Are there scholarships available for eSports players?

I've been pretty into eSports during my high school years, and I'm wondering if there are scholarship opportunities for eSports players similar to those for traditional athletes. As I start looking at colleges, it would be awesome if there were financial aid options available for my skills in gaming. Does anyone know if this is a thing, and if so, which schools might offer these scholarships?

You're in luck! eSports has gained significant traction in recent years and many colleges and universities have started to recognize its value and the skill it requires. This has led to the development of eSports programs, and yes, scholarships for eSports players at a number of colleges across the country.

Some notable schools with eSports scholarships or tuition aid programs include Robert Morris University in Illinois, which was actually the first college to offer eSports scholarships, and the University of California, Irvine, which is known for its strong eSports program. Other schools offering eSports scholarships include Columbia College in Missouri and Maryville University in Saint Louis. These programs might cover full or partial tuition, and can sometimes include room and board as well.

Another potential source for eSports scholarships is through gaming companies themselves or third-party entities that sponsor eSports tournaments. For instance, software company Riot Games, creator of the immensely popular game "League of Legends," has partnered with several organizations to provide scholarship opportunities for collegiate gamers.

It's always a good idea to inquire specifically with each school you're interested in, as they may have different criteria for their eSports scholarships. This could be based on game-specific skills, team dynamics, or overall eSports portfolios.

Keep in mind, however, that just like traditional athlete scholarships, eSports scholarships also require maintaining a certain GPA and may have other conditions attached, to ensure students balance their education with their eSports involvement.

To summarize, yes, eSports scholarships are increasingly available and can provide valuable financial aid opportunities for students pursuing their passion in gaming. Make sure to research and reach out to colleges directly to learn more about their specific programs and offerings. Best of luck with your college journey!