I'm a junior considering playing sports in college, but I'm not sure if D3 schools offer athletic scholarships. Is it possible to get a sports scholarship at a Division 3 school, or are there other types of financial aid available for athletes?
No, NCAA Division III schools do not offer athletic scholarships. This is part of the commitment within Division III to focus on the complete educational experience of student-athletes, emphasizing the balance between academics, athletics, and other extracurricular activities.
However, just because D3 schools don't offer athletic scholarships doesn't mean there aren't financial aid opportunities available. Many Division III colleges offer robust merit-based scholarships and need-based financial aid, which can significantly reduce the cost of attendance. This financial aid is based on factors such as academic achievements, special talents, leadership activities, community service, and financial need, rather than athletic ability.
So, while you won't get a scholarship specifically for your athletic prowess at a D3 institution, you can still receive financial support based on your other merits, or according to your financial situation.
As a student-athlete, you should still fill out financial aid forms like the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and apply for scholarships at your desired college. Checking out the financial aid webpage of each specific university you're interested in will also give you a good understanding of what scholarships and other funding options they might have.
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