How can I get a college scholarship for sailing?

I'm on my high school sailing team and hope to continue in college. Are there scholarships specifically for sailors, and what kind of performance or participation level do colleges typically look for in sailing candidates?

There are indeed scholarships specifically designed for sailors. For example, Inter-Collegiate Sailing Association (ICSA) member schools often offer sailing scholarships. Holly Martin Sailing Foundation and US Sailing Association also have scholarships for student sailors. Reach out to these organizations to check your eligibility and application process.

When applying for these scholarships, colleges and organizations often look at several things. First, they evaluate your sailing skills and achievements. For example, they might be interested in your performance in regional sailing competitions or your standing within your school's sailing team.

They also consider factors beyond your sailing skills. Leadership and community involvement are often crucial, such as if you've taken on a leadership role in your sailing team or if you've engaged in any initiatives to promote sailing within your community. Academically, maintaining a strong GPA can also be beneficial as some scholarships may require you to meet certain academic standards.

Remember to reach out to the sailing coaches at the colleges you are interested in. College coaches play an instrumental role in athletic recruitment, so having a good relationship with them is beneficial. They will give further insight on what's required from a sailing candidate at their respective colleges.

Beyond actual sailing scholarships, you should definitely also consider other forms of financial aid, such as merit-based scholarships or need-based aid. Each of these could significantly reduce the cost of your college education.

In summary, a strong record of sailing performance and leadership, combined with solid academic achievements, will strengthen your candidacy for sailing scholarships. Good communication with college coaches can enhance your chances of being recruited for college teams. And lastly, don't overlook other types of financial aid to supplement any sailing scholarships you may receive. Best of luck!