Top 10 Sports Scholarships in Europe in 2024
Are you an international student looking for the top sports scholarships in Europe? In this article, you will find the best sports scholarships in Europe for 2024. Get information about prestigious programs offering financial support, world-class facilities, and expert coaching for student-athletes.
Europe isn’t just a place where you would find all the sports in the world; it’s also a place where aspiring student-athletes that want to blend academic excellence with athletic prowess. If you are dreaming of donning your university’s colors while pursuing a degree, these top European sports scholarships could be your golden ticket.
Let’s go into the ten outstanding scholarship opportunities that can help you achieve your dual goals of academic and athletic success:
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10 Sports Scholarships in Europe
1. University of Birmingham Athletics Scholarship
This scholarship is aimed at elite athletes who excel in their sports. Recipients receive financial support to help cover their expenses, access to specialized coaching, and use of top-notch training facilities. The program is designed to support athletes in their academic and athletic pursuits.
Level of Study
- Any Undergraduate
- Any Postgraduate
- Subject Area
- Arts and Law
- Engineering and Physical Sciences
- Life and Environmental Sciences
- Medicine and Health
- Social Sciences
- Nationality
- EU
- Overseas (Non-EU)
- UK
Type of Award
University-based
Award Description
Each year, the University of Birmingham (UoB) Sport Scholarship supports elite athletes who excel in their respective sports, with many going on to break records, claim national titles, and compete on the international stage.
The UoB Sport Scholarship is the university’s premier award, currently providing support to 30 student-athletes who compete at a junior international level or higher.
Value of the Award
The value of the UoB Sport Scholarship is tailored to each recipient based on an individual assessment. The scholarship package includes:
- Three payments per academic year to assist with training, competition expenses, and living costs
- Full access to the Sport & Fitness Core Peak membership, which includes unlimited use of gym, swimming, and squash facilities
- Additional funding for specialized coaching and international competitions
- Provision of sports kit and other athlete resources
- A personalized athlete profiling day that includes sport-specific screenings and consultations with experts
- A custom strength and conditioning program with access to the high-performance gym
- Support from a full-time team of sport science professionals, including experts in nutrition, physiology, and psychology
- Guidance from a dedicated lifestyle mentor
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants must be student-athletes who compete at a junior international level or higher in sports recognized by BUCS (British Universities & Colleges Sport), the Olympics, or the Commonwealth Games. The scholarship is open to students of all nationalities and levels of study, including those enrolled in postgraduate programs. The selection process takes into account any disruptions caused by COVID-19 that may have impacted competition opportunities.
How to Apply
Applications for the UoB Sports Scholarship open every December and close the following June, ahead of the academic year starting in September.
2. Loughborough University Performance Scholarships
Loughborough University offers a prestigious sports scholarship program for student-athletes who demonstrate outstanding performance. Selected applicants gain access to world-class sports facilities, receive professional coaching, and enjoy academic flexibility to balance their studies with training.
At Loughborough University, we understand the unique challenges faced by student-athletes balancing their academic commitments with elite-level sport. Our sporting performance programmes provide comprehensive support, ensuring student-athletes can thrive both in their studies and in their sport.
Benefits for Performance Squad Members
All members of our performance squads benefit from extensive support worth thousands of pounds, including:
- Expert coaching
- Strength and conditioning programmes
- Sports medicine and sports science support
- Nutritional guidance
- Psychological support
- Lifestyle management
- Academic flexibility to help balance studies and sporting commitments
In addition to this, student-athletes who receive a sports scholarship are eligible for direct financial assistance.
Loughborough Sport Scholarships
Key Benefits of the Scholarship:
- Up to £5,000 per year in financial support
- Free Loughborough Sport Gold membership, which includes access to Powerbase, one of the UK’s largest strength and conditioning gyms
- Free membership to the Athletic Union club
- Campus parking permit
Available Performance Programmes:
We offer performance programmes in the following sports:
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Football
- Hockey
- Netball
- Rugby Union
- Squash
- Swimming
- Tennis
- Triathlon
- Women’s Wheelchair Basketball
For the most up-to-date information on each scholarship, eligibility criteria, and how to apply, please visit the Loughborough Sport Scholarships page.
International Sports Student Postgraduate Bursary
This bursary is aimed at postgraduate student-athletes who can enhance our performance programmes and compete for Loughborough University in the British Universities & Colleges Sport (BUCS) competition.
