In 2015, the International University Sports Federation (FISU) proposed to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) to internationally recognise a day dedicated to university sport. UNESCO confirmed 20 September as the International Day of University Sport.

Stressing the crucial role of universities in using physical education, physical activity and sport to build the skills that define healthy lifestyles, as well as self-confident and socially responsible citizens and considering the common objectives of UNESCO and FISU in fostering quality physical education in university curricula, the International Day of University Sport has been recognised in order to promote the contribution of universities to fostering citizenship values through physical education as an essential component of the education and development of human beings.

The proposal has been confirmed at the 38th session of the UNESCO General Conference in Paris in November 2015.

European University Sports Association (EUSA) encourages its members, universities and students to commemorate the day, prepare and propose activities on local, national, European and international level.