Yes, NCAA Division II (D2) schools absolutely offer athletic scholarships! While they might not be as widely publicized as Division I scholarships, D2 programs provide significant financial aid opportunities for student-athletes across various sports. This guide will demystify D2 athletic scholarships, helping you understand eligibility, how to find them, and how to increase your chances of securing one.
Navigating the world of college sports and scholarships can feel overwhelming, especially when you’re trying to figure out where your athletic talents might fit and how to fund your education. Many student-athletes dream of playing in college, but the financial aspect often adds a layer of stress. You might have heard of Division I scholarships, but what about other divisions? It’s a common question: Do D2 schools give athletic scholarships? The answer is a resounding yes! Many talented athletes find fantastic opportunities and financial support at D2 institutions. We’re here to break down exactly how D2 athletic scholarships work, so you can feel confident and prepared in your college search.
Understanding NCAA Divisions: A Quick Refresher
Before we dive deep into D2 scholarships, let’s quickly touch upon what the NCAA divisions mean. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) is the governing body for most college sports in the United States. It divides its member institutions into three main divisions: Division I, Division II, and Division III.
- Division I (DI): Typically the largest schools with the most extensive athletic programs. DI offers the most athletic scholarships, but also has the highest level of competition.
- Division II (DII): A significant segment of NCAA schools, DII offers a balance between strong academics and competitive athletics. DII schools often have a more intimate campus feel and a strong sense of community.
- Division III (DIII): This division emphasizes academics and student participation in athletics. DIII schools do not offer athletic scholarships, but many students receive financial aid through academic scholarships and need-based grants.
It’s crucial to understand these distinctions because the rules regarding scholarships, competition, and recruitment vary significantly between divisions.
The Truth About D2 Athletic Scholarships
So, do D2 schools give athletic scholarships? Yes, they do! This is a key point of confusion for many aspiring student-athletes and their families. Unlike Division III, Division II schools are permitted to offer athletic scholarships to help recruit and retain student-athletes. These scholarships are officially known as “financial aid based on athletics.”
However, there’s a significant difference in the amount of athletic scholarship money DII schools can offer compared to DI. This is where the “partial scholarship” concept comes into play for DII. While DI schools can offer full scholarships (covering tuition, fees, room, board, and books), DII schools have a limit on the total number of athletic scholarships they can award per sport. This limit is often expressed in “equivalencies.”
For example, a sport might have an equivalency limit of, say, 6.0 scholarships. This doesn’t mean only 6 players can get scholarships. It means the coaching staff can divide that total scholarship money among as many players as they see fit, as long as the total value doesn’t exceed the equivalent of 6 full scholarships. This often results in many DII athletic scholarships being partial scholarships, meaning they cover a portion of the costs, not the entire amount.
Key Characteristics of D2 Athletic Scholarships:
- Partial Scholarships are Common: Most DII athletic scholarships are partial, covering a portion of tuition, fees, room, or board.
- A Mix of Aid: D2 student-athletes often combine athletic scholarships with academic scholarships, grants (need-based aid), and federal student loans to cover their educational expenses.
- Sport-Specific Limits: Each sport has a specific number of scholarship “equivalencies” a DII school can award. This varies by sport.
- Recruiting Opportunities: DII schools actively recruit student-athletes and can contact prospective student-athletes directly.
How D2 Athletic Scholarships Work: The Mechanics
Understanding how these scholarships are awarded can demystify the process. As mentioned, DII scholarships are often awarded based on an “equivalency” system. This means a coach can divide the total scholarship money allocated to their sport among multiple athletes. For instance, a coach might award:
- One full scholarship to a star player.
- Several half scholarships to other key contributors.
- Smaller partial scholarships to fill out the roster.
The goal is to assemble the best team possible while managing the scholarship budget allocated by the university.
Scholarship Limits for Popular D2 Sports (Examples):
These numbers are approximate and can change, but they give you a good idea of the scholarship potential. The NCAA sets these limits to ensure fair competition.
| Sport | Max Equivalencies (Men) | Max Equivalencies (Women) |
|---|---|---|
| Football | 36 | N/A |
| Basketball | 10 | 10 |
| Baseball | 9 | N/A |
| Soccer | 9.9 | 9.9 |
| Volleyball | N/A | 7.2 |
| Track & Field/Cross Country | 12.6 | 12.6 |
Note: These are equivalency limits, meaning a coach can distribute this scholarship money across multiple athletes. For example, 10 equivalencies in men’s basketball could mean 10 players receive full scholarships, or 20 players receive half scholarships, or any combination in between.
It’s important to remember that not all DII schools offer the maximum number of scholarships for every sport. This depends on the university’s budget, athletic department priorities, and conference regulations.
Who is Eligible for D2 Athletic Scholarships?
Eligibility for D2 athletic scholarships involves meeting both NCAA academic requirements and the specific criteria set by the university and its athletic department. Here’s a breakdown:
1. NCAA Eligibility Requirements:
To be eligible to compete in NCAA Division II, you must meet certain academic standards. These are set by the NCAA to ensure student-athletes are prepared for college-level coursework.
- Graduate from High School: You must have graduated from an approved high school or its equivalent.
- Complete Core Courses: You need to complete a minimum of 16 core courses in high school. These include English, math, science, social studies, and foreign language.
