In 1980, Emory University established the Robert W. Woodruff Scholars Program to recruit and reward students with exceptional character, scholastic abilities, and leadership qualities.
Each year, every college and division names incoming Woodruff Scholars and Fellows. It is the highest accolade an incoming student can receive.
At Emory Law, Woodruff Fellows receive a scholarship covering all tuition and mandatory fees for their three years of study toward a Juris Doctor. Those students with external scholarship funding or military benefits will receive the difference between their other benefits and full cost of tuition plus mandatory fees. In addition, Woodruffs receive a $5,000 stipend each academic year to assist with the cost of books and living expenses.
Specifically, the scholarship is awarded to students who have demonstrated:
- qualities of forceful and unselfish character,
- intellectual and personal vigor,
- outstanding academic achievement,
- impressive skills in communication,
- significant leadership and creativity in school or community,
- clear potential for enriching the lives of their contemporaries at Emory University, and
- a strong propensity to make a positive impact on the community as an Emory Law alumnus/alumna.
Becoming a Woodruff Fellow means joining a rich community of scholars who are leaders among the Emory Law community, the alumni association, and the greater society. It also means inclusion in special Woodruff-only events with law school and university leaders and prominent alumni. Our Woodruffs are leaders both while they are students and after they graduate and join the profession in courtrooms, businesses, government, public service, and academia. The Woodruff Fellow designation provides lasting recognition of achievement.
Selection Process
The selection process for the Woodruff Scholarship is rigorous. The selection committee, composed of faculty, staff, and Woodruff alumni, looks for outstanding achievement in academics, leadership, and out-of-school activities as well as the potential to make a significant impact on the Emory Law community.
All Juris Doctor applicants will be considered for the Woodruff Scholarship, and no separate application is necessary.