How Can I Get Cheerleading Scholarships for College?

I've been doing cheerleading throughout high school, and it's a huge passion of mine. I'm looking into colleges where I can continue cheerleading and hopefully get a scholarship for it. How competitive are cheer scholarships, and what do I need to include in my application to increase my chances? Also, would my participation in competitions play a role in securing such scholarships?

Securing a cheerleading scholarship can certainly be competitive due to the number of talented cheerleaders who are also vying for these opportunities, but your experience and passion for cheerleading will definitely be a plus.

Your participation in competitions absolutely plays a key role. Winning at major cheer competitions, especially at the national level, can make you a more attractive candidate to colleges. Success at competition shows that you've been able to perform under pressure and have achieved a high level of technical skill.

Here are a few tips to increase your chances of getting a cheerleading scholarship:

1. Seek Out Schools With Cheer Programs: Some schools are more invested in their cheer programs than others, so it's important to research colleges that offer cheer scholarships and have robust cheerleading programs. Schools with competitive cheerleading teams are generally more likely to offer scholarships to attract top talent.

2. Show Leadership: If you served as a team captain or in another leadership role on your cheer team, make sure to highlight this on your applications. Colleges value leadership experiences that indicate your ability to motivate a team, organize cheer routines, and dedicate yourself to practice and improvement.

3. Hone Your Skills: Work diligently to perfect your cheerleading skills. This could be anything from tumbling to stunting to dance choreography. A high skill level will make you more competitive for cheer scholarships.

4. Record a Video: A video showcasing your cheerleading skills can be an effective tool in your application process. Include segments that highlight your technical skills, versatility, and your ability to work within a team. This will give scholarship committees a better idea of what you bring to the table.

5. Academic Performance Matters Too: Keep in mind, not only your cheerleading skills but also your academic performances can play a substantial role in securing scholarships. Many scholarships have a GPA requirement, so make sure to keep your grades up.

In addition, it might help to reach out directly to cheerleading coaches at the colleges you're interested in, to express your interest and learn more about what they're looking for in athletes. This can also show your initiative and genuine enthusiasm for their program. Don't forget to apply early and meet all deadline requirements!

There are also external cheerleading scholarships offered by various organizations, so don't limit your search to the colleges alone.

Remember, the college cheerleading level is quite competitive, so make sure you're prepared physically and mentally. Good luck!