Playing College Sports
Your guide to athletic recruitment, scholarships, and competing at the collegiate level
Take Charge of Your Athletic Future
It is the responsibility of the student and family to complete the necessary steps to be considered for college sports. Understanding the recruitment process, NCAA divisions, and requirements is crucial for success as a student athlete.
Understanding NCAA Divisions
Division I
Characteristics
- • Most competitive level
- • Largest athletic budgets
- • Television coverage and media attention
- • Major conferences and rivalries
Scholarships
- ✓ Full scholarships available
- ✓ Covers tuition, room, board, books
- ✓ Highly competitive selection
- ✓ Multi-year commitments
Division II
Characteristics
- • Smaller schools and conferences
- • Less competitive than Division I
- • Balance of athletics and academics
- • Regional competition focus
Financial Aid
- ✓ Partial scholarships available
- ✓ Academic scholarships often combined
- ✓ More opportunities for walk-ons
- ✓ Financial aid packages available
Division III
Characteristics
- • Least competitive level
- • Strong academic focus
- • More playing opportunities
- • Liberal arts colleges often participate
Financial Aid
- ✗ No sports-related financial aid
- ✓ Academic scholarships available
- ✓ Need-based financial aid
- ✓ Merit-based scholarships
Essential Steps for Recruitment
Register with NCAA Initial Eligibility Clearinghouse
This is mandatory for all students planning to compete at Division I or II levels. Register early to ensure all requirements are met.
NCAA Eligibility Center RegistrationCreate Your Athletic Profile
Build a comprehensive profile showcasing your athletic achievements, stats, and highlight videos.
Recommended platform: berecruited.com
Take Personal Responsibility
The recruitment process requires proactive effort from students and families. Don't wait for coaches to find you - actively reach out and promote yourself.
Alternative Athletic Associations
NAIA
National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics
- • Typically smaller liberal arts colleges
- • Strong academic and athletic balance
- • Athletic scholarships available
- • More flexible eligibility requirements
NJCAA
National Junior College Athletic Association
- • Governing body for two-year colleges
- • Pathway to four-year institutions
- • Athletic scholarships available
- • Opportunity to develop skills
Recommended Resources
Athletic Scholarships
Comprehensive information about athletic scholarships across all sports and divisions.
Visit athleticscholarships.netBeRecruited
Create your athlete profile and connect with college coaches actively recruiting players.
Create Your ProfileTips for Athletic Recruitment Success
Start Early
Begin the recruitment process in your sophomore or junior year. Early preparation gives you more opportunities.
Maintain Academic Excellence
Strong grades are essential. Many talented athletes lose opportunities due to academic deficiencies.
Create Quality Highlight Videos
Invest in professional-quality videos that showcase your best athletic moments and skills.
Be Proactive
Contact coaches directly. Send emails, attend camps, and make yourself known to college programs.
Consider All Levels
Don't limit yourself to Division I. Division II, III, NAIA, and NJCAA all offer great opportunities.
Stay Realistic
Have backup plans and consider multiple schools and divisions that match your athletic and academic abilities.
Ready to Pursue College Athletics?
Take control of your athletic future. The recruitment process starts with you taking the first step.