Details about the fellowship are subject to change. Elements of the fellowship, including eligibility criteria, the application process, admissions considerations (such as GPA), LSAT preparation, and programming and accommodations during fellowship week, may be reviewed and revised annually. While we strive to provide the most accurate and up-to-date information, applicants should be aware that updates may occur. This FAQ section will be updated regularly to reflect any changes. We encourage you to review this site each application cycle for the latest information.
What are the application dates for the fellowship?
The application is open typically available from November 1 to mid-February each year, but we encourage you to apply earlier in the application window. Check the fellowship homepage for exact dates.
What are the parts that make up the application?
The parts that make a complete application are:
- The electronic application;
- your current resume;
- your unofficial college transcript(s);
two letters of recommendation.
I am no longer in college, and graduated years ago. Can I still apply?
Although the fellowship is primarily designed for those still in college, those who have already graduated can still apply.
Is there a GPA requirement?
No, but keep in mind that the fellowship is competitive and the GPA will be considered as part of the selection process.
Is there an interview process?
No, applicants are not interviewed as part the selection process. Your completed application is your opportunity to speak to the selection committee.
If I am not selected as a fellow, can I reapply?
Yes, we encourage applicants who were denied to reapply for the next cohort.
How many letters of recommendation do I need to submit?
You must submit two letters of recommendation, no more and no fewer.
Should my letters of recommendation be from my professors?
We encourage recommendations from professors, if you’re still in school. You may also submit recommendations from your academic adviser, as well. If you’ve been out of school for some time, an employer/supervisor recommendation is appropriate.
My recommender wants to directly submit my letter of recommendation, how do I do that?
The application provides instructions on how to submit the recommendation directly.
To whom should my recommenders address their letters?
While we strongly prefer to receive letters through the application or by email, your recommenders can address their letters of recommendation to:
Justice Michael L. Douglas PreLaw Fellowship
Attention: Selection Committee
4505 S. Maryland Pkwy., Box 451003
Las Vegas, NV 89154-1003
Is the writing prompt in the fellowship application similar to the law school admission personal statement?
Yes, the writing prompts are designed to mimic the law school admission application personal statement.
How long should my responses be for the essay prompts?
Use your best judgment in determining how long your responses should be for the essay prompts. Your responses should be a reasonable length in fully answering the prompts.
How long does my resume have to be?
Ideally, your resume should be no longer than one page.
Can I attach an addendum to my application?
Yes, you may attach an addendum to your application.
Who will review my application?
- Your application materials will be reviewed by a selection committee comprised of Nevada attorneys.
Is there a fee to participate in the fellowship?
- If you are selected as a fellow, there is no cost to you, except your transportation (such as a flight) to Las Vegas, if you are not already a local. If you are not a local, you will need to provide your own transportation to the UNLV dorms for check in and from the UNLV dorms upon checking out.
- During the fellowship week, there is no cost for your housing, food, and transportation. Again, you are responsible for your transportation to UNLV at the start of the fellowship week and your transportation from UNLV upon checking out at the end of the fellowship week.
How many fellows are there in each cohort?
- Usually 20 - 22 fellows comprise each cohort.
What’s the in-resident programming like?
- The programming is full time so expect to be in classes or sessions from the morning until and through the evening for the entire week.
Will we meet Justice Michael Douglas?
- Yes, Justice Douglas is an active participant in the fellowship.
What does the weeklong programming entail? Will we visit courts?
- The weeklong programming consists classroom work, LSAT preparation, networking and visits to courts and law firms.
What is the LSAT preparation?
- During the fellowship week, you'll receive about three hours of LSAT preparation. As well, fellows are strongly encouraged to take the the optional six-week intensive LSAT preparation that starts the week after the fellowship ends and meets twice per week for about three hours at the law school. Fellows who decide to participate in the six-week LSAT preparation will be required to submit a refundable deposit. Fellows will be refunded by no later than Aug. 31, so long as they complete the six-week preparation.
- Applicants selected for the fellowship will be given additional logistical details about the LSAT preparation, upon their admission to the fellowship.
Is there a fee to participate in the fellowship?
- If you are selected as a fellow, there is no cost to you, except your transportation (such as a flight) to Las Vegas, if you are not already a local. If you are not a local, you will need to provide your own transportation to the UNLV dorms for check in and from the UNLV dorms upon checking out.
- During the fellowship week, there is no cost for your housing, travel and food. Again, you are responsible for your transportation to UNLV at the start of the fellowship week and your transportation from UNLV upon checking out at the end of the fellowship week.
If I am selected, do I have to stay in the UNLV dorms?
- Yes, you are required to stay in the dorms.
I am a local and live in Las Vegas, do I still have to stay in the dorms?
- Yes, you are required to stay in the dorms.
I understand it’s a full-time in-residence for the week, do I have to stay in the dorms?
- Yes, you are required to stay in the dorms.