Sports Scholarships (University of Gloucestershire)

What you get

You get a cash bursary of about EUR 350 to EUR 3,500 per year (300 to 3,000 GBP), paid in three instalments in November, February and May, plus a support package. On top of the money you receive sports therapy and physiotherapy, a multigym membership, membership of the Students' Union sports clubs, a scholar kit, and workshops on nutrition, anti-doping and sport psychology. Your BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) membership and competition entry fees are covered too. If you are a coach or official, you also get mentoring (one-to-one guidance) for your coaching or officiating. The award comes from the University of Gloucestershire, which backs a "dual career" model: doing well in your sport and your studies at the same time. In 2026/27 the university plans to give out around 10 new scholarships, so both the number of awards and each amount depend on how strong the applicant field is. Part-time students get a pro-rata share of the bursary.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are enrolled, or applying to enrol, on any undergraduate or postgraduate course at the University of Gloucestershire. You can apply even before you have a confirmed study place.
• Field of study: Any subject at any campus. Sport-related degrees are welcome but not required.
• Who it is for: Athletes, coaches or officials (referees, umpires and similar).
• Your sport: Your sport is part of the Olympic, Paralympic, Commonwealth or BUCS competition programme. It must also be recognised by Sport England and have a national governing body.
• Your level: You have strong ability in your sport, usually at least regional level, though this varies by sport. If you are in your first year, you are judged on your sporting performance in the year before you start. If you are a returning student, you are judged on both your sport and your studies.
• What you commit to: You represent the university in BUCS competitions, take part in reviews two to three times a year, and act as an ambassador at at least two open or applicant days.

How to apply

You apply in one step through the online enquiry form or by email to the sports scholarships team. A scholarship panel reviews all applications and its decision is final. Applications for September 2026 are open. There is no fixed deadline, but the panel picks the best field each year, so apply early.

How realistic are your chances?

This award targets a specific group: talented athletes, coaches or officials in recognised sports at one particular university. So the pool is smaller than for open scholarships. With only around 10 new awards in 2026/27, down from about 20 the year before, competition is real, and your sporting level is what decides it. If you clearly compete at regional level or above in an eligible sport and apply early, your prospects are good.