Do colleges normally have track run-offs?

I'm a junior, currently exploring colleges with good athletic teams, especially track. I'm curious, do most colleges usually do run-offs for the track team or is it solely based on tryouts? Any guidance would be appreciated!

The process for becoming part of a college track team can vary depending on the school and its division level. Typically, at Division I and II colleges, track and field athletes are recruited directly out of high school based on their performance statistics, personal records, and other notable achievements. This often means that there aren't formal tryouts or run-offs, as most of the team is comprised of recruited athletes.

However, walk-ons who weren't recruited out of high school but still wish to compete are sometimes accepted. In this case, a coach might hold a run-off or trial period where the walk-on athlete can prove their skills and compete for a spot on the team.

For Division III schools, the process can be more flexible. These institutions often host tryouts or run-offs since they do not offer athletic scholarships. In such cases, high school stats are essential, but one's performance at the tryout or run-off does make a significant impact on their chances of making the team.

I would recommend reaching out to the coaches at the schools you're interested in. They can provide a more accurate picture of the unique process their program follows for recruiting athletes or hosting tryouts.