Frequently Asked Questions
What are the time requirements of the Externship Program?
During the fall and spring semesters, students must perform and document at least 10 hours of fieldwork per week for a minimum of 13 weeks during the semester.
During the summer semester, students must perform and document at least 20 hours of fieldwork per week for a minimum of 8 weeks during the semester.
How can I apply for the Externship Program?
You are expected to secure externship fieldwork placements on your own. All students must complete the online application for externship course registration and e-mail your resume and unofficial transcript to externship@law.fordham.edu.
Can I apply if I have not yet secured a Field Placement?
While it is best to secure a position before you apply to the Program, we understand that some employers do not make offers before our deadline. If you are still waiting to hear from prospective placements, please fill apply, but indicate that you are still waiting for placement confirmation.
What if I'm interested in working at the NYC Council?
If you would like to work at the NYC Council during the fall or spring semesters, our online application serves as the application for course registration and the placement. If you are interested in working there during the summer, you must apply on your own.
How do I get my externship placement approved?
Check to see if your externship placement is already on our list of pre-approved placements. If not, your Supervising Attorney must fill out the Placement Approval Application and submit it to externship@law.fordham.edu.
How do I register for the Externship Program?
Once your completed application has been accepted, the Externship Program will forward your information to the Registrar for registration. Only the Externship Program has the ability to register you. The registration process takes time, and we ask applicants to be patient. We will send a confirmation e-mail only after you have been registered.
PLEASE NOTE: The Registrar will notify you if you have time conflicts, holds or if registration for the externship courses causes you to exceed the credit limit.
When will I know that my application has been accepted?
If we have any questions regarding your application, we will contact you. Prior to registration, you will only be contacted by us in the event that your application has been denied.
Can I be paid for my work during my externship?
You may NOT be paid by your employer. You may be reimbursed for out-of-pocket expenses such as travel to work. In some instances, students may receive fellowship money, but are required to work a significant number of additional hours. Please visit our Program Requirements page for more information.
Can I participate in more than one externship?
Yes, but not in the same semester and you may not work at the same placement more than once. If you're applying for your third externship, you must receive prior approval by e-mailing externship@law.fordham.edu.
Can I participate in an externship and a clinic in the same semester?
No, unless you're participating in the Mediation Clinic.
