Edinburgh students find sport plays to their academic strengths

Strong results

Final-year students who completed degrees within the last five years and engaged in regular physical activity as part of University sports and exercise clubs or programmes also achieved strong academic results, as measured through degree outcomes.

The analysis examined sports participation and award outcomes for undergraduate students over the past five academic years, including award classification information for all those who completed a degree programme.

Sport and active wellbeing

Students who exercised for more than 150 minutes per week were more likely to achieve higher levels of academic achievement, with 93.5 per cent of those obtaining first and second-class awards when completing an undergraduate degree.  

The positive impact and benefits of regular exercise were reported as being both physical and mental, with respondents feeling healthier and experiencing improved mental well-being.  

Students said that they had also experienced personal growth and increased social connection, with over half identifying improvements in their confidence.  

Wellbeing benefits

Among participants, 81 per cent reported feeling a stronger sense of connection and belonging to the University community, while 74 per cent said regular participation helps reduce stress.  

The results highlight the positive role physical activity can play in supporting academic achievement, personal wellbeing and feelings of inclusion.

Our World Class Offer

The University’s sport and exercise offering is one of the most extensive in the UK, with opportunities now reaching 43 per cent of its student population, and more than 21,000 participating each week.  

Students can take part in more than 70 sports clubs and societies, with a wide variety of fitness classes, gym facilities, intramural leagues and wellbeing programmes designed to suit all abilities and interests. 

Mark Munro, Director of Sport & Active Health at the University of Edinburgh: 

Physical activity doesn’t just benefit the body, it enhances brain function and academic persistence. Encouraging students to stay active is key, with regular exercise or participation in sport not only supporting their physical and mental health but also increasing their overall educational success. From elite athlete development to social sport and wellbeing initiatives, the University aims to ensure that every student has the opportunity to stay active, connected and supported during their studies.

Naomi Scade, University of Edinburgh Sport Science student added: 

I regularly use the gym, and I’m also involved in the Netball Club. Sport gives me a really important break from my studies, it’s a chance to clear my head, see my friends and take time for myself. You often hear that you make friends for life through sport at university, and in my experience, that’s completely true.