University of Birmingham - Performance Sport Scholarship (University of Birmingham)

Performance Sport Scholarship (University of Birmingham)

You get a cash award of up to £2,000 (about 2,300 EUR) plus access to the university's Performance Centre. The centre offers specialist support such as sports medicine and performance testing. If you are an undergraduate, the university may also lower the grades you need to be admitted by one grade. This is the middle of three sport scholarships at the University of Birmingham (Tier 2). It sits below the Elite Dual Career Athlete Pathway (up to £5,000) and above the Lion Sports Award (up to £500). It is aimed at student-athletes with strong potential who do not quite meet the top tier's criteria.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You have applied to an undergraduate or postgraduate programme at the University of Birmingham and are starting your studies there.
• Residence and nationality: You live in the UK or Ireland and are a UK or Irish national.
• Sporting level: You can show strong sporting ability, for example junior international representation, a place in a professional club academy, or competing in national leagues or national and international championships.
• Potential: You can win medals or score points at BUCS Championship events (British Universities and Colleges Sport competitions), or make a strong contribution to a university first team or squad.
• Sport: Open to a range of sports. The flagship sports get particular consideration: athletics, badminton, hockey, men's rugby union, netball, squash and swimming.
• Field of study: Open to all subjects and levels, from bachelor's to master's and doctorate.

How to apply

First apply for a University of Birmingham programme. Then complete the separate Sport Scholarship application form, where you list your sporting achievements and the contact details of a coach who supports you. Applications open on 1 October 2026 and close on 20 January 2027. Decisions come by 31 March 2027. If you are an undergraduate, apply as soon as you have your UCAS ID so any grade reduction can be built into your offer.

How realistic are your chances?

This award is narrowly targeted. You must be a UK or Irish student-athlete competing at a high level, so the eligible group is far smaller than for open scholarships. Meeting the criteria does not guarantee a place, and preference goes to the seven flagship sports. A clear competition record and a coach's backing are what set applicants apart. If you fit a flagship sport and apply early, your prospects are good.