Harvard Law School launches new Public Service Initiative

Yesterday Harvard Law School announced a new program that will waive the third year of tuition for law students who commit to public service after graduation. The plan is in addition to Harvard's Loan Repayment Assistance Program. Harvard Law School launches new Public Service Initiative, HLS News, March 18, 2008.

Students interested in participating in the initiative must demonstrate a commitment to public service during their time in law school. Students will earn eligibility “credits” by engaging in public service activities such as summer internships and relevant clinical programs. Students who pledge to work for five years in a qualifying public service job will receive a grant totaling the cost of their tuition for the third year.

Starting with the class of 2011, this will mean a $40,000+ grant for eligible students. (Next year's tuition is $41,500.) Students in the classes of 2009 and 2010 will be eligible for $5,000 and $10,000 tuition grants.

Press coverage: Harvard Law, Hoping Students Will Consider Public Service, Offers Tuition Break, N.Y. Times, March 18, 2008; At Harvard Law, a Financial Incentive for Public Service, Wash. Post, March 19, 2008. See also comments at the Volokh Conspiracy.