Sport Excellence Programme (SEP)

What you get

You get a cash bursary at one of three levels: Bronze, Silver or Gold. Your level depends on how you perform and how expensive your sport is. The exact amounts are not published. You can spend the money on travel, competition costs, equipment or living costs. On top of the money you get a personal performance package: strength and conditioning, sports therapy, sports psychology, nutrition and lifestyle mentoring (regular one-to-one coaching). You also get access to a performance gym, a sport science lab and therapy suites. As a dual-career university, Solent adjusts your timetable and assessment deadlines around your training and competitions, and gives you a dedicated Athlete Support Officer. The award runs for one year. You must reapply each year to keep it. It does not cover tuition fees or accommodation. Solent University runs the programme.

Who can apply

• University: You have accepted an offer for, or are already enrolled on, a full- or part-time undergraduate or postgraduate course at Southampton Solent University.
• Field of study: Any subject, not just sport courses.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply, including international students.
• Sporting level: You compete, or clearly could compete, at junior or senior national or international level. You can also qualify if you are on a National Governing Body or professional pathway, or perform at a level that would clearly boost Solent's sporting results.
• Your sport: Your sport is Olympic or Paralympic, recognised by BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport), or listed as a Sport England recognised activity.
• Injured athletes: You can still apply if you are currently injured.

How to apply

First register your interest by email with your name, sport and course by 2pm on Friday 25 September 2026. Once your offer or enrolment is confirmed, you are sent an application form. Undergraduate forms are due by 27 September and postgraduate forms by 30 September 2026. If you are shortlisted, you attend a short interview with a 10-minute presentation.

How realistic are your chances?

Places are competitive and not guaranteed even if you meet the criteria. The sporting bar is what really decides it: the panel looks for athletes competing at national level or on a recognised pathway, which narrows the field. If you clearly fit that level and can prove it, and you are already an accepted or enrolled Solent student, your prospects are good. Register your interest early, as the process runs to a tight annual timetable.