Bursary Details:
- 40% reduction in tuition fees (valued at approximately £8,000, applicable only to postgraduate taught programmes)
- Funded by Loughborough University
- Available to self-funded students who meet the high academic and sporting standards
 Eligibility and Application Process
The bursary is awarded to high-achieving student-athletes based on both academic and sporting excellence. The selection panel will evaluate your academic abilities, sporting accomplishments, and motivation, so it’s essential to submit a strong application.
To apply:
- Submit an official application for your chosen postgraduate programme.
- Preferably, secure a conditional offer before applying for the bursary.
- Ensure you have a valid postgraduate application number and offer confirmation.
Performance Programmes:
We currently offer performance programmes in:
- Athletics
- Badminton
- Basketball
- Cricket
- Cycling
- Football
- Field Hockey
- Netball
- Rugby Union
- Swimming
- Squash
- Tennis
- Triathlon
- Lacrosse may also be considered.
3. University of Exeter Sports Scholarship Program
The University of Exeter provides a comprehensive sports scholarship program for talented athletes. This scholarship includes financial support, personalized coaching from experienced trainers, and access to premier sports facilities. It aims to help athletes achieve excellence both academically and in their sports.
4. University of Edinburgh Sports Scholarships
The University of Edinburgh offers sports scholarships to promising athletes. These scholarships provide financial assistance, along with tailored support to help athletes excel in their chosen sports. The program also includes access to training resources and facilities that are crucial for their development.
5. University of Glasgow Athlete Support Fund
The University of Glasgow’s Athlete Support Fund is designed to assist student-athletes with financial aid, mentorship, and access to exceptional training programs. This fund helps athletes maintain a balance between their academic responsibilities and athletic training, supporting their growth in both areas.
The University of Glasgow, recognize the challenges that student-athletes face when balancing elite-level sport with academic commitments. The programme is designed to provide the necessary support for student-athletes to succeed in both arenas, making Glasgow the ideal place for athletes to develop their sporting potential while pursuing a university degree.Â
Athlete Support Services
Talented athletes at the University of Glasgow have access to a range of support services, which may include:
- Financial Support: Awards ranging from £200 to £1,200 per year
- Free UofG Sport Membership: Access to all University sports facilities
- Academic Flexibility: Support to help balance academic responsibilities with training and competition schedules
- Strength and Conditioning Support: Tailored programs to enhance physical performance
- Sports Psychology: Mental health and performance-focused support
- Nutritional Advice: Expert guidance on optimizing diet for performance
- Links to the University Sports Science Department: Access to academic expertise and research
- Performance Testing: Regular assessments to track and improve athletic performance
Sport-Specific Bursaries
In addition to general athlete support, the University of Glasgow offers bursaries for specific sports, including:
- Women’s Basketball
- Golf
- Women’s Hockey
- Tennis
- Rowing
This comprehensive support structure enables our athletes to compete at the highest levels while progressing academically.Â
For more information about our athlete support programme, visit the University of Glasgow Sports Scholarships page.
6. Cardiff Metropolitan University Sports Scholarships
Cardiff Metropolitan University offers sports scholarships to talented student-athletes. The scholarships cover funding for training and competition costs, along with academic support. This program is designed to help athletes thrive in their sport while maintaining their academic performance.
The institution takes pride in providing a supportive environment for all student-athletes, helping them to develop and succeed both academically and in their respective sports. Through the performance programmes, student-athletes receive access to dedicated coaches, in-house support services, and academic staff, offering a comprehensive support package valued at thousands of pounds, all located on campus.
Recognizing the additional financial challenges of competing at a high level while pursuing academic studies, the institution offers annual cash scholarships ranging from £1,000 to £5,000.
Scholarship Process
Performance Programmes:Â Â
For athletes in the following sports, there is no formal application process. The coaching teams identify potential scholarship recipients through the recruitment cycle, and any athlete selected for a scholarship will be contacted directly. Â
The included sports are:Â Â
- Athletics Â
- Women’s Basketball Â
- Wheelchair Basketball Â
- Men’s Cricket Â
- Men’s Hockey Â
- Women’s Hockey Â
- Men’s Football Â
- Women’s Football Â
- Netball Â
- Men’s Rugby Union Â
- Women’s Rugby Union Â
- Triathlon
Other Sports:Â Â
For the 2024/25 academic year, there will be no formal scholarship application process for other sports. However, if an athlete believes they meet the performance criteria outlined below, they may express their interest using the provided link. Each expression of interest will be reviewed individually, and the institution will contact athletes whose applications may be taken further.
