The University of Manchester Sports Scholarships

The University of Manchester Sports Scholarship is a prestigious programme designed to support the UK's and the world's most talented student-athletes. It is tailored for those who are dedicated to achieving excellence both in their academic studies and their sporting careers. If you have the drive and proven performance to compete at a high national or international level, this scholarship provides the personalised support and resources to help you thrive in your dual career.

We pride ourselves on our person-centred approach, shaping your scholarship support based on your journey and your needs as an individual. Whether you have an existing support team (such as UK Sports Institute) or need our expert practitioners, we work with you from the outset to coordinate support that matters, placing you at the very centre of all decisions. For the 2025-2026 academic year, the application deadline is 31st August 2025. This guide provides a complete overview for domestic and international applicants, covering eligibility, benefits, the application process, and how to prepare a winning application.

The University of Manchester Sports Scholarship is exclusively for students studying at The University of Manchester. It supports students from all countries who are balancing study with achieving their aspirations to continue moving up their sporting pathway. The scholarship is applicable to both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

University of Manchester Sports Scholarship Awards

The University of Manchester Sports Scholarship is a comprehensive, high-performance support package valued at over £9,000. It is not just a monetary award but a bespoke programme designed to provide everything a student-athlete needs to succeed. The scholarship offers an individualised package to support your performance, including sports memberships, specialist facilities, and dedicated support.

The bespoke package includes:

• Up to £1500 towards training or competition expenses

• Annual gym pass for Armitage Sports Centre or Sugden Sports Centre

• Athletic Union club membership

• 1–2–1 sessions with our expert Strength and Conditioning Coaches

• Physiotherapy from our full-time University / TASS Physiotherapist

• Mentoring and Lifestyle support

• Official Sports Scholarship Kit

• Access to workshops for high-performing dual-career athletes

• Promotion of your sporting success

• Opportunity to be an ambassador for your sport

University of Manchester Sports Scholarship Amount

The sports scholarship provides a bespoke package with significant financial and in-kind support, contributing to a total value of over £9,000. The financial and resource support is tailored to your individual sporting needs.

University of Manchester Sports Scholarship Benefits

Beyond the significant financial support, the University of Manchester Sports Scholarship offers unparalleled athletic and personal development advantages. You join a community of elite athletes and receive support tailored to help you be the best you can be in sport, studies, and life. 

To be eligible for the programme, athletes will need to meet the minimum criteria. The criteria are strict and must be met fully to be considered for this high-performance scholarship.

Countries Eligible Under University of Manchester Sports Scholarships

The University of Manchester Sports Scholarship supports a global cohort of student-athletes. It is available to students from all countries, provided they meet the stringent performance and academic eligibility criteria. The programme aims to build a diverse, high-performing athletic community.

Competing at a minimum of UK Junior National level on a recognised player pathway of a Sport England/UK Sport recognised sport (for overseas applications, the standard must be equivalent to that of the UK).

Be contracted to a club in a professional/semi-professional league, competing at national/international level (for overseas applications, the standard must be equivalent to that of the UK).

The application process is completed online through the official University of Manchester website. It is highly competitive and involves a thorough assessment of your sporting and academic credentials. You must follow each step carefully.

1. Check Eligibility: Ensure you meet all the minimum performance and academic criteria before applying.
2. Prepare Documents: Gather your sporting CV, evidence of performance, and reference.
3. Complete Online Form: Fill out the official application form on the University's sports scholarship page before the deadline.
4. Submit Application: Review and submit your complete application with all supporting documents.
5. Selection Panel Review: The applications are reviewed by a panel against the published criteria.
6. Outcome Communication: Successful candidates will be contacted directly with an offer.

Application Timeline for University of Manchester Sports Scholarship

Adhering to the timeline is critical for success. The application window for the 2025-2026 academic year is now open. Mark this key date for the 2025 intake.

University of Manchester Sports Scholarship Interview

If you are shortlisted, you may be called for an interview. This interview is a key part of the selection process to assess your commitment, goals, and suitability for the high-performance support programme.

• The interview will typically be conducted in-person or online by the sports scholarship panel.
• You will be notified with details on how to schedule your interview if required. The interview will assess your alignment with the scholarship's values of personal excellence and dual-career management.
• You must be prepared to discuss your sporting journey, academic goals, and how you manage the demands of both. The panel will be looking for evidence of the headline areas in the eligibility criteria.

Documents Required

You need to prepare several documents for your application. These are crucial for the selection committee to assess your sporting achievements and potential. Start gathering them early.

• Proof of application or offer to study at the University of Manchester for the 2025 intake.
• Detailed sporting CV and performance history.
• Evidence of competition level (e.g., rankings, selection letters, results).
• A personal statement outlining your commitment to a dual career.
• A reference from your current coach or a national governing body.

FAQs about The University of Manchester Sports Scholarship

Who is eligible for the University of Manchester Sports Scholarship?

You must be a current University of Manchester student or a prospective student with an offer for 2025. You must also be competing at a minimum of UK Junior National level (or equivalent international standard) in a recognised sport.

What does the University of Manchester Sports Scholarship cover?

It is a comprehensive support package valued at over £9,000, including a training grant, free gym membership, expert S&C and physio support, mentoring, and scholarship kit.

Can I apply before I have received my offer to study?

Yes, you can apply as a prospective student, but you must have received a conditional or unconditional offer from the University of Manchester to be eligible for the final award.

Do I need to be a professional athlete to apply?

Not necessarily. You can qualify by competing at a high national level (e.g., UK Junior Nationals) or by being contracted to a professional/semi-professional club at a national/international level. The key is providing evidence of your performance standard.