At a Glance
- Tasks: Join Durham University as a postgraduate student-athlete and compete in top sports.
- Company: Durham University, a world top-100 university and Sports University of the Year 2023.
- Benefits: Attractive scholarships, elite athlete support, and access to over 100 MA and MSc programmes.
- Other info: Experience a vibrant community and enhance your career while excelling in sports.
- Why this job: Combine your passion for sports with academic excellence at a leading UK university.
- Qualifications: NCAA playing experience and a minimum GPA of 3.0 required.
Durham University is seeking to recruit male and female postgraduate student‑athletes for the 2026‑27 academic year for various sports. Successful candidates will become part of Britain’s largest and most established International Postgraduate Scholar program and will compete for one of Britain’s leading Sports Universities, alongside studying at a world top‑100 university. Durham University has also recently been named The Times and Sunday Times Sports University of the Year for 2023, confirming the university’s commitment to continued sporting excellence.
For all of the sports listed below, our teams compete in BUCS (Britain’s NCAA equivalent). British Universities and College Sport’s (BUCS) eligibility regulations allow successful candidates to play for the University team regardless of the number of years played in the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA). The key sports in which we are recruiting for include:
- American Football – Men’s BUCS Champions, 2018
- Baseball – Men’s National University Baseball Champions Summer, 2018, 2024
- Basketball – Men’s BUCS Champions 2020; Women’s BUCS Champions 2020, 2024
- Fencing – Men’s BUCS Champions 2018-2022; Women’s BUCS Champions, 2020
- Golf – BUCS Championship Semi-Finalists, 2020
- Hockey – Men’s BUCS Champions 2018, 2020; Women’s BUCS Champions, 2020
- Lacrosse – Men’s BUCS Champions 2010-2017; Women’s Champions 2015-2020
- Rowing – BUCS Head Champions 2023
- Rugby – Men’s BUCS Champions 2020-2022; Women’s BUCS Champions, 2022
- Soccer – Men’s BUCS Champions 2023; Women’s BUCS Champions 2018, 2020
- Tennis – Men’s BUCS Champions 2020; Women’s BUCS Champions 2017
- Volleyball – Men’s BUCS Champions 2020, 2023, 2024; Women’s BUCS Champions 2020, 2022, 2023, 2024
- Water Polo – Men’s BUCS Champions 2017, 2023, 2024, 2025; Women’s BUCS Champions 2018, 2020, 2023
Masters qualifications are completed in one year in Britain – over 100 world‑class MA and MSc programs are available. The successful candidates will receive the following package:
- One of the most competitive and attractive scholarships available at a UK university
- Access to Durham’s Elite Athlete Support program, including strength and conditioning and physiotherapy
- Candidates can access Federal Aid from the US loans system.
The successful candidates must meet the following criteria:
- NCAA playing experience
- Undergraduate degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 or equivalent
In order to be considered for this opportunity, please send an email to teamdurham.postgraduate@durham.ac.uk including your:
- Resume/CV
- Sport
- Cumulative GPA
- Preferred Masters Course
Additional information on the Postgraduate Scholarships that we offer can be found on the following webpage: Durham University Postgraduate Scholarships.
Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Opportunities at Durham University employer: United Soccer Coaches
Durham University stands out as an exceptional employer for postgraduate student-athletes, offering a unique blend of academic excellence and sporting prowess. As part of Britain’s largest International Postgraduate Scholar programme, successful candidates will benefit from a competitive scholarship package, access to elite athlete support, and the opportunity to study at a world top-100 university while competing in a vibrant sports culture. With a commitment to fostering both academic and athletic growth, Durham University provides an enriching environment that empowers students to excel in their chosen fields.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Opportunities at Durham University
✨Tip Number 1
Get your game face on! When you’re applying for those postgraduate scholarships, make sure to showcase your athletic achievements and how they’ve shaped you as a person. We want to see your passion for sports and how it ties into your academic goals.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former scholarship recipients at Durham University. They can give you insider tips on what the selection committee is looking for and how to stand out. Plus, it’s a great way to build connections in the sports community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just send in your CV and call it a day! Make sure to personalise your application by highlighting specific experiences that relate to the sport you’re applying for. We love seeing candidates who take the time to connect their background with what we offer.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the scholarships and the application process right there. Let’s get you on the path to success!
We think you need these skills to ace Overseas Postgraduate Scholarship Opportunities at Durham University
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Standout CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your academic achievements, sports experience, and any relevant skills that set you apart. Keep it clear and concise, and don’t forget to tailor it to the scholarship you're applying for.
Show Your Passion for Sports:We want to see your enthusiasm for your sport! In your application, share your journey as an athlete, including any notable achievements or challenges you've overcome. This helps us understand your dedication and commitment to both sports and academics.
Be Clear and Direct in Your Email:When you send your application email, be straightforward. Include all the required information like your CV, sport, GPA, and preferred course right from the start. A well-structured email makes it easier for us to review your application.
Check Your Details:Before hitting send, double-check everything! Ensure your GPA is accurate, your CV is up-to-date, and there are no typos in your email. Attention to detail shows us you’re serious about this opportunity, and we appreciate that!
How to prepare for a job interview at United Soccer Coaches
✨Know Your Sport Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of your sport, including recent achievements and key players. This shows your passion and commitment, which is crucial for a scholarship at a top sports university like Durham.
✨Highlight Your Academic Achievements
Don’t forget to showcase your academic credentials, especially your GPA. Be ready to discuss how you’ve balanced your studies with your sporting commitments, as this demonstrates your time management skills and dedication.
✨Prepare for Common Questions
Anticipate questions about your experience in the NCAA and how it has prepared you for competing at Durham. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident and articulate during the interview.
✨Show Enthusiasm for the Programme
Express genuine interest in Durham University’s Elite Athlete Support programme. Research what they offer and be prepared to discuss how you would benefit from and contribute to the programme, making it clear that you’re excited about the opportunity.