Performance Criteria:Â Â
Athletes should be competing at a national or international level in their sport. The selection process will take into consideration the specific pathway and competition structure of the athlete’s sport, including both senior and age-group representation. For UK-based athletes, home nation and Great Britain representation will also be considered in relation to the sport’s development pathway.
7. Manchester Metropolitan University Sports Scholarship Program
Manchester Metropolitan University (Manchester Met) offers a comprehensive sports scholarship package designed to support and nurture dual-career athletes in a world-class sporting city. The university’s programme is tailored to meet the individual needs of each athlete, recognizing the unique challenges they face in balancing academic pursuits with athletic excellence.
The scholarship package, valued at up to £7,000 per year, includes a range of benefits to support athletes’ development. Recipients can enjoy a tuition fee discount between 20% and 40%, with the possibility of further reductions for outstanding athletes. Scholars also gain access to the self-funded Performance Sport townhouse accommodation and receive financial contributions towards their expenses.
Manchester Met provides scholars with access to both on-campus and local sporting facilities, ensuring they have the resources needed to maintain peak performance. The package includes personalized sports science support, bespoke nutritional guidance, physiotherapy, and sports massage services. Athletes can also take advantage of the university’s performance sport science suite and receive tailored strength and conditioning programmes.
Additional benefits include free sports club membership for team athletes, lifestyle support, and MMU Sport branded kit from the official supplier, Kukri. The university’s sports scholarship committee awards these scholarships on a case-by-case basis, with priority given to athletes competing in sports featured within the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) programme.
To be eligible for a sports scholarship at Manchester Met, candidates must be enrolled or in the process of applying to an undergraduate or postgraduate degree course at the university. They should be competing at a regional, national, or international standard in their chosen sport or demonstrate significant future potential. Scholars must also be able to represent Manchester Met in their sport and meet the academic requirements of their course.
The university welcomes applications from athletes in all individual sports contested in BUCS, as well as from team sports including Basketball, Lacrosse, Netball, Rugby Union, Swimming, and Water Polo. Athletes competing at an elite level in other team sports are encouraged to contact the sports scholarship department directly.
Applications for sports scholarships at Manchester Metropolitan University typically reopen on November 1st each year, providing aspiring scholar-athletes with the opportunity to pursue their dual careers in a supportive and competitive environment.
8. Brunel University London Sports Scholarships
Brunel University offers prestigious sport scholarships as part of their elite student sport package, providing substantial support to exceptional athletes pursuing their academic goals. These scholarships offer funding of up to £3,000, along with comprehensive on-campus assistance to students who excel in their respective sporting disciplines.
Athletes of competitive caliber choosing to study at Brunel can benefit from these sport scholarships, which are designed to alleviate the financial burden associated with competition expenses and accommodation. Additionally, scholars receive mentoring support and enjoy complimentary access to the university’s state-of-the-art sports facilities.
Through generous donations, Brunel’s scholarship programs cater to a wide range of talented individuals, from world-class performers competing at international levels to English Schools Champions. While the university’s priority sports include Athletics, Netball, Rugby, Basketball, and Futsal, funding opportunities extend to various other disciplines. These encompass Archery, Badminton, Canoeing/Rowing, Cycling, Women’s Football, Golf, Hockey, Judo, Squash, Swimming, Table Tennis, Tennis, Triathlon, Olympic Wrestling, and Olympic Weightlifting.
This comprehensive approach ensures that Brunel University can nurture and support a diverse array of sporting talent, fostering an environment where academic excellence and athletic achievement can thrive in tandem.
9. University of Bath Sports Scholarship Program
The University of Bath is dedicated to fostering both academic and athletic excellence, offering a supportive environment for student-athletes. As the first UK university to provide sport scholarships, it continues to lead in supporting athlete development through financial assistance. The scholarships reward athletes for their dedication to improvement and align with the university’s Student Performance Sport and Breakthrough Programmes.
