College Athletic Scholarships

ACO Staff Writers
By
Updated on February 22, 2024
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    Discover Scholarships for Student Athletes

    College applicants face increasingly high tuition rates. Forbes magazine reports that between 1989-2016, college costs rose nearly eight times faster than wages. By leveraging their unique talents and skills, college-bound students can apply for scholarships to help pay for their degree. Learners with exceptional athletic abilities can also pursue athletic scholarships. 

    However, scholarship applicants face stiff competition. According to the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), only about 2% of high school athletes win a college athletic scholarship. Most college athletes do not win full tuition awards. 

    Because institutional athletic scholarships typically only cover part of college expenses, student athletes should also seek supplemental forms of aid. In addition to federal and state grants, many learners qualify for scholarships based on academic achievement, financial need, intended major, and other factors. 

    Our guide explores the college athletic recruitment process and highlights some of the many available student athlete scholarships.

     
     

    College Athletic Scholarships FAQ

    Four Ways Student Athletes Can Increase Their Chances of Winning Scholarships


    Winning a college athletic scholarship requires both talent and dedication. Understanding the process and staying proactive can increase students’ chances of success. While athletic scholarships vary by sport and institution, our basic tips can help aspiring college athletes stand out in this highly competitive arena.

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    Scholarships for Student Athletes


    In addition to institutional athletic scholarships, students with athletic experience may qualify for many other scholarships, whether or not they join their college team. As a form of gift aid, scholarships do not require repayment. In the next section, we highlight some top sports- and fitness-related scholarships.

    Resources for Student Athletes


    Students seeking athletic scholarships can access many support resources, including the ones listed below. These organizations oversee college athletics in the United States.

    National Collegiate Athletic Association

    The NCAA regulates and organizes college athletics at over 1,000 higher education institutions. The association’s functions include funding and organizing championships, formulating rules of play, and establishing eligibility criteria. The organization provides student athletes with financial assistance, wellness and insurance services, academic support, and career counseling. Its three divisions serve almost half a million college players.

    National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics

    A college athletics association founded in 1937, the NAIA serves over 77,000 student athletes. The association embraces a mission to build character in its athletes, based on core values of integrity, respect, responsibility, sportsmanship, and servant leadership. The NAIA administers scholarships, sets eligibility standards, organizes showcase events for prospective college athletes, and sponsors national championships.

    National Junior College Athletic Association

    The NJCAA governs intercollegiate athletics programs for two-year colleges. The association’s programs support about 60,000 players at these institutions. NJCAA student athletes compete in 52 national championships in 16 sports. The association administers student athlete scholarships, sets eligibility criteria, and provides academic and career support.

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