The international student community is buzzing as Durham University officially opens applications for the Global Sport Awards: International Scholarships 2026/27—a competitive funding opportunity designed exclusively for high-performance student-athletes. With up to £5,000 per year, this award aims to support talented European and international fee-paying undergraduates who can compete at elite sport levels. Preference this year goes to applicants from the USA, Canada, and South Africa, but outstanding athletes from all other countries are strongly encouraged to apply.
This scholarship stands out for its focus on sporting excellence, offering up to 20 scholarship awards for students joining undergraduate programs in 2026 (excluding Foundation and Law degrees). Recipients must be fully self-funding, hold European or international fee status, and commit to representing Durham University or their respective college in competitive sports throughout their studies. In return, awardees receive substantial fee support and the chance to become part of Durham’s thriving high-performance sport ecosystem.
With two selection rounds closing on 30 January 2026 and 15 May 2026, prospective students are urged to secure an academic offer, accept it within UCAS deadlines, and connect early with Team Durham. Candidates who can demonstrate exceptional sport potential and the discipline to contribute actively to university sport will find this award a powerful stepping stone toward both academic and athletic success.
Durham University reminds students: no separate scholarship application is required, but offer holders must email their sporting CV to Team Durham to be considered. The clock is ticking—elite international athletes looking to study in the UK should take action now before both rounds close.