More international student athletes are actively choosing the UK as a credible and attractive alternative to the US college system, drawn by a combination of high-quality education, competitive university sport, shorter degree durations, and clear postgraduate pathways.

From undergraduate applicants planning years in advance, to postgraduate student athletes transitioning from the NCAA and NAIA systems, the UK university model is increasingly recognised as a destination where athletes do not have to compromise between academic ambition and sporting performance.

While Play Overseas and The Student Sport Company operate with different audiences and entry points, both brands are built around the same core mission: to help talented student athletes from around the world access meaningful opportunities to study, compete, and progress within the UK university system.

Together, these placements span a wide range of sports, academic levels, and nationalities, reflecting the depth of opportunity that exists across UK higher education and university sport.

Harry Newton, Director of International Sporting Solutions, said:

As demand continues to grow, our focus remains on working closely with student athletes, families, schools, academies, and university partners to ensure the right academic and sporting fit for every individual we support.

With future intakes already underway, we look forward to building on this milestone and continuing to shape the global conversation around UK university sport.