The application window for the 2026 Nelson College Scholarship is open for another eight weeks.
The US Rugby Foundation, in conjunction with Nelson College in Nelson, New Zealand, has been running this scholarship program for three years now.
During that time seven young male student-athletes have been able to study at Nelson College during the Southern Hemisphere fall and winter, spring and summer in the US, and also play rugby at a high level.
The US Rugby Foundation is now accepting applications from US high school male rugby players who are in good standing with their rugby team and their school. Applicants must have been born in 2008 or later.
In 2025 three scholarships were awarded, but overall one or two scholarships is the expectation for 2026.
Scholarship Package:
Tuition and boarding (either at the school or in a homestay)
Travel and medical insurance
School uniforms and extracurricular activity fees
New Zealand government and administrative fees
Round-trip airfare to and from Nelson, New Zealand