University of Exeter - Sports Scholarship

What you get

You will receive cash sum of up to about EUR 3,500 (up to £3,000) per year towards sports-related expenses, as well as a support package worth over 3,500 (£3,500) euros in the form of services. The amount of the grant depends on your sport, your performance and your potential for development. The support is available all year round. It includes physiotherapy (three free initial consultations per week and a 50% discount on further appointments), strength and conditioning training up to four times a week, coaching from national and international coaches, sports psychology, and workshops on nutrition and time management. You’ll also have access to first-class training facilities. The scholarship is renewed annually, provided you continue to meet the criteria. It is awarded by the University of Exeter, which runs one of the UK’s best-known sports scholarship programmes.

Who can apply

• University: You are studying at the University of Exeter or have been offered a place there.
• Degree level: You are a student on an undergraduate or postgraduate programme.
• Sport level: You take part in international competitions and are part of an Olympic development programme (age group U-19 and above) organised by your national sports federation, the official governing body for your sport.
• Ranking: You’ll be included in the national rankings, provided there are any for your sport.
• Sports covered: Cricket, golf, hockey, lacrosse, netball, rugby and sailing.
• Commitment: You will compete for the University in BUCS (British Universities and Colleges Sport) competitions and continue to take part in national or international competitions whilst you are studying.
• Field of study: You can study any subject.
• Nationality: All nationalities can apply.

How to apply

Applications must be submitted via the online form on the university’s website. The application period runs from 31 October to 31 May for the programme starting the following September. If you are shortlisted, you may be asked for further information during the summer and invited to attend a preparatory course at the end of August. Final decisions will be made between September and early November.

How realistic are your chances?

This funding scheme is very narrowly defined. You must already be competing internationally as part of an Olympic development programme in one of a limited number of sports, meaning that the pool of eligible applicants is small and clearly defined. If you do indeed meet these elite standards and are studying in Exeter or planning to study there, your chances are good. The high sporting standards are far more decisive than the size of the applicant pool. Apply within the specified timeframe and be prepared to provide your competition results.