How can I find scholarships for college if I run cross country?

I'm a high school junior and love running cross country. Are there specific scholarships for college based on this sport? How should I go about finding them, and do they usually require me to run for a college team?

Yes, there are indeed scholarships available specifically for cross country athletes. These scholarships are often provided by colleges/universities and private organizations.

Collegiate cross country scholarships are typically offered to talented athletes who are recruited to compete on their collegiate team. The level of scholarship can vary greatly depending on the division and the competitive level of the team. NCAA Division I and II schools, for example, can offer athletic scholarships while Division III schools cannot, but may offer other forms of financial aid.

Scholarships also differ from full (covering tuition, room, board, and books) to partial ones (covering some costs). To be considered for these types of scholarships, be proactive and reach out to coaches at colleges or universities you're interested in. Send them your athletic resume, including your best times and important meets you competed in, so they can evaluate if you would be a good fit for their program.

Private organizations also offer scholarships based on athletic achievement, including cross country. Many of these scholarships are merit-based and may not necessarily require you to run for a college team. They might care more about your dedication to the sport, leadership qualities, community service, and academic achievement.

Start by discussing with your high school athletic director or counselor. They often have information about local and regional scholarship opportunities. Also, use reputable scholarship databases like Appily. It lets you filter by criteria like athletics, and you can specify cross country as your sport.

It's important to start your search early, ideally in your junior year, so you can stay ahead of application deadlines. And remember, every bit helps—even a smaller scholarship can go a long way in reducing your college expenses.