Deadline Approaching: How to Apply for the 2026 Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College
The US Rugby Foundation is excited to announce that applications for the 2026 Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College are now open! This program offers U.S.-based high school male rugby players the chance to grow both on and off the field in New Zealand.
Quick Facts:
Application Deadline: Thursday, December 5, 2025
Eligibility: U.S. High School male rugby players born in 2008 or later.
Requirements: Must be in good standing with their team and school.
About the Scholarship
The Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College provides student-athletes with a rare opportunity to experience rugby and academic life at New Zealand’s oldest secondary school. Each year, one or two scholarships are awarded to promising U.S. players who demonstrate leadership, sportsmanship, and a commitment to excellence.
Beyond rugby, this program encourages cultural exchange and personal development, helping young athletes bring their experience back to their schools and communities in the U.S.
What the Scholarship Covers
Each scholarship package is designed to cover all essential expenses, allowing students to focus fully on their studies and rugby experience. Scholarship benefits include:
- Tuition and Boarding: Full coverage for schooling, either on campus or in a homestay.
- Travel and Medical Insurance: Comprehensive coverage for the duration of the stay.
- School Uniforms and Extracurricular Activities: Support for all required school attire and participation fees.
- New Zealand Government and Administrative Fees: All local administrative costs are included.
- Round-Trip Airfare: Travel to and from Nelson, New Zealand, is covered.
How to Apply
As noted in the Quick Facts above, applications are open to eligible U.S. high school male rugby players.
To apply, submit your completed application and supporting materials, including your high school transcript and a coach’s recommendation, by the December 5th deadline. Finalists will be interviewed virtually by the Nelson College Scholarship Committee.
Apply now to take the next step in your rugby and academic journey.
Spotlight on Past Recipients
2023 Recipients: Max Doerfler & Oliver Kirk
We proudly celebrate our 2023 Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College recipients: Max Doerfler and Oliver Kirk. These student-athletes took full advantage of the scholarship program, growing both on and off the field. They returned to the U.S. ready to share their experience, helping to elevate the level of play within their teams and communities.
2024 Recipients: Connor Bender & Joseph “JW” Sarkees
We are honored to announce the 2024 Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College winners: Connor Bender of Cleveland, Ohio, and Joseph “JW” Sarkees of Central, South Carolina.
Over the spring and summer of 2024, Connor and JW will immerse themselves in Nelson College’s rugby-focused curriculum in New Zealand, a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to blend athletic development with academic growth.
Learn more
For more details about the Graham Downes International Scholarship at Nelson College and to access the application, visit The US Rugby Foundation website. Apply now.
