Public Interest Law Center

The Selection Process

Root-Tilden-Kern Scholars will be selected from among the group of students admitted for the Class of 2027. Each scholar selected receives a full-tuition grant (without regard to financial need). The grant is awarded for one year, but is renewed annually based on satisfactory academic performance and full participation in program activities and internships.

The program is committed to nurturing the development of outstanding public service leaders. Scholars are selected based on three criteria: commitment to public service, academic excellence, and potential for leadership. In assessing these criteria, the program looks at the whole person and considers previous life experience and professional work.

Preliminary screening of applications is done by current scholars and the directors of the program. Based on this screening, candidates will be invited to interview with a panel. Each interview panel is chaired by a federal judge, and consists of a faculty member, distinguished alumni, and current Root-Tilden-Kern Scholars. Based upon the recommendation of these panels, the program directors name the Root-Tilden-Kern Scholars. Scholarship offers are made shortly after the interviews.