Barer Institute for Leadership in Law & Global Development Applying for a Barer Institute Fellowship

The Barer Institute focuses on the multidisciplinary role of law in promoting improved outcomes in governance and multi-dimensional development. The goal of the Institute is to utilize lawyers as leaders in providing solutions to pressing development challenges in low and lower-middle income countries.

The 2025–26 application cycle is now closed. We will begin accepting applications for 2026–27 on Oct 1, 2025.

Candidate criteria include:

1. A personal statement (1-2 pages) addressing the demonstrated need in the candidate's home country for improved legal infrastructure in the areas of rule of law and governance, human rights and/or economic development and the candidate’s commitment to and capacity for using the knowledge gained as a Barer Institute Fellow to address that need.
2. A first degree in law or equivalent.
3. A commitment to return to the home country or region for at least three years after completing the Barer Fellowship.
4. Strong English skills. Candidates must meet the English Proficiency Requirements explained in UW Graduate School Policy 3.2.
5. Evidence of leadership skills.
6. At least two letters of recommendation from legal professionals in the home country.
7. Official transcripts and degree statements.
8. Résumé or CV.

Finalists will be required to participate in an interview via telephone or Zoom.

Please email application materials, and any questions you may have, to barerifl@uw.edu.

Applicants to the Barer Institute Fellowship program need not apply directly for admission to the Sustainable International Development LLM Program. However, applicants who would like to be considered for admission to the SID LLM program and the possibility of a full or partial tuition scholarship support (without full fellowship support) may also apply for admission to the Sustainable International Development LLM program.