Can You Use Athletics Scholarships During College?

Hey, I'm curious if athletic scholarships are still an option while I'm attending college. If I join a team once I'm in college, is it possible to apply for this kind of financial aid?

Absolutely, athletic scholarships can definitely still be an option while you're attending college. However, the availability often depends on the intercollegiate athletic division to which your school belongs.

If your college is part of NCAA Division I or II, coaches typically offer athletic scholarships to recruit high-performing high school athletes. However, once you're enrolled, it's not common for an athlete to be newly discovered and awarded an athletic scholarship. Rather, athletes may potentially earn one if a spot opens up due to another athlete losing their scholarship or no longer being part of the team.

For NCAA Division III, athletic scholarships are not offered at all per the league's rules. Instead, student-athletes can be awarded merit-based or need-based financial aid like any other student.

If your school is in the NAIA or NJCAA division, your chances of receiving an athletic scholarship may be somewhat higher if you excel in your sport after enrolling in college.

Certainly get in touch with your school's athletic department and financial aid office to better understand the opportunities available to you. They can provide you with more specific information regarding the school's policies and the availability of scholarships across the different sports.

Finally, don't forget that community service, team commitment, and academic excellence can lead to an increase in scholarship funding, so always strive to stay balanced in your endeavors.