University of Birmingham - Physics Bursary

Benefit

You will receive about 920 EUR (£800) per year as a cash payment for the duration of your physics degree, which is approximately 36 months for a standard three-year degree programme. The money will be paid into your bank account. It is intended to cover sports-related costs such as gym membership, training, equipment or competition fees. The Faculty of Physics and Astronomy at the University of Birmingham administers the scholarship in conjunction with the University’s Sport and Fitness Team. Each year, only 1 to 4 students receive this scholarship. You can renew it annually if you achieve a grade point average of 60% at the first attempt and maintain your sporting standard.

Eligibility

• Degree: In 1, you will begin a Bachelor’s degree in Physics (BSc or MSci), for example in the following specialisations: Physics, Physics and Astrophysics, Theoretical Physics, Physics with Data Science, Medical Physics or Particle Physics.
• Where you study: You’re studying at the University of Birmingham’s Edgbaston campus in the UK.
• Sport: You compete in a sport recognised by the Commonwealth Games or the Olympic Games, usually at regional or national junior level or higher.
• Nationality: Applicants of any nationality and residing in any country are welcome to apply.
• Other awards: This scholarship cannot be held at the same time as a sports scholarship from the university, as the latter takes precedence.

How to apply

First, apply to the University of Birmingham via UCAS and list an eligible physics degree programme as your first choice. Once you have been offered a place, the university will contact eligible applicants in August and send them an application form. The deadline for applying for the scholarship is 31 August. The University of Birmingham’s Sports Department will then assess your sporting achievements.

How realistic are your chances?

The selection criteria for this award are very strict. You must be studying a specific physics degree in Birmingham and compete at a high level in an Olympic or Commonwealth sport, meaning that very few people qualify. Each year, there are only 1 to 4 places available, and preference is given to those who are most likely to strengthen the university teams. If you clearly meet both the academic and sporting requirements, your chances are good.