The Law Society of Northern Ireland have launched the 2026 Centenary Bursary Scheme for aspiring trainee solicitors at an event at Law Society House in the heart of the legal quarter.
The Centenary Bursary Scheme, which is now in its fourth year, covers the payment of fees for the one-year Diploma in Professional Legal Studies course at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS).
The scheme was introduced in 2023 as part of the Society’s centenary legacy. It is aimed at aspiring trainee solicitors who have the capability and commitment to enter the profession but lack the financial means to do so, particularly those from less advantaged backgrounds
Two bursary places are available for the 2026 programme. The scheme is open to trainee solicitors in Northern Ireland who meet all of the following criteria:
- Hold a place at the Institute of Professional Legal Studies (IPLS)
- Have secured a training contract
- Commencing the trainee solicitor programme in September 2026
Commenting on the 2026 scheme the President of the Law Society, Mark Borland said:
“The Society is delighted to once again make available the Centenary Bursary which will support those wishing to train as a solicitor in Northern Ireland.
The success of the scheme to date is reflected in the first two recipients of the Centenary Bursary who have now successfully qualified as solicitors in 2025. Their achievement demonstrates the direct impact of the bursary in enabling talented individuals from less advantaged backgrounds to enter and complete their professional training, contributing to a more inclusive and diverse solicitor profession in Northern Ireland”.
Applications for the scheme can be made directly through the Law Society of Northern Ireland, using the official application forms issued for each scheme year and application packs are available on request from traineeinfo@lawsoc-ni.org
