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How to apply

Please note

Please note that this scheme is currently under review. All information on this page may be subject to change before the next round of applications open in 2027.

Eligibility and Placement Information

Who can apply:

Any member of the Inner Temple may apply for an Internship Award.

Sir Joseph Priestley Scholarships
  • Open only to barristers of fewer than 3 years’ Call.
  • Applicants who expect to be called shortly may apply in advance but cannot take up the award until after Call.
Project requirement
  • All awards are made for clearly defined projects.
  • Awards will lapse if the project is not completed within 12 months.
  • Preference will generally be given to projects with an international element and/or which involve an element of unpaid or low paid work for the community.
  • Projects usually last between 6 and 16 weeks.
  • Preference is normally given to applicants who have not previously received and taken up an award.

 

These are indicative guidelines; the selection panel has discretion over award amounts and duration.

Application Process

Key dates
Task/Event Dates
Application window Applications open in mid-March and close in mid-May
Reference deadline 1 week after the application submission deadline
Interview 3 June 2026
Results 12 June 2026 (expected)
Application Form

Applications must be submitted via the online application form which is linked on the Internship Awards homepage when the application window is open.

 

The application form is broken down into the following sections:

  • Placement details
  • your education
  • work experience (legal and non-legal)
  • supporting information (longer form questions)
  • contextual recruitment
  • financial circumstances

Candidates submit one application form and are considered for all Internship Awards at the same time.

References
  • After submitting your application, you will be sent a link to provide details of 2 referees (academic or professional). If you are still studying at undergraduate level, at least one should be academic.
  • Referees will then be contacted directly to upload their reference.
  • Referees must have known you for at least 6-months and cannot be family members.
  • References are due 1-week after the application deadline.
Interview
  • All applicants are expected to attend an online interview, held at Inner Temple, in June.
  • Interviews last no longer than 15-minutes
  • Questions will be about your placement and the scholarship criteria