I'm considering community colleges in Oregon and wondering if they offer athletic scholarships. Does anyone know which colleges might provide these scholarships and what the eligibility criteria are?
Yes, community colleges in Oregon do offer athletic scholarships. They tend to be part of the Northwest Athletic Conference (NWAC), which allows these schools to provide tuition grants-in-aid to student-athletes participating in varsity sports. Each school has some discretion as to the exact amount and number of scholarships it offers.
For example, Portland Community College, Lane Community College, and Clackamas Community College are all part of the NWAC and have athletic programs that may offer scholarships.
Eligibility criteria are relatively consistent across colleges. Generally, you must be a full-time student (minimum 12 credits per term) and maintain a certain GPA (often 2.0 or higher). You're also usually expected to participate fully in your sport, including practicing, competing, and sometimes engaging in community service. The exact criteria can vary by college.
Remember to connect with the coach of your sport as early as you can. Coaches are generally the gatekeepers of these scholarships and getting on their radar can help your chances.
Keep in mind that while these tuition scholarships can be significant, they often don't cover the entire cost of attendance. You may need to cover books, housing, and other expenses on your own (or with other forms of financial aid).
In addition, make sure you are academically eligible to compete. The NWAC requires that students maintain a minimum GPA and take a certain number of credits per term to remain eligible. The specifics can vary by sport and college, so it’s worth confirming the details with each school.
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