Durham University is proud to announce the Global Sports Award International Scholarship for the academic year 2026/2027. This prestigious scholarship is designed to support outstanding European and International undergraduate students who demonstrate excellence in high-performance sport. Successful applicants will receive up to £5,000 per year towards tuition fees, depending on their sporting performance level.
Durham University was founded in 1832, making it one of the oldest universities in England after Oxford and Cambridge. Located in the historic city of Durham, it combines a long academic tradition with a modern approach to research and education. The university is known for its beautiful campus, collegiate system, and strong emphasis on both academic excellence and community life. Over the years, Durham has built a global reputation for high-quality teaching, research, and student experience.
Table of Briefs
| Scholarship Name | Global Sports Award: International Scholarship |
|---|---|
| University | Durham University |
| Level of Study | Undergraduate Full-time, On-Campus |
| Entry Year | 2026 Entry Only |
| Amount | Up to £5,000 per year based on sport performance |
| Number of Awards | Up to 20 |
| Eligible Regions | International & European Preference for USA, Canada, South Africa |
| Exclusions | Foundation and Law Programmes |
| Application Deadline | Round 1: 30 January 2026; Round 2: 15 May 2026 |
Background
The Global Sports Award aims to attract and support talented athletes from around the world who aspire to pursue undergraduate studies at Durham University. The scholarship acknowledges the dedication, discipline, and excellence required to compete in high-performance sport. It also encourages recipients to contribute actively to Team Durham and the wider university sporting community.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the Global Sports Award, applicants must:
-
Be assessed by Durham University as having European or International fee status.
-
Be self-funding not sponsored by an employer, government, or private body.
-
Demonstrate the ability to compete in high-performance sport.
-
Agree to actively participate in university or college sport at Durham.
-
Be offer holders for a full-time undergraduate course at Durham University excluding Foundation or Law programmes.
-
Accept their UCAS offer by the specified deadlines.
Benefits
-
Value: Up to £5,000 per academic year.
-
Duration: Standard length of the chosen programme excluding placement or study abroad years.
-
Form: Tuition fee discount no cash alternative.
-
Award Discretion: Decisions made by the International Office and Team Durham are final.
-
Commitments: Scholars must engage in marketing, outreach, and events such as open days, webinars, or act as student representatives.
Application Process
Unlike most scholarships, there’s no formal application form.
Here’s what you need to do:
-
Apply to Durham University through UCAS for a 2026 entry course.
-
Receive and accept a conditional or unconditional offer.
-
Submit your sporting CV to Dan Armstrong at daniel.armstrong@durham.ac.uk if you have not already been in touch with Team Durham.
-
Ensure your application and communication are completed before the selection deadlines.
Important Dates
Application Deadline: 1st Round: 30 January 2026 and 2nd Round: 15 May 2026.
Conclusion
The Global Sports Award at Durham University is an exceptional opportunity for international students who excel both in the classroom and on the field. It not only provides financial support but also integrates athletes into one of the UK’s most dynamic sporting communities.