Our game-changing
Scholarships
Apply for one of our January 2026 scholarships now!
The Global Institute of Sport (GIS) is proud to offer an extensive suite of scholarships designed to recognise ambition, leadership, and impact across every corner of the sporting world.
From scholarships that support elite athletes and entrepreneurs, to those that champion diversity, innovation, and community impact, our awards reflect the values that define GIS – Entrepreneurship, Partnership, Impact, Curiosity, and Courage (EPICC).
Whether you’re launching a sport-related business, shaping inclusion in football, leading wellbeing projects in your community, or preparing to transition from athlete to industry professional, GIS offers tailored opportunities to help you thrive.
What we offer
The Global Institute of Sport offers a diverse range of scholarships across our global network. Each award celebrates excellence, leadership, and innovation in sport — from empowering future founders and elite athletes, to driving diversity, inclusion, and community impact.
Our scholarships fall into three broad areas:
- Global Scholarships – open to all GIS undergraduate and postgraduate applicants, recognising leadership, creativity, and positive change in sport. Plus elite athlete scholarships.
- Regional & Changemaker Scholarships – supporting students making an impact within their local sporting communities across India, Africa, and Europe.
- Campus-Specific Scholarships – exclusive to GIS campuses in Sydney and Brussels, and key partner pathways such as Minerva Virtual Academy.
Every scholarship offers the chance to receive financial support, industry mentorship, and access to the GIS network, helping you make a meaningful difference to the future of sport.
Aligned with our EPICC values
Each GIS scholarship is rooted in one or more of our EPICC Values, the guiding principles that shape the Global Institute of Sport community. Together, they reflect the spirit of our students and the transformative impact they have across the sports industry.
- Entrepreneurship – We believe innovative ideas to drive the sports industry forward
- Partnership – We believe in our commitment to our students, alumni and friends
- Impact – We believe in changing the game and unleashing excellence
- Curiosity – We believe in diversity of thought and lifelong learning
- Courage – We believe in bold, passionate
Each scholarship embodies these values in action, recognising not only academic and athletic achievement, but also the drive to make a genuine difference in the future of sport.
January 2026 Scholarships
This scholarship seeks to support ambitious students who have either already launched their own sport-related businesses and would like to continue developing it or have a business idea they would like to pitch for development.
Whether developing new technology for athletes, creating innovative fan engagement platforms, founding academies, or designing apparel brands, this award recognises the entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of sport’s future economy. We’re looking for visionary ideas that combine creativity, purpose, and impact
Included: £1,500 bursary award; Mentorship from a sport entrepreneur
Eligibility: Must hold a GIS offer; Present project/product proposal or evidence of entrepreneurial activity.
Application Guidance: Provide a video outlining the below points and a supporting statement that should clearly outline:
- Your business idea
- Why this is a viable business/idea – what issue does it address; what gaps does it fill?
- How you would look to utilise the bursary fund for the benefit of your business/idea
This scholarship fits into our Entrepreneurship value, which reflects our belief in using innovative ideas to drive the sports industry forward.
Supporting entrepreneurial students developing innovative projects or products that advance women’s participation, representation, or experience in sport. Whether you’re launching a new training tool, designing inclusive sportswear, or building a grassroots initiative to empower girls through sport – this award is for you. We’re looking for visionary ideas that combine creativity, purpose, and impact.
Included: £1,500 bursary award; Mentorship from a sport entrepreneur
Eligibility: Must hold a GIS offer; Present project/product proposal or evidence of entrepreneurial activity.
Application Guidance: Provide a video outlining the below points and a supporting statement that should clearly outline:
- Your business idea
- Why this is a viable business/idea – what issue does it address; what gaps does it fill within women’s sport.
- How you would look to utilise the bursary fund for the benefit of your business/idea
This scholarship fits into our Entrepreneurship value, which reflects our belief in using innovative ideas to drive the sports industry forward.
Supporting students who use sport to promote mental health, physical activity, and holistic wellbeing in communities.
This scholarship is for those who recognise sport’s power to improve lives – whether through inclusive fitness programmes, mental health advocacy, community sport initiatives, or research into wellbeing through physical activity. It rewards students who are using sport to foster healthier, more connected communities at a grassroots/participation level.
