Are you an undergraduate footballer looking to compete at a high level while pursuing a degree? The Trendell Sports Scholarship, offered by the University of Bath, UK, provides a £1,000 annual award to support talented athletes participating in the British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) league, including football.
This prestigious scholarship, named after a notable figure in university sports, offers financial support, access to world-class facilities, and professional coaching.
Open to both UK and international students eligible for a UK student visa, this ultimate guide covers everything you need to know about the Trendell Sports Scholarship UK, including eligibility, application steps, and career benefits. Kick off your football and academic journey in 2026!
What Is the Trendell Sports Scholarship?
The Trendell Sports Scholarship is a financial award provided by the University of Bath to support undergraduate athletes who excel in sports, including football, and compete in BUCS competitions.
Valued at £1,000 per year, the scholarship can be used for training, equipment, competition fees, or living expenses, enabling students to focus on their academic and sporting goals. The University of Bath is renowned for its sports programs, with facilities like the Sports Training Village, used by Olympic and professional athletes.
The scholarship is open to undergraduates at the University of Bath, making it accessible to both domestic and international students. This scholarship is ideal for footballers seeking to balance competitive sport with academic excellence.
Why Choose the Trendell Sports Scholarship?
The Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026 offers significant benefits for undergraduate footballers:
- Financial Support: Receive £1,000 annually to cover training, equipment, travel, or living costs.
- World-Class Facilities: Train at the University of Bath’s Sports Training Village, featuring FIFA-standard pitches and advanced fitness centers.
- BUCS Competition: Compete in the BUCS football league, gaining exposure to scouts and professional networks.
- Academic Flexibility: Pursue any undergraduate degree with tailored support to balance sport and studies.
- International Access: Open to international students with a UK Student Visa, fostering a diverse football community.
This scholarship is perfect for ambitious footballers aiming to excel in sport while building a strong academic foundation for future careers.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify for the Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Academic Status: Be enrolled or accepted as an undergraduate at the University of Bath.
- Football Ability: Demonstrate competitive football experience at a regional, national, or BUCS level, assessed through trials or performance records.
- Age: Typically 18–23 years old, though mature students may be considered.
- International Students: Hold or be eligible for a UK Student Visa, as outlined on the UK Government website.
- BUCS Commitment: Actively participate in BUCS football competitions and represent the University of Bath.
The scholarship welcomes both male and female players, with a focus on supporting diverse talent. International applicants must provide proof of university acceptance and visa eligibility.
Key Details of the Trendell Sports Scholarship
The table below summarizes essential information about the scholarship:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Institution | University of Bath, Bath |
| Location | Bath, UK |
| Eligibility | Undergraduates, competitive football experience, UK Student Visa (if intl.) |
| Value | £1,000 per year |
| Application Period | January–March 2026 |
| Program Duration | 1–4 years (duration of undergraduate degree) |
How to Apply for the Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026
Securing the Trendell Sports Scholarship requires careful preparation. Follow these steps to apply:
- Apply to the University of Bath: Submit an undergraduate application via UCAS, ensuring acceptance into a degree program.
- Complete the Scholarship Application: Access the sports scholarship application form on the University of Bath website, available from January 2026.
- Submit Supporting Documents: Provide a CV, a personal statement detailing your football achievements and academic goals, and references from coaches or teachers. International students should include visa status or eligibility proof.
- Demonstrate Football Ability: Submit match footage, BUCS performance records, or attend a trial at the Sports Training Village in Bath to showcase skills like technical ability and teamwork.
- Apply Early: Applications typically open in January and close in March 2026, so submit by early January to meet deadlines.
Pro Tip: Highlight your BUCS or club-level experience in your personal statement to demonstrate your commitment. International students should initiate their UK Student Visa application early to ensure compliance.
Benefits of the Trendell Sports Scholarship
The Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026 offers a range of advantages:
- Financial Relief: £1,000 annually helps cover training, equipment, or living expenses, reducing financial stress.
- Elite Training: Train at the Sports Training Village, a facility used by Olympic and professional athletes, with experienced coaches.
- BUCS Exposure: Compete in the BUCS football league, attracting scouts from professional and semi-professional clubs.
- Academic Support: Receive guidance to balance degree studies with training and competition schedules.
- Career Pathways: Build skills and connections for careers in coaching, sports science, or professional football.
Success Story: A Trendell Scholarship Recipient
Meet Olivia, a 2024 Trendell Sports Scholarship recipient studying sports science at the University of Bath. As an undergraduate, Olivia used her £1,000 award to fund travel for BUCS matches and new football gear.
Her performances in the BUCS women’s football league earned her recognition from a Women’s Super League scout, and she credits the scholarship’s facilities and coaching for her progress. Olivia plans to pursue a career in sports coaching, leveraging her scholarship experience.
FAQs About the Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026
Who is eligible for the Trendell Sports Scholarship 2026?
Undergraduates at the University of Bath with competitive football experience (regional, national, or BUCS level) are eligible. International students need a UK Student Visa.
What does the scholarship cover?
The scholarship provides £1,000 annually for training, equipment, competition fees, or living costs.
When is the application deadline for 2026?
Applications typically open in January and close in March 2026. Check the University of Bath website for exact dates.
Can international students apply for the scholarship?
Yes, international students with a valid UK Student Visa or eligibility to apply for one can participate.
What are the benefits of the scholarship?
The scholarship offers financial support, elite training, BUCS competition, and academic flexibility for footballers.
Start Your Football Journey with the Trendell Sports Scholarship
The Trendell Sports Scholarship is a fantastic opportunity for undergraduate footballers to excel in sport and academics at the University of Bath.
With £1,000 in annual funding, access to world-class facilities, and BUCS competition, this scholarship sets you on the path to success. Ready to apply? Visit the University of Bath website to start your application for 2026!
Explore more at our sports scholarship resources to score your future in football.