As families across the country prepare for the cost of a university education, experts warn that millions of pounds in scholarships and bursaries are never claimed, often because students simply do not know the help exists. One relatively new option is now available to gamers, with the University of Roehampton offering esports scholarships worth up to £2,000 to undergraduates and postgraduates who can demonstrate both academic commitment and video-gaming skill. More than 100 such awards have already been made.
Esports, or competitive video gaming, differs from casual play in that it involves spectators and high-stakes tournaments, much like traditional sports. Roehampton’s esports coordinator, Pedro Aguiar, said the scholarship recognises talent in a field that has grown rapidly in popularity worldwide and among the university’s own students. Successful applicants are expected to compete in weekly university tournaments and represent the institution at in-person events. While minimum rankings in major games are normally required, those who fall just short may still be considered if they meet other criteria, such as building a large following on streaming platforms like Twitch.
Former esports scholar Cameron Dray said he learned about Roehampton through the scholarship, after being inspired by similar initiatives at American universities. He noted that the award was initially £1,500 but was raised to £2,000 as the team’s performance and popularity grew. “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,” he said, adding that the accompanying requirements were transparent and reasonable. He encouraged students to apply for every scholarship and bursary available, noting that many funds are open to more people than they realise.
Thomas Cole, an esports player who specialises in the racing game Trackmania, said such scholarships reduce financial stress and can spur students on academically. “Uni students being paid to play a game alongside doing their studies, it’s definitely cracking,” he said, while stressing that it should not come at the expense of academic work. Tom Allingham, a student money expert at the personal finance site Save the Student, regularly advises new students to investigate what their university offers. “There is a lot of funding that goes unclaimed because students don’t know that they’re eligible for it,” he said, adding that extra funding is available for many different reasons.
With the average graduate in England leaving university with debts of more than £47,500, even a modest scholarship can make a meaningful difference. Experts say students should actively research scholarship options before and during their studies, as unclaimed pots of money can help reduce reliance on loans and part-time work.