Included: 15% reduction in tuition fee; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Applicants must hold a GIS offer demonstrate measurable impact in promoting wellbeing through sport – this could be through a project, programme, campaign, or research.
Application Guidance: Provide evidence to demonstrate measurable impact in promoting wellbeing through sport – this could be through a project, programme, campaign, or research.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
For students who explore sport beyond borders – culturally, geographically, or creatively. This bursary recognises students who have engaged deeply with diverse sporting cultures, introduced new or emerging sports to their communities, or demonstrated a passion for cross-cultural exchange in sport. It celebrates curiosity, adaptability, and a global mindset.
Included: Opportunity to share your story through GIS communications and media; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme; GIS Global Summit ticket (excluding travel)
Eligibility: Holding an offer for a GIS undergraduate or postgraduate course.
Application Guidance: Provide evidence of cross-cultural engagement or pioneering work in new or underrepresented sports – this could include travel, community initiatives, or personal projects.
This scholarship fits into our Curiosity value, which reflects our belief in diversity of thought and lifelong learning.
This scholarship is designed to support aspiring leaders from all corners of the globe who are ready to make their mark in the sports industry.
We want to hear how you feel you are ready to make a difference to the sports industry.
Included: 25% tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Must be holding an offer on any online or on campus undergraduate or postgraduate GIS degree
Application Guidance: Your application should demonstrate:
- Your skills and experience to date
- Your future ambitions to impact the sports industry: you may identify an ongoing theme you have a commitment to resolve in the industry.
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
The Women in Sport Scholarship is dedicated to empowering exceptional female candidates at GIS who aspire to become leaders in the sports industry.
Designed for women committed to enhancing opportunities and access for females in sports, this scholarship supports the next generation of influential leaders and change-makers.
Included: 25% reduction on your tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Female student holding an offer on any online or on campus undergraduate or postgraduate GIS degree.
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
Celebrating students who champion inclusivity and representation in sport.
This scholarship supports individuals who are from underrepresented communities themselves or those who are actively promoting diversity and inclusion in the sports industry.
Included: 25% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme; GIS Global Sports Summit ticket (excluding travel)
Eligibility: Demonstrated commitment to diversity initiatives in sports; Hold an offer for a GIS undergraduate or postgraduate course.
Application Guidance: Provide evidence of commitment to diversity initiatives in sports. For example, previous initiatives, training, volunteering.
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
For ambitious Indian students with the potential to lead and innovate in the sports industry. It is designed for individuals who are passionate about sport and eager to contribute to its evolution on either a local level (e.g. in Indian communities) or on an international scale – whether through business, media, coaching, technology, or community development.
This opportunity is ideal for students who envision themselves as future leaders, ready to bring fresh ideas, cultural insight, and impactful change to the sports industry.
Included: 25% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme.
Eligibility: Scholarship applications are welcomed from students of Indian nationality and/or live there, who hold an offer to online or on campus degree programmes
Application Guidance: Applicants must demonstrate their commitment and experience in growing Indian sport at a local or national level and outline how a GIS degree will amplify their impact.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
For ambitious African students with the potential to lead and innovate in the sports industry. It is designed for individuals who are passionate about sport and eager to contribute to its evolution on either a local level (e.g. in African communities) or on an international scale – whether through business, media, coaching, technology, or community development.
This opportunity is ideal for students who envision themselves as future leaders, ready to bring fresh ideas, cultural insight, and impactful change to the sports industry.
Included: 25% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Scholarship applications are welcomed from students of African nationality and/or live there, who hold an offer to online or on campus degree programmes
Application Guidance: Applicants must demonstrate their commitment and experience in growing African sport at a local or national level and outline how a GIS degree will amplify their impact.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
For ambitious students with the potential to lead and innovate in the sports industry. It is designed for individuals who are passionate about sport and eager to contribute to its evolution on either a local level (e.g. in UK communities) or on an international scale – whether through business, media, coaching, technology, or community development.
This opportunity is ideal for students who envision themselves as future leaders, ready to bring fresh ideas, cultural insight, and impactful change to the sports industry.
Included: 25% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Scholarship applications are welcomed from students of British nationality and/or live there, who hold an offer to online or on campus degree programmes
Application Guidance: Applicants must demonstrate their commitment and experience in growing sport at a local or national level and outline how a GIS degree will amplify their impact.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
For students of South Asian heritage or those actively promoting greater representation of South Asians in football.
