How Does 1L Recruiting Work?
BigLaw Bear · December 1, 2025 · 3 min read
How 1L Recruiting Differs from 2L
The big difference: 1L recruiting is much smaller and less structured than OCI. There's no formal bidding system, no centralized interview week, and far fewer positions.
Most BigLaw firms hire the bulk of their summer class as 2Ls. But many also bring on a smaller cohort of 1Ls — often through diversity fellowships and targeted 1L programs.
Diversity Fellowships
The majority of 1L BigLaw positions are diversity fellowships. These programs are specifically designed to increase representation in the legal profession and are open to students from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
Firms like Cravath, Kirkland & Ellis, Sullivan & Cromwell, and many others run these programs. Applications typically open in December of your 1L year and close in January or February.
What they typically include:
- A paid summer associate position
- Mentorship from firm attorneys
- A scholarship or stipend in some cases
- The same work experience as 2L summers (real assignments, real feedback)
Non-Diversity 1L Positions
Some firms also hire 1Ls outside of diversity programs, though these spots are rare and highly competitive. They tend to go to students at T6 schools with exceptional first-semester grades.
A few firms run general 1L programs that are open to all students. Check each firm's website and your career services office for details.
The Timeline
October-November: Start researching which firms offer 1L programs. Use the firm directory to identify firms that interest you and check their websites for program details.
December-January: Applications open. You'll typically submit a resume, transcript (first-semester grades), cover letter, and sometimes a writing sample.
February-March: Interviews happen. These may be phone screens, Zoom interviews, or in-person visits.
March-April: Offers go out. Most firms want a decision within a few weeks.
How to Position Yourself
Grades matter. Your first-semester GPA is the primary credential for 1L recruiting. Strong grades open doors; below-median grades make it tough.
Your story matters too. Especially for diversity fellowships, firms want to understand your background, your path to law school, and what perspectives you bring. Be authentic and specific.
Show genuine interest. 1L classes are tiny — often just 5-15 students per firm. They're investing real resources in you. Research the firm thoroughly and articulate why you want to be there. Our firm profiles are a good starting point.
Apply broadly. Since the number of 1L positions is small, cast a wider net than you might for 2L recruiting. Apply to 15-20 programs if you're eligible.
If You Don't Get a 1L BigLaw Position
That's completely fine. The vast majority of successful BigLaw attorneys didn't do their 1L summer at a firm. A government position, judicial internship, or public interest role is excellent preparation for 2L OCI.
What matters most is that you have meaningful legal experience to discuss during your 2L interviews and that your 1L summer adds value to your resume.