The ISF Public Interest Legal Fellowship will fund one year of legal work at a public interest, non-profit organization for a recent law school graduate. This fellowship will be a foundational launching point for new attorneys who are passionate about pursuing social justice through the law.  
 

Applicants must have secured a host organization and designed a project proposal with the host for this application. ISF will pay $70,000 to the host organization for the fellow's salary. If the host's salary for attorneys with the fellow's experience is higher than $70,000, the host must make up the difference so that the fellow is getting paid according to the host’s payment scale.

Eligibility  

1. An active member of the Muslim community,
2. Graduated from law school within the last three years,
3. A U.S. citizen, permanent resident of the United States, or a DACA recipient,
4. Have taken or plan to take the bar exam by July 2025,
5. Have not held a full-time, permanent public interest legal position (i.e., a job that required a J.D.) before applying for this fellowship, and
6. Have secured a host organization and developed a project proposal with the host.

Requirements

1. Letter of commitment from your host organization
2. Resume
3. Two letters of recommendation
4. Two 500-word essay Questions

Benefits 

• Salary of $70,000
• Professional leadership and law enrichment workshops throughout and after the program
• Networking opportunities
• Mentorship opportunities

Program Timeline

• February to May 18 - Accepting Applications
• Late May - Application Reviews
• Late May - Video Interviews
• Early June - Fellowship Awarded
• Fall 2025 - Fellowship starts
   

Application Deadline: May 18th

Since 2009, ISF has been providing scholarships, internships, fellowships, and film grants to students majoring in law, policy, film, and media with the goal of empowering American Muslims who are shaping public policy and influencing public opinion.

The goal of the fellowship is for participants to work in congressional offices and to become well-versed in the creation and implementation of policy. In addition, fellows will learn how to shape policies in a way that is inclusive and doesn't undermine the needs of any marginalized group.

The ideal candidate will demonstrate potential in impacting public policy and working for the government,  alignment with the ISF mission and vision, excellent communication, and leadership.


MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS TO QUALIFY FOR THE MUSLIM CONGRESSIONAL FELLOWSHIP:
 

• Must be a member of the Muslim community
• Graduated from an accredited university;
• U.S. Citizen, U.S. green card holder, or DACA recipient;
• Minimum of one year of professional experience in the field of policy. Three years experience preferred.
• Applicants should have a proven commitment to policy-making and public service.

This program offers a salary of $35,000 for the 9-month fellowship. For more information, visit our website.