Latinx Law Students Association Bar Support Fund

The Challenge: Elevating the Bar Pass Rate for Latinx Students at McGeorge

The Latinx Law Students Association (LLSA) stands as a cornerstone of support within McGeorge School of Law. We are one of the largest registered student organizations, consisting of numerous first-generation Latinx law students boldly paving their way through law school. Yet, this accomplishment comes with sacrifice and struggle. In 2023, McGeorge reported that only 60% of Latinx students successfully passed the bar exam on their first attempt. Comparatively, the 2023 ABA National Lawyer Population Survey reveals that only 6% of all lawyers identify as Hispanic. This small percentage who successfully pass the bar highlights the urgent need for action to support Latinx law students in overcoming systemic barriers to further diversity in the legal profession. 

One of the biggest challenges is the strain of financing bar preparation. During bar preparation students are highly recommended not to work, but this is not a viable option for a majority of Latinx students who must balance financial responsibilities. The stress of financial instability detracts from their focus and puts them at risk of not passing. Many students exhaust their loans to cover tuition and to survive throughout the year. Furthermore, unpaid internships, which are commonplace, leave students without extra income to save for bar preparation expenses. Within LLSA, some members are already grappling with financial hardship, resorting to government assistance programs like food stamps. These challenges inevitably spill over into their academic pursuits, including bar exam preparation.

The Solution: LLSA's Bar Support Scholarship Fund

With your help, we aim to provide $1,000 scholarships to graduating LLSA members, allowing them to focus on their studies without financial worry. The bar exam journey comes with a hefty price tag of about $6,000, which includes $1,823 in Bar fees, up to $4,199 to enroll in Bar Exam preparatory courses and everyday household expenses such as rent, utilities and groceries. Your support isn't just about dollars—it's about fostering diversity and increasing the bar pass rate at McGeorge School of Law. Our goal is simple but ambitious.  This fund is more than financial aid, it’s a bridge to a more diverse legal profession, one where Latinx voices are heard, understood, and represented.

We're calling on you to partner with us in raising $4,000 by April 2024 to support our graduating students. Your contribution, no matter the size, will make a meaningful difference in their lives and in the legal community. Together, let's create a more inclusive future for aspiring Latinx lawyers.

Pacific Gives Early Participation

With Pacific Gives, the University's annual day of giving, just around the corner, we wanted to give our donors a way to participate early. All supporters of the LLSA campaign will be recognized as part of Pacific Gives so be sure to check back April 23-24 to see our progress!