The scholarship is aimed at students entering their second year of law school in Fall 2026 and is part of the foundation’s broader effort to support academic excellence and leadership development within Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) legal communities.
Scholarship Designed to Support Future Legal Leaders
The SAIL Scholarship is awarded to one outstanding law student who demonstrates a combination of academic achievement, leadership ability, and commitment to community service.
According to the NAPABA Law Foundation, applicants will be assessed based on several key criteria, including:
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- Academic excellence during undergraduate studies and first year of law school
- Demonstrated leadership experience
- Volunteerism or public interest service
- Understanding of social and cultural issues affecting AAPI communities
- Commitment to making a long-term community impact
- A strong “pay it forward” philosophy
The foundation emphasises that the scholarship seeks individuals who are not only academically strong but also actively engaged in public service and community leadership.
Financial Support Awarded Over Two Years
Key financial details include:
- Total Award Amount: $7,500
- Disbursement Structure: Paid in two equal installments
- First Payment: August of the student’s second year of law school
- Second Payment: August of the third year of law school
Continuation of funding is subject to the recipient maintaining strong academic performance, good character, and continued commitment to scholarship values.
Eligibility Requirements for Applicants
The scholarship is specifically designed for current first-year law students who will be entering their second year in Fall 2026.
Eligible applicants must demonstrate:
- Enrollment in an accredited law school
- Strong academic record in undergraduate and first-year law studies
- Leadership experience in academic or community settings
- Active participation in volunteer or public interest work
- Engagement with AAPI cultural or social issues, or a demonstrated commitment to such issues
- A clear intention to contribute to public service or community advancement
The NAPABA Law Foundation encourages applicants to review the official Frequently Asked Questions before applying to fully understand eligibility expectations and evaluation criteria.
Focus on Leadership and Community Impact
The scholarship programme places strong emphasis on developing future legal professionals who are committed to leadership and social responsibility.
Applicants are expected to demonstrate:
- Commitment to advancing justice and equity
- Engagement with underserved communities
- Leadership in academic, professional, or volunteer contexts
- Dedication to long-term impact in the legal profession
The foundation stated that the programme is designed to cultivate lawyers who will contribute meaningfully to both the legal field and broader society.
The SAIL Scholarship is made possible through the generosity of Sharon and Ivan Fong, whose contribution supports the foundation’s mission of empowering law students with financial and professional development opportunities.
The programme reflects a broader philanthropic effort to invest in future leaders within the legal profession, particularly those committed to public interest and community advancement.
Application Timeline and Deadline
The application process is currently open, with a strict submission deadline set for mid-2026.
