Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 – Apply now for one of the world’s most distinguished pre-moot events in international commercial arbitration. Hosted by Harvard Law School, this in-person Pre-Moot offers teams a rare opportunity to refine their advocacy skills ahead of the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot. The event will take place from February 13–15, 2026, at 1585 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138.
Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 – Apply Now for February 2026 Opportunity
The Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 is a prestigious preparatory platform for law students participating in the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (Vienna and Hong Kong). The competition enables teams to practice oral pleadings before distinguished arbitrators, practitioners, and professors, simulating real-world arbitration settings.
Held at Harvard Law School, one of the world’s most renowned centers for legal education, this event embodies the spirit of global legal excellence and cross-cultural advocacy. The Pre-Moot focuses on international commercial arbitration, contract law, and procedural intricacies under the CISG and institutional rules, providing a rigorous and collaborative environment for law students to perfect their skills.
About the Organization / University
The Harvard Law School (HLS), established in 1817, is one of the oldest and most prestigious law schools in the world. Known for producing some of the most influential legal minds, including U.S. Supreme Court justices, global leaders, and Nobel laureates, HLS has long been synonymous with academic excellence and innovative legal education.
The Vis Pre-Moot at Harvard Law School serves as a gateway for international collaboration and excellence in arbitration. It draws participation from top law schools globally, fostering interaction with experienced arbitration practitioners, academics, and professionals from leading law firms. The event not only sharpens advocacy skills but also cultivates a deep understanding of the international arbitration framework and its application in cross-border commercial disputes.
About the Opportunity
The Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 is a three-day, in-person advocacy event where law school teams present oral arguments before panels of seasoned arbitrators. It mirrors the structure and standards of the official Willem C. Vis Moot Court, offering participants a chance to gain constructive feedback before the final rounds in Vienna or Hong Kong.
Participants will:
- Present oral submissions based on the Vis Moot problem.
- Receive feedback from arbitration experts and HLS faculty.
- Engage in professional networking with peers and practitioners.
- Enhance research, reasoning, and advocacy abilities in international commercial law.
This opportunity offers an unparalleled learning experience for students aiming to excel in dispute resolution, arbitration law, and international legal practice.
Event Timeline
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Opens | October 2025 |
| Application Deadline | December 5, 2025 |
| Notification of Selection | Early December 2025 |
| Event Dates | February 13–15, 2026 |
Location and Mode
Mode: Offline (In-person only)
Location / Address: Harvard Law School, 1585 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
Format and Structure
| Parameter | Details |
|---|---|
| Duration | 3 days (February 13–15, 2026) |
| Working Hours | As per event schedule |
| Supervisor / Mentor | Coordinators and LL.M. Team, Harvard Law School |
Eligibility & Requirements
The Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 is open to law school teams that have registered for the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (Vienna or Hong Kong).
Key requirements include:
- Teams must consist of registered participants in the Vis Moot.
- Registration for the Pre-Moot must be completed by December 5, 2025.
- Selection is based on institutional representation and application details.
- Cross-institutional teams are not permitted.
- Teams must confirm participation with a registration fee of $150 upon selection.
Participation is highly competitive, and submission of the registration form does not guarantee selection. Only selected teams will receive confirmation and payment instructions.
Additional Highlights
• International exposure and interaction with global arbitration professionals
• Simulation of real-world arbitral proceedings
• Certificate of Participation for all accepted teams
• Mentorship and evaluation by experienced arbitrators and practitioners
• Networking opportunities with leading academics and legal experts
• Skill-building experience ahead of the Willem C. Vis Moot
FAQs about Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026
1. Who can apply for this Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026?
Law schools that are officially registered for the Willem C. Vis International Commercial Arbitration Moot (Vienna or Hong Kong) may apply. Each team must submit its details via the registration link before December 5, 2025. Participation is limited and based on selection criteria set by the organizing committee.
2. Is this Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026 paid or unpaid?
Participation requires a registration fee of $150, payable only upon acceptance. This fee confirms the team’s participation and covers event-related expenses such as logistics and hospitality.
3. What is the last date to apply?
The final date to apply is December 5, 2025 (11:59 PM EST). Teams will be informed of their selection shortly after registration closes.
4. What is the selection process?
Registration does not ensure participation. The organizing committee will review applications and select teams based on criteria such as institutional representation and prior participation. Accepted teams will receive a confirmation email and payment instructions.
5. Will I receive a certificate after completion?
Yes, all participating teams will receive a Certificate of Participation from Harvard Law School, acknowledging their contribution to the Pre-Moot.
Important Links
• Application Form Link: Register Here
Downloadables
• Event Poster – Harvard Law School Vis Pre-Moot 2026
Contact Information
• Email: jhvolboel@llm26.law.harvard.edu | mdiaztarrago@llm26.law.harvard.edu
• Address: Harvard Law School, 1585 Massachusetts Ave, Cambridge, MA 02138, USA
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