When a student athlete sets their sights on Loughborough to study and train, they set themselves up for access to world-class facilities, coaches, and training environments. Yet, without support systems that are provided through scholarships and by expert staff, talented athletes may not be able to reach their full potential.
Sports Scholarships are designed to help athletes on performance programmes to achieve their potential – whether to win an individual medal at BUCS, reach a personal best, or head to an international competition such as the Olympic or Paralympic Games. They are funded in part by donations from generous alumni and friends, and students receive up to £5,000 of funding per year.
The scholarships enable students like Jess, who recently won her first BUCS individual title for the women’s 400m, to succeed. She said:
“The scholarship makes me feel truly valued and supported by the University. It not only offers a sense of recognition for my sport but also relieves much of the financial burden that comes with training and competing.
“It allows me to continue pursuing my sporting dreams while feeling incredibly encouraged and cared for.”
A Sports Scholarship allows Jess to focus on what matters most – excelling on the athletics track and studying for a degree in Media and Communication.
With guidance from Performance Lifestyle Coaches, Jess manages her demanding student athlete schedule while excelling at Loughborough and fulfilling her goals:
“Before coming to university, it was sometimes difficult to trust the process, but with Loughborough’s backing and through the scholarship programme, I now see my goals turning into reality – some of which have already been achieved.”
Thanking donors, Jess added:
“Within the athletics community, people come from a wide range of backgrounds and financial circumstances, so funding from generous donors truly makes a difference. It enables athletes like me to continue progressing in our sports, make full use of world-class facilities, and access invaluable opportunities and experiences. It genuinely means the world to us.”
In 2024, Loughborough-linked athletes took home 35 medals across both Paris games. A total of 19 medals were won at the Paralympic Games by athletes with an affiliation to Loughborough University – as the institution finished as a top 20 nation should it be reclassified as a country. This magnificent haul added to the 16 medals won earlier in the summer during the first phase of the Paris Games where Loughborough would have placed 16th if classified as a country.
Loughborough is now looking forward to the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in 2026.
Thank you to everyone who donates to Loughborough. The difference you are making is lifechanging to sports scholars.
Will you support a student on their journey to sporting success? On 2 December 2025, the University is holding Giving Day. It’s a day when you can choose to make a difference alongside others and select a cause that resonates with you. Look out for more information across our website, social media, and emails as we celebrate your impact.