Included: 15% reduction in tuition fees; Mentorship throughout your degree with broadcaster and passionate advocate for South Asian representation in football, Dev Trehan.
Eligibility: Holding an offer for a GIS undergraduate or postgraduate course.
Application Guidance: Your application should clearly reflect your participation in, or commitment to, South Asian diversity initiatives in sports.
This scholarship fits into our Partnership value, which reflects our belief in a strong commitment to our students, alumni, and wider community.
Awarded to outstanding GIS Sydney students who demonstrate exceptional academic potential, leadership qualities, and a strong commitment to shaping the future of the global sports industry. This scholarship supports driven individuals who aspire to make a lasting impact in sports management, business, and leadership. Recipients are selected for their ability to inspire others, their dedication to excellence, and their vision for contributing to the evolving world of sport.
Included: $4,500 tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme; Ticket to attend the GIS Australia Sports Summit (travel excluded)
Eligibility: Domestic student; Hold an offer for the Master of Sports Analytics, Master of International Sports Business, or the Combined Degree, either full-time or part-time for the January 2026 intake at GIS Sydney; Must have submitted a scholarship application by the deadline of 9th November 2025
Click here for more information and to apply
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
For elite athletes in Australia ready to transition into sport business or analytics.
This scholarship supports current or former athletes who are pursuing postgraduate study at GIS Sydney and preparing for a career in the sports industry.
Included: $14,000 tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Domestic student (Australia); Participation at a national or regional level, supported by demonstration of career transition actions and goals in scholarship application; Hold an offer for the Master of Sports Analytics, Master of International Sports Business, or the Combined Degree, either full-time or part-time for the January 2026 intake at GIS Sydney; Must have submitted a scholarship application by the deadline of 9th November 2025
Application Guidance: Provide evidence of participation at an academy, national or regional level.
Click here for more information and to apply
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
For GIS Sydney course applicants who are actively shaping the local and/or global sports industry. Whether you’re building grassroots programmes, launching sport-tech solutions, or advocating for inclusion and access – this scholarship is designed to support your journey as a changemaker.
Included: $7,000 tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme; Ticket to attend the GIS Australia Sports Summit (excluding travel)
Eligibility: Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander student; Domestic student; Must meet the entry requirements and hold an offer for the Master of Sports Analytics, Master of International Sports Business, or the Combined Degree, either full-time or part-time for the January 2026 intake at GIS Sydney; Must have submitted a scholarship application by the deadline of 9th November 2025
Click here for more information and to apply
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
For exceptional female candidates at the Global Institute of Sport who aspire to become leaders in the sports industry.
Scholarship includes:
- $7,000 tuition fee discount
- Mentorship with a sports industry leader from the GIS network
- Ticket to attend a GIS Global Sports Summit of your choice
Eligibility criteria:
- Female student
- Domestic student
- Must meet the entry requirements and hold an offer for the Master of Sports Analytics, Master of International Sports Business, or the Combined Degree, either full-time or part-time for the January 2026 intake at GIS Sydney
- Must have submitted a scholarship application by the deadline of 9th November 2025
The International Excellence Scholarship 2026 has been established to attract high-performing students to study at the University of Newcastle. This scholarship acknowledges applicants with a strong academic background and provides an ongoing incentive for continued academic achievement.
Scholarship includes:
- 20% tuition fee discount
Eligibility criteria:
- International student
- Must meet the entry requirements and hold an offer for the Master of Sports Analytics, Master of International Sports Business, or the Combined Degree, either full-time or part-time for the January 2026 intake at GIS Sydney
- No need to apply – the International Excellence Scholarships will be awarded to applicants who receive an offer to study in an eligible program and commence study with the University in Trimester 1, 2026 and beyond.
A prestigious scholarship for students who aspire to shape the future of football across Europe and beyond. This award supports individuals with a passion for the sport and a drive to lead in areas such as football business, strategy, media, and innovation. Located in the heart of European football, GIS Brussels offers a unique platform for students to engage with the global football ecosystem. The scholarship is designed for those who demonstrate exceptional potential to contribute to the sport’s growth – whether through club development, commercial partnerships, fan engagement, or policy reform.
Included: 15% reduction in Master’s tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Holding an offer for the Postgraduate Diploma in International Football Business at GIS Brussels campus.
