Ames Qualifying Round
The Qualifying Round is the first round of the upper-level Ames Competition, open each fall to the entire 2L class. Teams brief and argue a hypothetical appellate case, with four teams advancing to the Semi-Final Round in the spring.
About the Round
Eligibility and teams
All students enrolled in their first year of post-1L law school courses are eligible to compete. In Phase One, each team consists of four students.
2026 Interest Form & Information Session
Sign up through the interest form to receive updates about the Qualifying Round and to be matched with teammates if you do not yet have a team.
The Upper-Level Ames Committee will also hold an information session on how the round works, the problem, and how to form a team. Details to be announced.
Coming SoonHow It Works
The Two Phases
Every registered team submits an Appellant Brief on the Qualifying Round problem. Sixteen teams advance to Phase Two. Teams that do not advance do not present oral argument.
The sixteen advancing teams submit an Appellee Brief and present oral argument before panels of HLS faculty, practitioners, and 3L BSAs in November.
Preparing Your Brief
The Ames Brief Archive
Briefs from past Ames competitions, available as a resource for competitors. They provide useful examples of effective structure and argument as you prepare your Qualifying Round brief.
The Archive →Questions about Qualifying Round?
Email the Ames Committee at [email protected].