Opportunities for First- and Second-Year Law Students

Vinson & Elkins awards some of the brightest law students from top law schools in the U.S. with Diversity Fellowships each year. Each Fellow receives up to $50,000 and the opportunity to clerk in one of our U.S. offices the summer following their 1L or 2L year.

Since the program launched in 2008, V&E has awarded 160 Fellowships. More than 30 former Fellows currently practice law at V&E and some have gone on to work in GC roles at V&E clients.

Fellowship Eligibility Requirements

• V&E’s Diversity Fellowship application is open to all second-year law students and first-year law students, regardless of race/ethnicity, color, religion, citizenship, national origin, gender, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, marital status, military service, disability, or any other characteristic or condition protected by applicable law.
• Law students must attend and be in good standing at an American Bar Association accredited law school.
• They must also possess a strong undergraduate and law school record, excellent writing skills, and a demonstrated interest in working at Vinson & Elkins, joining V&E as a Summer Associate, and advancing the firm’s Diversity & Inclusion initiatives.

Application Requirements

• Completed online application
  • Within your application, you must indicate whether you want to apply for the Diversity Fellowship and upload your Diversity Statement.
• A brief statement (500 words or less) discussing your commitment to advancing diversity and inclusion, what life experiences you have had that demonstrate your ability to persevere, and how your unique experiences will contribute to our practice of law.

Timeline

The 2025 2L Diversity Fellowship application is now closed.

The 2025 1L Diversity Fellowship application is now open. Students are encouraged to submit applications at their earliest convenience, as applications are reviewed on a rolling basis. Click here to apply.