Last updated: March 16, 2018
Over 150,000 student-athletes are recipients of National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Divisions I and II scholarships on an annual basis. While $2.9 billion in athletic scholarships is certainly something for students to get excited over, this doesn’t take into account the popularity and competitive nature of these athletic scholarships, nor will all accomplished athletes choose to attend a Division I or II school.
Many opportunities exist outside of key players like the NCAA and individual universities. For student-athletes performing at all levels, scholarships can originate from a wide variety of public and private benefactors, including local and athletic organizations, foundations, corporations, women’s groups and minority advocacy associations, to name a few. Whether it be football, gymnastics, golf or equestrian sports there are a wealth of scholarships available. Student-athletes just need to know where to look.
Better yet, we’ve compiled over 40 scholarships that can be narrowed down by a variety of filters to meet the individual needs of student-athletes and while matching their athletic discipline.
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Student-athletes often face unique pressures when it comes to balancing academics and athletics. It is important to remember that success is not solely anchored in athletic accomplishment, but a combination of the both. In his speech, The Essence of the Student-Athlete, Ameer Abdullah reminded peers and the the athletic community about the importance of completing one’s college education.
“I have come to realize that life is bigger than football, and that my chances of long-term success in life will be greatly enhanced by completing my college education...the true essence of a student-athlete is someone who has the desire to educate themselves athletically, academically and personally.”
— Ameer Abdullah, Heisman candidate and running back for the Detroit Lions
Abdullah’s speech and actions serve as a legacy and a pathway for other student-athletes to follow in pursuing their athletic and academic dreams.
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There are hundreds of scholarships for student-athletes, which are awarded by local organizations, private companies, societies and more.
Grants don’t need to be paid back and are based on your financial circumstances. They are usually funded by the federal government, your state or college.
While scholarships usually fund tuition, fellowships typically cover graduate study, research projects and abroad experiences without needing to be paid back.
You can borrow money from the government or a bank, but it needs to be paid back with interest. The federal government offers many loan options—fill out the free application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for financial aid. If you need help, use our interactive guide to learn how to answer every question.
Provides part-time jobs for undergraduate and graduate students with financial need, allowing them to earn money to pay education expenses.
If you’re just beginning the process of finding suitable scholarships, make sure you’re prepared for the application process by starting a folder with the assets below.
Instructions: Click through the dropdowns below to sort by award amount and if you qualify for need-based aid.
Amount: $24,000
Deadline: January 11, 2019
The scholarship is a means of recognizing academic performance by student-athletes who have competed in intercollegiate athletics as a member of a varsity team at an NCAA member institution. Every year one male and one female student-athlete are awarded a the scholarship. The applicant must have undergraduate cumulative grade-point average of 3.500 or better. Be a graduating senior or be enrolled in graduate study at an NCAA member institution.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: April 8, 2019
Eligible recipients are high school juniors or seniors residing in Iowa who are planning to pursue a postsecondary education. One male and one female will be awarded. Scholarship will be granted based on character values and participation in the Iowa Games.
Amount: $15,000
Deadline: April 30, 2019
One female and one male student will be awarded this scholarship based on leadership in athletics, academics, and community service. Eligible applicants include high school seniors and undergraduate students with a 3.0 GPA or higher.
Amount: $2,000
Deadline: April 30, 2019
Eligible applicants include graduating female high school seniors who have demonstrated involvement in the sport of golf.
Amount: $750
Deadline: May 1, 2019
Applicant must be an undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin and participate in a athletics, recreation, pompon squad or the cheerleading squad.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: May 1, 2019
Students must be high school graduates residing in the New England states and must skate at FMC arenas.
Amount: $1,000
Deadline: May 6, 2019
One female and one male student residing in the North Central Florida area will be chosen to receive this scholarship. Student must be a high school graduating senior actively involved in a sport with at least a 3.0 GPA.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: June 1, 2019
Applicant must be an American male pursuing a post secondary or college education. Applicant must be a member of USA Gymnastics.
Amount: $500
Deadline: June 19, 2019
All student athletes are welcome to apply. Applicant must be a high school senior and submit a short 500-1,000 word essay.
Amount: $5,000
Deadline: July 15, 2019
Applicant must have graduated from high school and be on a current roster filed with National Headquarters. Applicant must be part of a team affiliated with an American Legion post and be nominated by a team manager or head coach.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: November 30, 2018
Eligible candidates must be student athletes at CSU Bakersfield.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: November 30, 2018
Applicant must use award for CSU Bakersfield Women’s Swim Team.
Amount: Varies
Deadline: March 15, 2019
The WSCGA Foundation wants to support the athletic dreams of young golfers through scholarship awards. The applicant must have completed high school, be a female Golfer and be a Southern California resident. The awards are allocated on merit basis.