The Making Links Asia University Programme is designed specifically to help talented students from underrepresented groups succeed in their early careers by supporting them on the development of technical and professional skills whilst building strong commercial fluency and a global outlook. The programme is available across our Asia and Middle East network including Abu Dhabi, Bangkok, Beijing, Dubai, Hong Kong SAR, Jakarta, Riyadh, Seoul, Shanghai, Singapore, and Tokyo.
Successful applicants will receive:
personal 1:1 coaching for professional growth;
sessions on commercial awareness and personal skills development;
in-person work experience placement in a local Linklaters network office;
opportunities to connect with lawyers and students in the region;
exclusive access to Linklaters’ leading legal experts, as well as local office activities throughout the programme; and
financial support.
We are particularly keen to hear from you if you identify as coming from a low-income or a racial or ethnic minority background.
Swipe through the reflections of participants on their transformative journey
Aneesa Bibi and Cherry Chung
“Without ready access to the legal profession, this programme was the essential bridge, providing the guidance, support, and network I needed to confidently launch my career in Hong Kong.”
Eric Lin
"Thanks to the commercial insights and guidance provided through the Making Links programme, I feel more confident and better prepared to start my legal career."
Noor Tayyab
“Beyond the valuable professional exposure, what stood out most were the amazing people we met – always ready to guide, support, and make us feel like part of the team from day one.”
Sahapoom Sangvijit and Supharat Hathaichanok
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Making Links Scholarship
Our Making Links Scholarship is designed to help socially mobile students fulfil their potential and access a career in law. This unique opportunity provides students going into their second year with £6,000 in financial support, a week of work experience and one-to-one coaching.
The Scholarship takes place over six months with both in-person and virtual activity. You will receive:
£6,000 in financial support in three instalments throughout the duration of the Scholarship
A week of work experience in London with work shadowing, interactive workshops, mock interviews and socials
One-to-one coaching
A trainee mentor and dedicated Trainee Recruitment contact
Fast-track to an assessment centre for one of our Vacation Schemes
Please note, successful individuals must not have accepted a Training Contract offer or another professional scholarship elsewhere for the duration of the Making Links Scholarship.
Key Dates and Eligibility
Eligibility:
Currently in your first year of a three-year undergraduate degree or second year of a four-year programme at a UK or Irish university
From a socially mobile background, such as:
You’re the first in a generation to attend higher education
You’re a carer or have caring responsibilities
You were eligible for free school meals
You attended state school throughout your secondary education
You're a mature student
You identify as having a disability
You have refugee status or an uncertain immigration status
Open to law and non-law students
Application window:
Applications open 31 March 2025 and close 5 June 2025