"Talent exists in every community, but opportunity does not."
Mark Borland, President, Law Society of Northern Ireland
The Law Society of Northern Ireland is committed to ensuring that talent and ambition, not financial circumstances determine who can enter the solicitor profession.
Established in 2023 as part of the Society's centenary legacy, the Centenary Bursary Scheme supports aspiring trainee solicitors from less advantaged backgrounds by covering the cost of the Diploma in Professional Legal Studies.
Investing in the future of the profession
Launching the 2026 scheme, President of the Law Society of Northern Ireland, Mark Borland, said:
"The Centenary Bursary Scheme is about more than financial support.
It is about opportunity. It is about social mobility. And it is about ensuring that the solicitor profession is open to all, not just those who can afford it.
Because the reality is simple: talent exists in every community, but opportunity does not.
The future of our profession should be defined by talent, not by financial circumstances."
The Centenary Bursary Scheme has already demonstrated its impact, with the first recipients successfully qualifying as solicitors in 2025.
The Law Society believes that a strong and diverse profession benefits everyone and remains committed to ensuring that the next generation of solicitors reflects the communities it serves.
Two bursary places available for 2026
Applications are invited from aspiring trainee solicitors who meet all of the following criteria:
Eligibility Checklist
✓ Hold a place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS)
✓ Have secured a training contract or be actively seeking one; and
✓ Will commence the trainee solicitor programme in September 2026
✓ Demonstrate financial need and a commitment to entering the profession
Whether you have already secured a training contract or are continuing your search, we encourage eligible candidates from all backgrounds to explore the opportunities available through the scheme.
Apply Now
To request an application pack or obtain further information, please contact:
Key Dates for the Centenary Bursary Scheme 2026
28 April 2026
Applications Open
Application forms and guidance become available. To request an application pack, please contact:
21 July 2026
Applications Close
Completed applications must be submitted by 5.00pm.
28 July 2026
Shortlisting Outcome
All applicants will be advised whether they have been shortlisted for interview.
Past recipients comments
It cannot be stressed enough the impact this scheme has had on my professional career, allowing me to focus and commit to my studies and relieving the financial pressure that can exist for Trainee Solicitors.
This scheme will always hold an important place in my legal career and I am very grateful to the Law Society. I am proud to be part of a scheme which encourages young people like me to reach their full potential regardless of their background.
Without this award, financial worries would have been a main concern for me. This Bursary Award has allowed me to dedicate more of my focus and energy into my solicitor traineeship.
This award really has made my year! I am so grateful to be given this opportunity as it really is something I didn’t think would ever happen to me.