At Gray’s Inn, our scholarships aim to give exceptional candidates the support they need to pursue their ambition of becoming a barrister.
We know that undertaking a law conversion course is a major decision, and that’s why this year Gray’s Inn will launch a new GDL Double Scholarship. This scholarship will offer aspiring barristers undertaking their law conversion course sustained financial support through both the academic (GDL) and vocational (Bar Course) components of Bar training.
The initiative represents a significant expansion of some of our most prestigious awards – specifically the David Karmel, Dame Joyanne Bracewell & William Charnley Scholarships – which will now provide extended financial support.
Comprehensive financial support
Recipients of these scholarships will receive:
- A minimum award of £10,000, split across both stages of training
- £2,500 for the GDL
- £7,500 for the Bar Course
- Access to GDL and Bar Course financial assessments, which can increase the total value of support to up to £40,000
- Maximum awards of £15,000 for the GDL and £25,000 for the Bar Course, subject to assessment
- The opportunity to apply for a Residential Scholarship in advance of commencing Bar Course training
Reducing risk and widening access
By guaranteeing continued support beyond the GDL, the new double scholarship model has been designed to give our talented candidates the confidence and security to pursue a career at the Bar, financially supported through two stages of Bar training by a prestigious Inn scholarship.
“I am truly thrilled that Gray’s Inn is taking away some of the financial stresses and uncertainties on those choosing to pursue careers at the Bar, by introducing this innovative Double Scholarship award for the top GDL candidates.” Lucinda Orr, Chair of the Gray’s Inn Scholarships Committee
Applications open March 2026
Applications for GDL Scholarships will open on 13 March 2026.
We intend to award up to 35 GDL Scholarships in 2026, including up to 10 Double Scholarships.
Further details, including eligibility criteria and application guidance, are available on our GDL Scholarships page.