Many scholarship recipients have gone on to achieve international success, including Olympic medalists like Tom Dean, Joe Choong, and Anna Hopkin, who have all benefitted from the University of Bath’s comprehensive support.
 Scholarship Support and Eligibility
Scholarships are non-repayable cash awards, disbursed in instalments, with no restrictions on how recipients use the funds. These scholarships are funded through alumni, corporate partners, and donors, and the number and value may vary annually.
To be eligible for a sport scholarship, student-athletes must:
- Meet the Breakthrough Programme and Sport Scholarship specific criteria.
- Be enrolled in at least 30 credits of study at the University of Bath.
- Not be serving any period of ineligibility due to anti-doping rule violations.
- Not have been found guilty of misconduct under the University’s Student Disciplinary Regulations.
or the 2024/25 academic year, the following sport scholarships will be available:
Scholarship | Number Available | Funding Offered | Eligibility |
Bill Whiteley | Two | Up to £5,000 per year for up to four years | Specific criteria required |
Trendell | One | £2,500 per year for up to three years | Specific criteria required |
Goldsmith | One (every three years) | £1,250 per year for up to three years | Specific criteria required |
Application and Selection Process
To apply for a scholarship for the 2024/25 academic year, athletes must complete an online form for the Breakthrough Programme, which opens on Friday, 31st May 2024, and closes on Friday, 27th September 2024. Applicants should indicate their interest in a sport scholarship by selecting “Yes” to question 14 on the form.
The selection process includes:
- Shortlisting: Based on eligibility and supporting statements.
- Interviews: Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed by the Performance Sport Officer and the Head of Performance Sport during the week of 7th October 2024.
- Final Selection: A panel will review the applications and make final decisions by the end of October.
The selection panel includes university officials such as the Pro-Vice Chancellor (Student Experience), Director of Sport, and the Head of Student Performance Sport, among others. Scholarships are discretionary, and meeting all eligibility criteria does not guarantee an award.
Outcome and Conditions
Candidates who reach the final panel stage will be informed of their application outcomes via email. All decisions regarding scholarships are at the discretion of the University of Bath, and there is no right of appeal on these decisions.
Athletes who receive scholarships must adhere to the terms and conditions outlined in the Team Bath Athlete Agreement.
10. Aston University Sports Scholarships
Aston University’s Sports Scholarships are designed to nurture talent across various sports. The program offers financial support, coaching, and access to training facilities to help athletes reach their goals. The scholarships aim to support both athletic and academic achievements.
Eligibility:
- Open to both undergraduate and postgraduate students
- Applicants must have an offer to study at Aston University
- Demonstrate outstanding ability in a sport recognized by Sport England
- Compete at national or international level in their sport
Scholarship Benefits:
- Financial support towards tuition fees or living expenses
- Access to high-quality training facilities
- Strength and conditioning support
- Physiotherapy and sports massage services
- Personalized lifestyle management advice
- Flexible academic arrangements to accommodate training and competition schedules
Application Process:
- Apply for a course at Aston University
- Complete the sports scholarship application form
- Provide evidence of sporting achievements and references
- Attend an interview or assessment day if shortlisted
Selection Criteria:
- Sporting achievements and potential
- Academic performance
- Commitment to representing Aston University in competitions
- Leadership qualities and ability to be a sporting ambassador for the university
Deadline:
Applications are typically due in the spring for the following academic year. Check the Aston University website for specific dates.
Renewal:
Scholarships are awarded for one year but may be renewed subject to satisfactory academic progress and continued sporting performance.
For more detailed information and to apply, visit the Aston University Sports Scholarships webpage or contact the university’s sports department directly.
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Conclusion on Sports Scholarships in EuropeÂ
These top 10 sports scholarships in Europe for 2024 offer more than just financial aid; they provide a launchpad for your athletic and academic aspirations. Each program is uniquely designed to nurture talent, offering world-class facilities, expert coaching, and the support needed to excel in your chosen sport while pursuing higher education.
Remember, the competition for these scholarships can be fierce, so start your application process early. Showcase your athletic achievements, academic prowess, and leadership potential. With determination and the right opportunity, you could be the next sports star to emerge from Europe’s prestigious universities.
Whether you dream of Olympic glory or aspire to be a game-changer in your field, these scholarships can be your stepping stone to success. So, lace up your shoes, hit the books, and prepare to embark on an exciting journey combining the best sports and education in Europe!
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