Anglia Ruskin University - Sports Scholarships Scheme

ARU Sport Scholarship

You will receive financial support for your studies at Anglia Ruskin University (ARU) in England. There are two levels, depending on the level at which you compete. The Elite Level provides a cash grant of approximately 1,600 EUR per year (1,400 GBP) for athletes competing at regional or national level. The Podium Level scheme exempts you from all or part of your tuition fees, up to a value of approximately 14,500 EUR per year (12,500 GBP), for athletes competing at international level. This funding applies for the standard full-time duration of your degree, provided you successfully complete your coursework. You will also receive strength and conditioning training, workshops on improving sporting performance, travel and accommodation expenses for approved competitions, and free access to the fitness centres on the campuses in Cambridge and Chelmsford. Podium athletes also receive personalised training sessions and sports therapy.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are studying for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree at ARU at its Cambridge, Chelmsford or Peterborough campuses. Foundation courses, extended foundation courses, work-study programmes, distance-learning programmes and short courses are not eligible.
• Nationality: Students from the UK, the EU and other countries are eligible to apply.
• Sport: Primarily for basketball and volleyball, the ARU’s competitive sports. In exceptional cases, individual athletes competing at the highest level may also apply.
• Competition level: At the Elite level, you compete at regional or national level. At the Podium level, you compete at national or international level.
• Team impact: You can demonstrate that you will significantly improve your ARU team’s results or their points tally in the University League (BUCS).
• Grades: You meet the entry requirements for your chosen degree programme.

How to apply

You should apply by email to the ARU’s Manager for Clubs and Competitive Sport. Please send an application form and a brief explanation of why you are suitable for the role. Applications are accepted throughout the year; there is no fixed deadline, but you must apply before the start of your degree programme. A panel of ARU staff will assess your application. You may be asked to provide a report from a physiotherapist or undergo a medical examination, and you may be invited to an interview.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding scheme is aimed at a small target group: primarily basketball and volleyball players who are already competing at regional level or higher and who can strengthen an ARU team. If you clearly fit this profile and can provide evidence of your competitive achievements, your chances are good. Make sure you apply well in advance of the course starting, as you’ll need to undergo an assessment beforehand.