Students at a university are receiving £2,000 [2] to play computer games as part of a specialized program.
This initiative highlights the growing intersection of competitive gaming and higher education, providing critical financial relief for students facing high living costs.
The program originally offered a stipend of £1,500 [1] to participating students. The university later increased the amount to £2,000 [2]. Officials said the raise was due to the rising popularity of the program and the strong performance of the gaming team.
For many participants, the payment serves as a vital subsidy for basic needs. The program allows students to focus on their gaming and academic commitments without the pressure of outside employment.
"This money was crucial to me as it gave me the opportunity to study in a very expensive city without the need for part‑time work," Dray, a student in the program, said.
The university has not publicly named the specific city where the program operates, though the financial support is intended to offset the costs of residing in an expensive urban area.
By treating gaming as a structured activity worthy of financial compensation, the university acknowledges the time and skill required for competitive play. The shift from the initial £1,500 [1] to the current £2,000 [2] reflects the increasing value the institution places on the team's visibility and success.
“Students at a university are receiving £2,000 to play computer games.”
The increase in stipends suggests that universities are beginning to view esports not just as a hobby, but as a legitimate extracurricular activity capable of driving institutional prestige. By linking payments to team performance and popularity, the university is applying a professional sports model to student gaming, while simultaneously using the funds as a targeted form of financial aid to retain students in high-cost living environments.
