Beena Sondhi Scholarship

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 2026/27 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 2026/27 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 2026/27).
• 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.

Candidate assessment 

• The selection process will be based on a holistic assessment of academic merit, demonstrated commitment to human rights and criminal justice, financial need, and potential impact in the field.
• A dedicated committee will evaluate all applications, and shortlisted candidates may be invited for an interview as part of the final selection.
• The assessment of your application will be based on the information provided in your scholarship application and in your online application for admission. The panel will review details such as degree results, personal statement and other relevant information.
• Candidates must submit a complete application for their programme as soon as possible and then submit an application for this scholarship in order to be considered. Please note that complete applications for admissions can take up to 4 weeks to be considered by the department, although this duration can vary depending on the time of the year. You should be prepared to wait up to 6 weeks in busy periods.
• Candidates will need to have an unconditional offer for their programme by the time the Scholarship Panel meet.
• Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Notification of results

The scholarship shortlisting and awarding period is expected to be completed by the end of June at the earliest. Successful candidates will be contacted first, and once all awards have been allocated, unsuccessful candidates will be notified.