California Western School of Law Offers Loan Repayment Assistance for Alumni Serving in Public Interest Roles

California Western School of Law (CWSL) reaffirms its longstanding commitment to graduates pursuing careers in public interest law with the continued expansion of its Loan Repayment Assistance Program (LRAP), the Adrianne Baker Fellowship. The program helps reduce the financial burden of law school debt for alumni who devote their careers to legal aid, legal services, and nonprofit advocacy organizations. 

CWSL recognizes that high educational debt can deter talented graduates from accepting positions that serve vulnerable communities. The Adrianne Baker Fellowship directly addresses this challenge by providing annual loan‑repayment support to qualifying alumni. 

“As our graduates take on critical work protecting the rights of underrepresented individuals and communities, California Western remains committed to ensuring their successes,” said Jorge Garcia, Dean of Admissions and Financial Aid. “This program empowers our alumni to continue choosing purpose‑driven legal careers without being held back by their loan obligations.” 

2026 Program Highlights 
The Adrianne Baker Fellowship remains available to alumni who meet the following eligibility criteria: 

• Graduates may apply within 10 years of earning their J.D. 
• Applicants must be working full‑time for at least 12 consecutive months in a qualifying nonprofit legal aid, legal services, or nonprofit advocacy/policy organization tax‑exempt under §501(c)(3) or §501(c)(4). Government positions are not eligible. 
• Applicants must have a minimum of $50,000 in certified law school debt. 
• Award amounts vary annually based on the number of eligible applicants and available funding. 
• The 2026 application deadline is Sunday, May 31, 2026. Applicants selected for awards will be notified in June.

The LRAP Committee considers documented financial need, demonstrated commitment to public interest work, the number of applicants, and the sustainability of the program when determining award amounts. Previous recipients may reapply. 

Supporting Public Interest Lawyers for the Long Term 

CWSL’s LRAP is part of the institution’s broader effort to make legal education accessible while encouraging graduates to serve in roles that strengthen communities and advance justice. The program continues to provide meaningful financial relief for alumni whose careers reflect the school’s mission to defend the rights of the underrepresented.  

For complete 2026 application materials—including the program summary, application form, employment verification, and tax transcript request instructions—graduates may visit: 
www.cwsl.edu/admissions_and_aid/financial_aid/after_graduation.html