Application Guidance: Applications should clearly articulate a particular interest in the European football industry and applicants may wish to identify one ‘issue’ they are aware of in the region that they have ambitions to address.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
Supporting current student-athletes and academy players committed to continuing their academic journey at undergraduate level.
This scholarship is designed for individuals competing at academy, national, or regional level, who are pursuing a degree in sports management, coaching, or performance analysis. It recognises the dedication required to balance elite sport with academic ambition and supports athletes in their transition toward a career in the sports industry.
Included: From a 25% tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Participation at an academy, national or regional level, supported by demonstration of career transition actions and goals. Hold an offer for the undergraduate online course.
Application Guidance: Provide evidence of participation at an academy, national or regional level.
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
Empowering current and former athletes to transition into leadership roles in sport.
This scholarship supports elite athletes who are ready to pivot from competition to a career in sports management, coaching, or analysis. It provides the tools, mentorship, and financial support needed to thrive academically and professionally.
Included: From a 25% tuition fee discount; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Participation at a national or regional level, supported by demonstration of career transition actions and goals. Hold an offer for any postgraduate course.
Application Guidance: Provide evidence of participation at an academy, national or regional level.
This scholarship fits into our Courage value, which reflects our belief in bold, passionate leadership and a focus on success.
The Game Changer Scholarship, launched in collaboration with The Player, is designed to support aspiring sports professionals in making their mark both on and off the pitch. This scholarship offers an exceptional package, including up to 25% tuition fee coverage with GIS, a discount on The Player’s Elite package, branded kit, and invaluable mentorship from Steven Taylor, ex-Premier League footballer and co-founder of The Player. Through this opportunity, applicants have the chance to advance their education in sports, gain industry insights, and build a pathway toward a fulfilling career in the sports world.
Included: 25% tuition fee discount with GIS; 25% Elite package discount with The Player; GIS/The Player branded kit; Mentorship by co-founder of The Player/ex-premier league footballer Steven Taylor
Eligibility: Must be holding an accepted offer for 2026 intake; Must be able to take part in The Player’s Elite Package in the UAE whilst studying your GIS degree
Application Guidance: Applicants must be able to provide a CV outlining their playing experience/expertise; Applicants must be able to provide a reference from a previous coaching/academy to support their application; Applicants are encouraged to provide supporting evidence such as footage, clips or viewable links
This scholarship fits into our Partnership value, which reflects our belief in a strong commitment to our students, alumni, and wider community.
For current student athletes of MVA transitioning from online high school study with MVA to online UG study with GIS whilst continuing with their athletic commitments.
Included: 50% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Current student athlete of MVA holding an offer for a GIS Undergraduate degree for January 2026 entry and participating at a national or regional level
This scholarship fits into our Partnership value, which reflects our belief in a strong commitment to our students, alumni, and wider community.
Offered in partnership with Women in Soccer, this scholarship is designed to empower and support a future leader in the sports industry who is passionate about driving change and promoting gender equity. Open to members of the Women in Soccer network, the scholarship provides a transformative opportunity to further your education while gaining access to one of the most dynamic events in global sport.
Included: 50% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme; Access to a GIS Global Sports Summit.
Eligibility: Must be a current member of Women in Soccer – you can sign up now for FREE! Must be holding an offer for any online or on-campus undergraduate or postgraduate GIS degree
Application Guidance: Your application should clearly reflect your commitment to advancing opportunities for women in soccer/football and your drive to make a lasting impact in the industry
This scholarship fits into our Partnership value, which reflects our belief in a strong commitment to our students, alumni, and wider community.
The Global Impact Scholarship, created in partnership with Think Pacific, offers students the chance to make a lasting difference through sports and cultural exchange.
This scholarship includes a funded placement with Think Pacific in Fiji, Bali, or remotely, valued up to £2500.
Ideal for those passionate about global engagement and community impact, the scholarship empowers students to develop their skills while contributing to meaningful projects abroad
Included: GIS funded placement with student volunteering project organisation Think Pacific in Fiji, Bali or remote worth up to £2500; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Must hold an offer on any online or on campus undergraduate or postgraduate GIS degree. Successful scholar must be able to take part in a student volunteering project with Think Pacific whilst studying your GIS degree.
Application Guidance: Your application should address your passion for global development through sport and a commitment to supporting diverse communities through community impact initiatives.
