University of Leeds - Leeds Sports Scholarship

What the Leeds Sports Scholarship gives you

Whilst studying at University of Leeds, you will receive a scholarship of up to about 1,150 EUR (1,000 GBP) as well as a comprehensive support package for athletes. In your first year, you can also take advantage of one of the limited number of halls of residence discounts worth approximately 1,725 EUR (1,500 GBP). The support package includes a premium membership at ‘The Edge’ gym, weekly sports massages and physiotherapy, strength and conditioning training, as well as workshops on nutrition and sports psychology with personalised advice where required. You’ll also receive casual clothing and support in balancing your training with your studies. The scholarship is administered by the University of Leeds sports team (Leeds Gryphons). Tuition fees and general living costs are not covered.

Who can apply

• University: You are studying at the University of Leeds or are about to start your studies there.
• Level: You are a student on an undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Nationality: Applicants of all nationalities are welcome to apply, including international students.
• Your sport: You participate in a sport that forms part of BUCS (British University Sports), the Olympic Games, the Paralympics or the Commonwealth Games. Priority sports include swimming, diving, rowing, gymnastics, athletics, women’s football, ice hockey, rugby union, field hockey and martial arts (taekwondo, karate, judo).
• Level of performance: You are a member of the elite squad of the national sports federation for your sport, or of its youth development programme (U21 or equivalent). You have also represented the national team in national or international competitions over the last 12 months.
• Club: You are a member of a recognised club or academy and take part in competitions at national level.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted online via a form on the university’s sports website. There are two separate forms: one for cricket and netball players and one for all other sports. The application deadline is 24 July. For the team programmes in netball, cricket and triathlon, a trial session forms part of the selection process.

How realistic are your chances?

This scholarship is aimed at genuine elite athletes, so you won’t be competing against the entire student body, but against people who are already competing at national or international level. If you’re part of a competitive sports team, have recently received honours as a representative and are studying at Leeds, you’re definitely in the target group and your prospects are good. Places are limited and competition is fierce, so a strong, well-documented sporting career is key. Applying early is advisable, as places are snapped up quickly.