The London-based University of Roehampton has introduced the UK’s first esports scholarship.

Ten scholarship positions will open for students enrolling in 2019, with applications expected to start this September. The scholarship is worth £1,500 yearly, and will support a student on any course, at any level, undergraduate or postgraduate within the institution.

Prospective students will need to display a commitment towards academic progress on top of their commitment to competitive games. The structure of the scholarship is similar to existing sports scholarships already offered by Roehampton

"This scholarship is about recognising talent in a field that has a growing popularity both around the world and among our students.“ said University of Roehampton registrar Mark Ellul.

“The University of Roehampton already has a successful sports programme, underpinned by financial and coaching support for students who excel in their chosen field, and this new scholarship is a natural progression from that as we seek to develop our wider offering in esports."