With its dedicated esports scholarships, the University of Roehampton is leading a new trend in higher education, supporting students who excel in competitive gaming while they work towards academic qualifications.
Up to £2,000 available for competitive gamers at this UK university
By awarding esports scholarships to both undergraduate and postgraduate students, the University of Roehampton extends financial assistance to those displaying a strong commitment both in the classroom and in gaming competitions. To date, over 100 students have received this financial support, demonstrating Roehampton’s commitment to embracing the rapidly expanding international appeal of esports.
Distinctive financial rewards for aspiring esports players
Unlike recreational play, esports centers on organized and highly competitive events, frequently featuring live and streamed audiences. Scholars represent Roheampton by competing in weekly tournaments and larger public events, upholding performance standards in various popular games. The university’s selection process also acknowledges students who actively contribute to the gaming community, such as Twitch streamers with notable followings.
Registrar Mark Ellul highlights the progressive purpose behind the scholarship, saying, “This scholarship is about recognising talent in a field that has a growing popularity both around the world and among our students.” The award amount started at £1,500 but increased to £2,000, reflecting the growing success and engagement of Roehampton’s esports team.
Past recipient Cameron Dray offered personal insight into the difference the award made, explaining, “This money was crucial to me as it gave me the opportunity to study in a very expensive city without the need for part-time work,” and praised the clear communication of scholarship expectations during his application.
Addressing students’ financial struggles
These scholarships provide timely support for students in the UK, where the typical graduate now faces debts of more than £47,500, as cited by government student finance figures. The additional financial aid offered through esports programs can help ease this heavy debt load.
Thomas Cole—recognized as Pac in the esports community and known for his proficiency in Trackmania—views such targeted scholarships as an encouraging development, commenting, “If it doesn’t let the academic side suffer, then I think being offered something like that really spurs on people to be better in gaming.” Cole notes that reducing financial worries can motivate students to excel in their chosen gaming disciplines alongside their studies.
Even though scholarships are available for more than just academic or athletic merit, many students remain unaware of them. According to Tom Allingham, a finance adviser at Save the Student, “There is a lot of funding that goes unclaimed because students don’t know that they’re eligible for it.” His team works to raise awareness by frequently highlighting such opportunities, revealing just how many resources go unnoticed.
Raising awareness to unlock more opportunities
Cameron Dray encourages new students to look into all possible sources of funding, pointing out that numerous scholarships and bursaries are overlooked. “Many of these funds are available to more students than they realise, and everyone should be taking full advantage,” he advised.
This sports scholarship initiative at Roehampton exemplifies a broader shift in how universities are recognizing talent, particularly as it increasingly emerges in digital arenas. As higher education continues to address financial barriers, innovative support like this is positioned to grow in importance going forward.
For further information, explore in-depth coverage of what esports students do beyond gaming.