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Student Opportunity Funding

Enabling ASU Law JD students to serve, lead and grow through funded legal experiences

What is Student Opportunity Funding?

Student Opportunity Funding provides financial support for ASU Law JD students pursuing unpaid or low-paid legal experiences in public interest, government, policy and technology law. Whether in Arizona, across the country or in Washington, D.C., these programs help students build careers while serving the public good.

Together, these programs offer ASU Law JD students the opportunity to gain meaningful, career-shaping legal experience while minimizing financial obstacles. Whether you're advocating for clients, shaping policy or analyzing regulatory frameworks, Student Opportunity Funding helps you make an impact – now and for the future. JD students are eligible to receive up to a maximum of $5,000 from all funding opportunities combined during their time at ASU Law.

How to apply

Applications for funding are submitted through the portal. Each opportunity has its own timeline and process. Most require:

  • Proof of placement or acceptance
  • Resume
  • A brief statement of interest

Additional information and deadlines can be found within the application portal. Students are encouraged to begin their applications as early as possible once the application period opens, as funding is limited and awarded on a rolling basis.

Apply now

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Student Opportunity Funding programs

Frequently asked questions

Student Opportunity Awards are funded by Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law, as well as alumni and other donors who have specifically allocated gifts to support student experiential learning opportunities.

You must submit a Student Opportunity Funding application. Once submitted, it will be reviewed by the student opportunity funding committee.

If your application is approved, you will receive an official award acceptance letter by email.

To confirm your award and begin the disbursement process, you must:

  • Sign and return the award acceptance letter.
  • Complete a short registration process (you will receive information from the Business Office by email).

Funding is typically disbursed within 30 days of returning your signed award letter and completing the required registration. Timing may vary depending on when documentation is submitted.

Awards are money disbursed directly to you, not to your student account. Be sure to complete the registration process promptly to avoid delays. Choosing the electronic payment method can help you receive funds sooner.

To allow time for processing and review, please aim to apply at least 90 days before the start date of your experience unless the application instructions indicate a different timeframe.

By accepting Student Opportunity Funding, students agree to submit any (or all) of the following items, if asked by the law school:

  • A “Thank You” letter for your donor
  • A short reflection or summary of the experience
  • Photos or media (if available)
  • A small artifact or token from the experience (when applicable)

Yes. Awards that exceed tuition and fees are considered taxable income.

  • U.S. citizens/residents: You are responsible for reporting taxable income but can opt out of tax withholding.
  • Non-U.S. residents: Taxes will be withheld at the time of disbursement.

For general questions about your award or the disbursement process, contact [email protected].

Make an impact, start here

Student Opportunity Funding helps reduce financial barriers and opens the door to transformative experiences. Whether you're serving clients in underserved communities or shaping digital policy, we’re here to support your journey. Contact us for additional questions.