Which colleges have the best rowing scholarships?

I'm a high school rower and seriously looking into colleges that have strong rowing scholarship options. What are the top schools for rowing scholarships? I'd love to get a sense of where I could potentially row and study!

The schools that offer scholarships for rowing largely depend on whether you're a male or a female rower, as NCAA rules differ for each.

If you're a female rower, than you're in luck as women's rowing is an NCAA-sanctioned sport, and schools at the Division I and II levels are allowed to offer rowing scholarships. Here are some universities with strong rowing programs who offer scholarships:

1. University of California, Berkeley (Cal): The Golden Bears Women's Crew is consistently in the top rankings and regularly competes at the NCAA Championships.

2. Stanford University: Stanford women's rowing team consistently competes in the Pac-12 and NCAA championships.

3. University of Washington: The Huskies have a strong program, and the university is renowned for the annual Windermere Cup and Opening Day regatta.

If you're a male rower, things are slightly more complex. Men's rowing is not an NCAA sport, but rather is governed by the Intercollegiate Rowing Association (IRA). This means that universities are not allowed to offer athletic scholarships for men's rowing specifically, however, many schools do have strong men's rowing programs and offer other types of financial aid.

Here are a few universities with strong men's rowing programs:

1. Harvard University: Known for one of the oldest rowing programs in the country, Harvard Men's Heavyweight Crew is a strong program with many illustrious alumni.

2. University of California, Berkeley (Cal): The Men's Crew is consistently in the top rankings, giving you the opportunity to row at a high level.

3. University of Washington: The men's rowing program at UW is a traditional powerhouse and offers a strong program.

Do remember that even if athletic scholarships are not available, most universities offer academic scholarships and need-based financial aid, so do take the time to explore these possibilities too. Also, make sure to check with the school’s financial aid officer to ascertain what options may be available to you. Additionally, you could also reach out to the school's rowing coach to let them know about your interest. They might be able to guide you about the opportunities available at their school!