This scholarship fits into our Curiosity value, which reflects our belief in diversity of thought and lifelong learning.
Celebrating an outstanding partnership between GEMS Schools for Life and the Global Institute of Sport (GIS), this scholarship recognises the power of education and sport to shape tomorrow’s leaders.
At GEMS, their goal is to give every student the best chance of success preparing them for university, higher education, and the world of work, while continuing to open doors and create opportunities long into the future. Through GIS, that future extends into the heart of the global sports industry where ambition meets expertise, and education fuels real-world impact.
Included: 50% tuition fee discount
Eligibility: Must be holding an accepted offer for a 2026 intake, on either a GIS undergraduate or postgraduate programme. To qualify for the discount and apply for the scholarship, applicants must be from a GEMS school.
Application Guidance: Applicants must be able to provide evidence that they are from a GEMS school, with additional confirmation from the school itself.
For outstanding GIS and partner university alumni who is committed to making a positive impact in the global sports industry.
Included: 30% reduction in tuition fees; Access to exclusive GIS Scholars mentorship programme
Eligibility: Alumni of GIS, UEL, UCFB, VUB, STU, UoN, demonstrated positive impact in the global sports industry.
This scholarship fits into our Impact value, which reflects our belief in changing the game and unleashing excellence in sport.
How to apply & eligibility
To be eligible, you must:
- Be a current GIS applicant for a January 2026 undergraduate or postgraduate intake.
- Have accepted your offer of study by the stated scholarship deadline.
- Complete all application requirements, including any EPICC Values Video and supporting documents.
Applications close 5 January 2026 unless otherwise specified.
For guidance or assistance, contact study@gis.sport
Frequently Asked Questions
Our scholarships are for anyone committed to making the most of their time during their studies with us. We are passionate about increasing access to postgraduate study and helping you develop your career in the sports industry. So whether you are progressing directly from your undergraduate degree, have been working in the sports industry or an entirely different industry or are a competing or retired athlete looking to develop your career off the pitch – we have a scholarship for you!
You should apply for a scholarship as soon as GIS have opened the application window. You must be holding an offer as well as accepted this, in order for your scholarship application to be fully considered.
The scholarships team will notify you as soon as possible, the review process can be lengthy but you will be informed as quickly as possible.
The money towards your tuition fees will be applied as a deduction at the point of enrolment.
You cannot hold both a graduate/alumni tuition fee discount from GIS and a scholarship with us.
Our scholarships and the government loans for UK students are unrelated.
This includes:
- Accommodation at a city centre hotel (twin rooms – sharing with another attendee)
- ALL Summit activities – match tickets, tours, coach travel to venues where appropriate
The summit ticket does not include:
- Flights
- Food & drink / general spending money
- Visa
- Travel insurance
- Public transport costs
Your industry mentor will use the benefit of their knowledge, experience and networks to guide and advise you in your personal and professional growth throughout your time with us and likely beyond. At the start of your mentorship we will support you in getting to know each other and agreeing how and how often you will meet. Mentorships are hugely beneficial to students as they are developing their career as they help you grow your skills, make better decisions and gain new perspectives on your life and career.
Depending on the nature of the work placement and the organisation, you will typically spend a defined period of time working in a role or a project within that organisation whilst being supported by a key member of staff. This could be for a period of time each week for the duration of your degree or it could be over a shorter period of time. We will support you in preparing you for the experience and throughout your time with us.
As part of your scholarship application, you’ll need to create a short video (maximum 3 minutes) showing who you are and how you connect with our EPICC Values — Entrepreneurship, Partnership, Impact, Curiosity, and Courage.
Use your video to tell your story: explain how these values appear in your studies, work, community, or personal experiences. Be authentic and creative — you can speak directly to camera, add visuals, or use storytelling to bring your journey to life.
Remember, this isn’t about producing a perfect video — it’s about showing your genuine alignment with the EPICC Values and why you’d be a great fit for the GIS community.
Tips to help your video stand out:
- Be authentic: Let your personality shine through.
- Be creative: Include visuals or examples that express who you are.
- Be confident: Inspire us with your journey and values.
- Be clear: Focus on quality over quantity — choose what matters most.
When your video is ready, upload it along with your scholarship application and ensure it’s accessible via a shared link or file upload as specified in your application form.