Are you a dedicated law student striving for excellence in your legal studies but facing financial challenges? The Legal Practitioners Fidelity Fund (LPFF) is here to support you. The LPFF Bursary offers a lifeline to deserving students, ensuring that financial constraints do not hinder your academic journey.
Apply now and let us help you achieve your dreams of becoming a legal professional.
What is the LPFF Bursary?
The LPFF Bursary is a financial aid program designed to assist law students who demonstrate both academic excellence and financial need. This bursary aims to ease the burden of tuition fees, allowing students to focus on their studies and excel in their academic pursuits.
Requirements
To qualify for the LPFF Bursary, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Educational Requirements:
- A BA (Law), B Comm (Law), B Iuris, or B Proc degree.
- Proof of successful completion of the first two years of the revised 4-year LLB curriculum.
- Current students in the 1st semester of their second year (eligible for bursary for 3rd and 4th years).
- Current students in the 1st semester of their third year (eligible for bursary for the final year).
- Duration: The bursary can be awarded for a maximum period of two years at a South African University.
- Financial Need: Preference is given to applicants in serious financial need, though outstanding academic merit is also considered.
How Long is the Bursary Awarded For?
A bursary from the LPFF can be awarded for up to two years, covering the recipient’s tuition fees. The amount is determined by the Fund’s Board of Control based on the specific needs and circumstances of each applicant.
Commitment to Legal Education
The LPFF is deeply committed to the advancement of legal education in South Africa. Here are some ways the Fund supports the legal community:
Annual Funding and Support:
- Law Society of South Africa (LSSA): Funding for Legal Education and Development (L.E.A.D) programs.
- Black Lawyers Association (BLA): Financial support for the Legal Education Centre.
- Law Faculties and Law Clinics: Financial aid to South African universities.
LSSA and Practical Legal Training
Since 1990, thousands of law graduates have benefited from the Practical Legal Training (PLT) programs provided by the LSSA. These programs supplement academic training with practical skills, preparing graduates for the legal profession.
- Vocational Training: In 2012, the School for Legal Practice trained over 1,380 LLB graduates and 1,879 candidate attorneys.
- Distance-Based Training: Established in 2005 in cooperation with Unisa, providing flexible learning options.
- L.E.A.D Programs: Offering seminars, workshops, and diplomas to enhance legal skills and keep practitioners updated on legal developments.
BLA Legal Education Centre
The BLA-LEC is dedicated to improving the legal profession through capacity building and making legal studies accessible to aspiring Black legal practitioners. Their Continuing Legal Education program aims to promote an equitable social order and enhance human potential.
Law Faculties and Law Clinics
The LPFF provides crucial financial support to law faculties and clinics at South African universities. This support helps maintain high standards in legal education and ensures that future practitioners receive the best training possible.
Related: Average Salary for Candidate Attorneys in South Africa 2024
How to Apply
To apply for the LPFF Bursary, download the prescribed application form available at the top of the page. Remember, all applications must reach our offices by no later than 15 August 2024. You may post or hand-deliver your application, as faxed or e-mailed applications will not be accepted.
Download, read and complete the application forms:
Contact Details and Delivery Address
- Mr. Shawn Africa, Bursary Coordinator
- Address: 5th Floor Waalburg Building, 28 Wale Street, Cape Town, 8001
- Postal Address: P.O. Box 3062, Cape Town, 8000
- Tel: 021 424 4608
- Email: shawn@fidfund.co.za
The LPFF Bursary is more than just financial aid; it is an investment in your future and the future of South Africa’s legal profession. Don’t let financial challenges hold you back from achieving your dreams. Apply now and take the first step towards a successful legal career.
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