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.
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.
Comprehensive guide from St. Ignatius College Prep that includes a checklist grid students can use for tracking your recruiting contacts with colleges.
This recruiting platform built by former college athletes allows student-athletes to gain exposure and showcase their talent with a built in messaging system that connects players with coaches.
How to Pay for College
1
Scholarships
There are hundreds of scholarships for student-athletes, which are awarded by local organizations, private companies, societies and more.
2
Grants
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.
3
Fellowships
While scholarships usually fund tuition, fellowships typically cover graduate study, research projects and abroad experiences without needing to be paid back.
4
Student Loans
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.
5
Federal Work-Study Program
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.
Not all scholarships are based off of your GPA, but most need to verify your high school education to qualify. Try to get certified copies of your transcript early, so you have plenty of time to meet the deadline.
Although there are scholarship opportunities that aren’t merit-based, it’s valuable to take the SAT or ACT standardized tests in case it’s a scholarship qualification.
Your scholarship essay is what will bring attention to your application out of the pool of applicants. That’s why it’s important to craft a stand out piece that attests to your experience, adheres to the scholarship guidelines and most importantly, highlights your true personality.
Letters of recommendation are a true judgement of your character—something that can’t be revealed through your test scores or transcript. Reach out to former teachers, counselors or bosses, so that they can speak to your qualifications. You may also want to provide them with a resume that outlines your achievements and goals as well.
Athletic Scholarships
Instructions: Click through the dropdowns below to sort by award amount and if you qualify for need-based aid.
Bill & Virginia Zorn Scholarship-Cheerleading
Amount: $750
Deadline:
May 1, 2020
Applicant must be an undergraduate student at the University of Wisconsin and participate in a athletics, recreation, pompon squad or the cheerleading squad.
Meldon Law Scholar Athlete Program
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
May 6, 2020
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.
Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship
Amount: $1,000-$2,000
Deadline:
May 31, 2020
Applicant must be a current high school junior with at least a 2.5 GPA. Student must participate in an individual or team sport sponsored by a school or local club.
Ramblers Scholarship for LGBTQI Student Athletes
Amount: $2,500
Deadline:
June 1, 2020
This scholarship is available to student athletes pursuing an undergraduate education in the U.S. who identify as lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, or intersex (LGBTQI), or who are demonstrated and committed allies to this community.
BigSun Scholarship
Amount: $500
Deadline:
June 19, 2020
The BigSun Organization is proud to be able to help young athletes succeed in their academic pursuits. In order to do our part we are offering an annual scholarship to a deserving student. All student athletes are eligible regardless of the sport they are engaged in or the capacity in which they participate. The student must be a high school senior or be attending a post secondary institute.
BigSun Scholarship
Amount: $500
Deadline:
June 19, 2020
The BigSun Organization is proud to be able to help young athletes succeed in their academic pursuits. In order to do our part we are offering an annual scholarship to a deserving student. All student athletes are eligible regardless of the sport they are engaged in or the capacity in which they participate. The student must be a high school senior or be attending a post secondary institute.
Athnet Sports Recruiting Scholarship
Amount: $1,000
Deadline:
July 1, 2020
Applicant must be a current or former athlete who is a graduating high school senior or current college student. Student must submit a 400-500 word essay describing how the lessons they have learned playing sports have positively impacted them as they pursue a college education.
American Legion Baseball Scholarship
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
July 15, 2020
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.
Joyce Komperda Athlete Support Fund
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
August 31, 2020
Eligible recipients include current members of US Figure Skating, and intermediate-, novice-, or junior-level skaters in singles, pairs or ice dancing. Applicants must provide a 250-word essay along with application.
NSCA Minority Scholarship
Amount: $1,500
Deadline:
October 15, 2020
This scholarship is designed to encourage minorities, ages 17 and older, to enter into the field of strength and conditioning. Applicants must demonstrate they have been accepted into an accredited institution working toward an undergraduate or graduate degree in the strength and conditioning field.
NSCA Women's Scholarship
Amount: $1,501
Deadline:
October 15, 2020
This scholarship is designed to support women, ages 17 and older, to enter into the field of strength and conditioning. Applicants must demonstrate they have been accepted into an accredited institution and are working toward an undergraduate or graduate degree in the strength and conditioning field.
NSCA High School Scholarship
Amount: $1,502
Deadline:
October 15, 2020
This program provides funding to high school seniors preparing to enter college. Students must demonstrate their acceptance into an accredited institution, their intention to graduate with a degree in the strength and conditioning field, their goals beyond college, and their track record of community service.
Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship
Amount: $24,000
Deadline:
January 15, 2021
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.
Columbia College of Missouri Talent Award
Amount: Varies
Deadline:
February 1, 2021
Applicant must be an incoming freshman or new transfer undergraduate student. Student must currently attend a college or university in Missouri or be planning on attending Columbia College of Missouri. Must demonstrate talent in art, music, or athletics.
