Robert A. McNew Law Student Scholarship
Scholarship Sponsored by Federal Bar Association
Overview
The Foundation of the Federal Bar Association funds scholarships that promote federal law practice and support students pursuing legal education. The Robert A. McNew Law Student Scholarship is one of these awards and is intended to encourage interest in federal practice among law students. The scholarship supports the development of future attorneys and judges by recognizing academic achievement and professional commitment. Applicants are evaluated on a combination of professional character, community involvement, and participation in Federal Bar Association activities.
Description: The Robert A. McNew Law Student Scholarship annually provides at least one award to a law student who is an FBA student associate member or demonstrates a clear interest in federal practice.
- Supports students entering federal practice
- Recognizes academic achievement and professional character
- Administered by the Foundation of the Federal Bar Association
Eligibility & Application
Eligible applicants are law students enrolled at accredited law schools who are FBA student associate members or otherwise demonstrate an interest in federal practice. Applicants must exhibit professionalism and high character in both personal and professional spheres. The application requires specific supporting materials that document academic performance, qualifications, and recommendations. Letters of recommendation may be submitted directly by recommenders if needed.
Eligibility: Law students enrolled at an accredited law school who are FBA student associate members or show an interest in federal practice; applicants must demonstrate professionalism and high character through submitted materials.
- Online application
- Personal essay
- Unaltered academic transcript (official or student copy)
- Two letters of recommendation (may include professors)
Submission: Letters of recommendation may be uploaded with the online application or sent by the recommender to foundation@fedbar.org (include the applicant’s name and “McNew Scholarship” in the subject line).
- Application documents demonstrate qualifications and character
- Recommendations may be submitted by recommenders via email
- Applicants should confirm membership or interest in federal practice
Award Details
The scholarship is awarded annually and recognizes students who combine academic success with service and engagement. Selection emphasizes participation in the Federal Bar Association, law school and community activities, and overall academic achievement. Awards are intended to support recipients’ legal education and foster continued interest in federal practice. Detailed award and selection policies are managed by the Foundation.
Award Value: The Foundation awards at least one scholarship of $5,000 annually.
Selection Criteria: Recipients are selected based on FBA participation, law school and community activities, and academic achievement.
- Minimum award amount: $5,000
- At least one scholarship is granted each year
- Selection balances academic record and professional/community engagement
History
The scholarship honors Robert A. McNew for his long-standing leadership and support of the Federal Bar Association and its Foundation. Mr. McNew served as a past president of the Foundation and as president of the FBA; he founded the Fellows program and remained actively involved for more than 30 years. The award commemorates his commitment to fostering the next generation of federal practitioners and leaders. His support of the Foundation continued through his retirement until his passing in 2023.
History of the Award: Named for Robert A. McNew, the scholarship recognizes his role as a longtime FBA leader, founder of the Fellows program, and past president of both the Foundation and the FBA.
- Named in honor of Robert A. McNew
- Recognizes a legacy of leadership and support for the FBA
- Reflects a multi-decade commitment to the federal legal community