Program Overview

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Introduction to the IDEAL Program

The Increasing Diversity in Education and the Law (IDEAL) program at Fordham Law School is designed to build a more inclusive and diverse legal profession. The program aims to provide students from underrepresented backgrounds with the tools, mentorship, and knowledge necessary to excel in law school and the legal profession.

Program Structure

The IDEAL program is a two-summer initiative, comprising Summer I and Summer II.

• Summer I is a 10-week program that introduces students to the study and practice of law, including enrollment in Fordham Law's Pre-Law Institute.
• Summer II is a 10-week program that focuses on LSAT preparation and law school admissions support.

Eligibility

To be eligible for the IDEAL program, students must meet the following criteria:

• Summer I: Applications are accepted from undergraduate sophomores enrolled in a full-time program at an accredited four-year college or university. Applicants must not have more than 90 credits as of June 1, 2025, and must demonstrate an interest in law or a strong interest in applying to law school upon graduation.
• Summer II: Applications are accepted from undergraduate juniors enrolled in a full-time program at an accredited four-year college or university. Summer II applicants must not have more than 105 credits as of June 1, 2025, and must have a minimum 3.5 GPA.

Program Details

The IDEAL program includes:

• Enrollment in Fordham Law's Pre-Law Institute
• Virtual and in-person visits to law firms and the district attorney's office
• Professional development and community building events
• Opportunities to network with the Fordham Law community and practicing attorneys
• LSAT preparation and law school admissions support
• Judicial internships
• Workshops on the law school admissions process

Program Commitment

Admitted students must be fully committed to the IDEAL program's schedule and requirements during each summer. Participation in other work, internships, programs, or similar commitments is strictly prohibited during the summer sessions.

Cost and Funding

The IDEAL program is free for all participants, including selected meals and activities throughout the summer. Additionally, each participant will receive a modest monetary stipend. Housing is not provided, and candidates must plan for their own living arrangements.

Application Process

The application process for the IDEAL program includes:

• Submission of an initial application for Summer I
• A separate application for Summer II
• Reapplication for currently admitted IDEAL students who wish to participate in Summer II

Frequently Asked Questions

• What is the program commitment? Admitted students must be fully committed to the IDEAL program's schedule and requirements during each summer.
• What does it cost to participate in the program? The program is free for all participants, including selected meals and activities throughout the summer.
• Does the IDEAL program cover summer transportation costs? The IDEAL program does not cover transportation costs for participants traveling to and from the law school campus.
• What are the dates of the Summer I - Prep Program? The prep program begins early July and ends early August.
• Where will classes take place? The IDEAL program operates in a hybrid format, incorporating both virtual and in-person components.
• Does the program cover housing and meal expenses? The IDEAL program does not provide housing or cover housing expenses for participants. Occasionally, meals will be provided during specific program events and activities.
• Are IDEAL participants automatically admitted into Fordham Law School? Participation in the IDEAL program does not guarantee admission to Fordham Law School.
• Will all students who apply to the program be accepted? No, the number of students accepted to the IDEAL program will depend on the capacity of the program administrators, which will vary from year to year.