GDL

For students intending to start the GDL in 2027. The details on the eligibility of part-time students can be found in further details on this webpage.

Please note:

• Lincoln’s Inn does not interview all applicants. Candidates will be shortlisted and those who are offered an interview will be notified by early-mid June.
• GDL interviews will take place in London. It is possible to be interviewed remotely if necessary, you can download our remote interviewing policy on this page.

The application opening and closing dates, along with the timeline can be found below. Please note, these dates are subject to change at the Inn’s discretion.

To be eligible to apply for a GDL scholarship, you must meet the following criteria:

• The next round of applications is for anybody intending to start the GDL in 2027.
• Applicants can only apply to one Inn of Court for a scholarship.
• Scholarships are only awarded to those who intend to practise at the Bar of England and Wales
• Part-time students may apply for a scholarship in either year of their course. If a part-time student applies in their first year and is offered a scholarship, that scholarship will cover the full course. They will not be eligible to apply for a further scholarship in their second year.

To apply, candidates will need to make an account on the Inn’s portal if you do not already have one. The link to the portal can be found here.

Candidates will need to submit two references with their application, one of which must be an academic reference (unless you graduated from your most recent course over 5 years ago). Guidance notes for referees can be found here.

Lincoln’s Inn does not interview all applicants. Candidates will be shortlisted and those who are offered an interview will be notified in June.

Interviews take place in July. Interviews are held in London . In some instances it is possible to be interviewed remotely if necessary, you can download our remote interviewing policy on this page.

All GDL Scholarships are awarded on merit. Applicants will need to satisfy the following criteria (introduced from 2024) in order to receive a scholarship:

1. Academic / intellectual attainment

The level of intellect/intellectual attainment as evidenced by the candidate’s academic results (including a realistic assessment of degree level in the case of candidates still studying for one).

2. Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving

Demonstrates analytical thinking, judgment, perceptiveness and problem solving.

• Uses an analytical approach to answering questions and problem solving
• Shows ability to assimilate information in a systematic way
• Identifies key issues, understands them and addresses them well
• Pays attention to detail
• Demonstrates good, well-reasoned judgement
• Able to think on their feet

3. Motivation 

The degree of motivation for a career at the Bar of England & Wales evidenced by the candidate’s investigation of the profession and development of associated skills and experience, leading to a realistic ambition towards practice at the Bar and any identified intended areas of practice.

• Has taken steps to understand the profession and learn about a career at the Bar
• Motivation for becoming a barrister is well thought through and apparent
• Has a realistic understanding of the profession (both positive and negative realities)
• Demonstrates passion for the Bar and/or has researched a particular practice area

4. Working With Others

Demonstrates the ability to work effectively with other people, adapting their style where needed and listening to the needs of others.

• Works effectively as part of a team
• Adapts their style to the needs of the audience
• Listens attentively

5. Advocacy

Oral and written persuasiveness including reaction to an audience.

• Persuasive oral and written advocacy skills
• Communicates orally and in writing in a clear and coherent manner
• Provides structured and well thought out answers to questions or points in oral presentation
• Maintains composure when challenged
• Able to respond and react appropriately to the audience

6. Drive, Determination, and Resilience

Demonstrates drive, determination, and resilience to keep focused and ensure that goals are met.

• Demonstrates drive and determination to succeed
• Provides evidence of working effectively when under pressure to meet goals or remaining calm in the face of adversity
• Provides evidence of resilience when things do not go to plan or when faced with challenge/opposition/obstacles

Please note that candidates are not permitted to use Generative AI programmes, including Large Language Model (LLM) Programmes like ChatGPT for anything other than for checking spelling, punctuation or grammar. Candidates are not permitted to use AI software to write, rewrite, rephrase and/or paraphrase any part of any answer on the application form. Candidates will be asked to confirm this before submitting their application.

Our recent scholarship statistics are as follows: