Apply now for your scholarship to study at the World Academy of Sports

For the second year in succession, pentathletes from all member federations of UIPM have been invited to apply for scholarships with the World Academy of Sports (WAoS).

The Online Postgraduate Certificate (PGCert), delivered by the University of London (GBR), can be completed at the student’s own pace in up to five years.

One full scholarship worth £3,675 (€4,280) is available, with another 10 athletes set to benefit from a 25% subsidy worth £918.75 (€1,070) through a memorandum of understanding between WAoS and UIPM.

National Federations have been advised that athletes who wish to apply to the PGCert must have an existing undergraduate degree or at least five’ years relevant work experience and professional references. They must also have an English language level of 6.5, with 6.0 in the written test, in the IELTS system or an equivalent proficiency certification.

Those wishing to enrol for the PGCert must apply to UIPM by July 28, 2021 and the opportunity applies to the September 2021 intake.

Two undergraduates who secured the 2021 scholarships and are currently studying alongside more than 100 students from 50 countries and 19 sports, Georgia Hannam of Great Britain and Dennis Smirnov of Latvia, recommended that fellow athletes take up the opportunity.

Hannam (GBR) said: “So far in my studies I have learnt a great deal on what it takes to ensure the operations of a sports organisation run efficiently.

“Learning about the barriers and possible opportunities that can be created just makes me want to get involved and help more people get active and involved in sport.

“It is definitely an opportunity I wouldn’t miss. It has been an amazing journey learning the behind-the-scenes planning that takes place in sports organisations and provides opportunities to open new career paths for the future.”

Smirnov (LAT) added: “Studying in the University of London opens wide range of opportunities in the future life. The studies are full of interesting information and you can do it at any convenient time in a comfort of your own home.”

In due course UIPM will share information about the Online Athlete Certificate, which is available to a greater number of students.

The provision of educational scholarships is part of UIPM’s commitment to the athletes through the Athletes Centered Programme (ACP). WAoS offers a fully online educational pathway from high school to Postgraduate education.

UIPM President Dr Klaus Schormann said: “On behalf of the UIPM Executive Board I am delighted that we are once again in a position to offer educational opportunities to athletes linked to the MOU between UIPM and WAoS.

“Our sport is closely linked to the academic world and focused strongly on education. Many pentathletes have achieved high success in their careers based on qualifications obtained alongside their sporting commitments and their intellectual capacity.

“I strongly encourage all eligible athletes to apply for this wonderful opportunity.”

All applications to the WAoS scholarship scheme must be submitted by a UIPM National Federation (NF). Interested NFs which should send a note of interest to projects@pentathlon.org.