Options for College Scholarships for Athletes?

I'm a high school junior interested in finding scholarships for athletes. What are some good options or programs I should look into that support student-athletes financially? How does being an athlete impact scholarship opportunities?

If you're an athlete, there are quite a few scholarship opportunities available to you! While different sports have different levels of available aid, the ability to offer scholarships often depends on whether the school participates at the NCAA Division I, II, or III level.

If you're an athlete in a sport that competes at the NCAA Division I or II level, you're likely eligible for athletics-based scholarships directly from your college or university. Division III schools, however, don't offer athletic scholarships, and if you're a Division III athlete, you'll have to rely on academic scholarships or need-based financial aid.

If you are interested in an NAIA school, they also offer athletic scholarships. Just always double-check with the institution’s policies.

And keep in mind, some sports are "headcount" sports (like Division I college football or basketball), where each scholarship offered is a full ride. However, other sports are "equivalency" sports, where coaches can divide their allocation of scholarships among a larger group of students.

In terms of external scholarships, some organizations award scholarships to student-athletes. An example is the Foot Locker Scholar Athletes program which, every year, provides $20,000 scholarships to 20 student-athletes.

The Wendy’s High School Heisman program, honoring both male and female high school athletes who excel in learning, performing, and leading on and off the field, is quite prestigious too.

Make sure to also look for opportunities in local community organizations, and don't forget to check if your sport’s national governing body awards scholarships to athletes.

Being an athlete can absolutely impact scholarship opportunities, not only through athletic scholarships but also by demonstrating personal qualities like leadership, dedication, and teamwork—traits that are valued by many scholarship programs. Make sure to highlight these qualities in your scholarship applications. Good luck!