Scholarship Amount: Over $9,000 in prizes
Application Deadline: January 30, 2026
Overview:
The Freedom From Religion Foundation (FFRF) is hosting its 2026 First Amendment Scholars – Law Student Essay Competition to encourage critical analysis and scholarship on constitutional law and religious freedom. This year’s topic invites law students to examine how the principle of “parental rights” has changed over time. Winners will receive cash prizes and a potential publication opportunity.
Eligibility Requirements:
- Must be currently enrolled in a North American law school
- Eligible if graduating from law school by spring or summer 2026
- Not eligible if beginning law school for the first time in fall 2026
- Past FFRF law student essay winners may not re-enter
Application Requirements:
- Original essay (maximum 1,500 words) on the assigned topic
- Completed application form as provided on the contest webpage
- Compliance with all contest rules listed by FFRF
Prize Information:
- 1st Place: $4,000
- 2nd Place: $3,000
- 3rd Place: $2,000
- Honorable Mentions: $500 each (at judges’ discretion)
For more information, visit the website at: https://ffrf.org/studentessay