, others on academic ability or judgment analysis.

Why It Matters

These scholarships are not just about the money, though that is a significant part. They also represent a vote of confidence in your potential at the Bar. Winning one can open doors, provide networking opportunities, and offer support during your training.

The application process is competitive, but preparing well and choosing the Inn whose style suits your strengths will give you the best chance of success.