The Beena Sondhi LLM Scholarship covers full tuition fees to study on the LLM in Human Rights, Conflict and Justice at SOAS, University of London. 

The scholarship is open to applicants who have completed their undergraduate studies in India and who have demonstrated strong academic performance and a commitment to human rights and criminal justice. It aims to support individuals who are not only academically outstanding but also deeply committed to using their legal education to bring meaningful change to marginalised communities through the practise of law. 

There is one Beena Sondhi Scholarship available for the 2025/26 academic year which will cover the cost of tuition fees in full.

Eligible programmes

• Full-time (1-year) LLM Human Rights, Conflict and Justice beginning in the 2025/26 academic year.
• Part-time and 2-year courses are not eligible.

Candidate criteria

• This scholarship is open to students who have completed their undergraduate studies in India.
• New admissions only (programmes starting in 2025/26).
• Applicants must hold a first-class or high second-class degree (or equivalent) in Law (LLB or equivalent). However, applicants with relevant professional experience in human rights, criminal law, or criminal justice may be considered even if their academic qualifications fall slightly below this standard.
• Applicants must demonstrate a clear interest and commitment to human rights and criminal law through academic, professional, or voluntary work.
• Preference may be given to candidates who can demonstrate financial need and lack access to other sources of funding.

The selection committee strongly encourages applications from individuals belonging to Scheduled Castes, Scheduled Tribes, religious minorities and other marginalised groups who have historically faced systemic barriers in accessing higher education and legal professions. The selection committee recognises the importance of diversity and inclusion in shaping the future of human rights law and criminal justice and is particularly interested in supporting scholars who seek to address injustices within these systems. 

While prior work experience in human rights organisations, legal aid, public interest litigation, or advocacy is not mandatory, it will be considered an asset in evaluating the applicant’s commitment to the field.