University of Essex - Sports Scholarship

What the Essex Sports Scholarship gives you

Whilst studying at the University of Essex, you will receive financial and practical support for your sporting activities. Support is provided in three tiers: a reduction in tuition fees of up to 100% for the best athletes, a scholarship of varying amounts, or a benefits package worth up to approximately 1,730 EUR (1,500 GBP). In addition to the financial support, each scholarship recipient receives a personalised strength and conditioning programme with dedicated coaches, access to physiotherapy, sports massages and rehabilitation in the event of injury, official Essex sportswear, a Gold gym membership, priority access to training facilities, and support in balancing training and studies. You can also play in national or professional leagues, such as the British Championship in basketball or the Women’s Super League in volleyball. The scholarship is administered by the ‘Performance Sport’ department at Essex Sport on the Colchester campus.

Who can apply

• Where you study: You are about to start your degree or are already studying at the University of Essex, Colchester Campus. To be eligible for the award, you must accept your place there.
• Degree level: You are a Bachelor’s or Master’s student on a degree programme.
• Field of study: Any subject.
• Sporting level: You take part in competitions at academy, regional, national or international level in the UK, or at an equivalent level in your home country.
• Your sport: The focus is on basketball, volleyball, football and tennis. Individual athletes from other sports, such as gymnastics, karate, athletics, swimming or weightlifting, are also welcome to apply.
• Nationality: Any nationality can apply.

How to apply

You apply online via the University of Essex. First, accept a place on the Colchester Campus. The application deadline for 2026-27 has passed. The next application round for 2027-28 is expected to begin in October 2026. Please read the entry requirements and terms and conditions carefully before applying.

How realistic are your chances?

This award is tied to a specific university and campus and recognises genuine sporting achievements alongside academic studies; as a result, the pool of applicants is more limited than for open financial scholarships. If you are already competing at academy, regional, national or international level and are taking up a place at the University of Essex, your chances are good, particularly in one of the priority disciplines. Make sure you prepare well in advance, as the application window opens only once a year.