- Minimum GPA: You need to achieve a minimum GPA in these core courses. For DII, the minimum GPA is 2.0 on a 4.0 scale.
- Standardized Test Scores: While the NCAA has temporarily suspended the ACT/SAT requirement for initial eligibility for the 2023-24 and 2024-25 academic years, it’s wise to check the latest NCAA guidelines as these can change. Historically, a minimum score was required.
You can verify your NCAA eligibility by registering with the NCAA Eligibility Center.
2. University-Specific Requirements:
Beyond NCAA rules, each university has its own admissions standards and athletic department requirements. These can include:
- Admissions Criteria: Meeting the university’s GPA, test score (if applicable), and essay requirements for general admission.
- Athletic Recruitment: Demonstrating a high level of skill and potential in your sport that aligns with the university’s athletic program needs.
- Coach’s Discretion: The coaching staff of the specific sport you play will assess your athletic ability, character, and fit with their team.
3. Financial Aid Requirements:
If you’re seeking financial aid beyond athletic scholarships, you’ll also need to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and potentially the CSS Profile, depending on the institution, to determine your eligibility for need-based grants and other federal aid.
How to Find and Secure a D2 Athletic Scholarship
Finding a D2 athletic scholarship requires a proactive approach. It’s not just about being a great athlete; it’s about making yourself visible to college coaches and understanding the recruitment process.
Step 1: Research D2 Schools and Programs
Start by identifying DII schools that offer your sport. Consider factors beyond just the athletic program:
- Academics: Does the school have strong academic programs in your intended major?
- Location: Do you prefer a large city or a small town?
- Campus Culture: Does the school’s environment feel like a good fit for you?
- Athletic Competitiveness: Research the team’s performance, conference, and coaching staff.
You can find lists of NCAA DII schools and their sports on the official NCAA website and other college sports recruiting platforms.
Step 2: Create a Highlight Reel
A well-edited highlight video is one of the most effective tools for showcasing your skills. It should include:
- Your best plays and skills.
- Game footage, not just practice clips.
- Clear video quality.
- A concise format (ideally 3-5 minutes).
- Include your contact information and key stats.
Upload your reel to platforms like YouTube or Vimeo and be ready to share the link.
Step 3: Build Your Athletic Resume/Profile
Compile all your important information into a document that coaches can easily review. This should include:
- Contact Information (personal and coach’s, if applicable)
- Academic Information (GPA, test scores, core courses)
- Athletic Information (positions, stats, awards, achievements)
- Community Involvement/Volunteer Work
- Your Highlight Reel Link
Many recruiting platforms allow you to create an online athletic profile that serves this purpose.
Step 4: Contact Coaches Directly
Don’t wait for coaches to find you! Reach out to the coaches of the DII programs you’re interested in. Send them an introductory email that includes:
- A brief introduction of yourself.
- Your academic interests and GPA.
- Your athletic achievements and why you’re interested in their program.
- A link to your highlight reel and athletic resume.
- Your upcoming schedule of games or tournaments.
Follow up periodically, but be respectful of their time.
Step 5: Attend Camps and Showcases
Many DII schools host summer camps and recruiting showcases. These events are excellent opportunities to get noticed by coaches in person. They allow coaches to evaluate your skills in a live setting and interact with potential recruits.
Step 6: Visit Campuses
If possible, visit the campuses of schools you’re seriously considering. Attend a game, take a campus tour, and try to meet with the coach. This gives you a feel for the program and shows the coach your genuine interest.
Step 7: Understand the Offer Process
If a coach is interested, they may offer you a scholarship. This offer is typically communicated through a formal letter of intent or a scholarship agreement. It’s crucial to read this document carefully and understand all the terms and conditions before signing.
Remember, DII scholarships are often awarded on a year-to-year basis, meaning they are renewed annually, subject to your continued academic and athletic eligibility, as well as the university’s policies.
D2 vs. DI vs. DIII: Scholarship Comparison
To further clarify, let’s compare the scholarship landscape across the divisions:
| Feature | NCAA Division I (DI) | NCAA Division II (DII) | NCAA Division III (DIII) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic Scholarships? | Yes, can offer full scholarships. | Yes, typically partial scholarships (equivalency-based). | No athletic scholarships. |
| Scholarship Amount | Can cover tuition, fees, room, board, books. | Varies; often covers a portion of costs. | N/A (focus on academic/need-based aid). |
| Competition Level | Highest level, most competitive. | Highly competitive, but generally a step below DI. | Competitive, with an emphasis on participation. |
| Number of Schools | Approx. 350 | Approx. 300 | Approx. 450 |
| Recruiting Rules | Strict rules on contact and evaluation. | More flexibility in contact and evaluation. | N/A (no athletic recruitment focus for scholarships). |
This table highlights that while DII might not offer the same number of full rides as DI, it provides a substantial avenue for financial assistance for many athletes who might not fit the DI mold or who prefer the DII environment.
Maximizing Your Chances of Getting a D2 Scholarship
Beyond the steps to get noticed, here are some tips to boost your odds:
- Excel Academically: A strong GPA and good grades not only help with NCAA eligibility but also open doors to academic scholarships, which can be combined with athletic aid.
- Be Realistic: Understand your athletic level and target schools that are a good fit for your skills. Don’t only aim for the top-tier DII programs if your performance level is more suited to mid-tier ones.
- Communicate Effectively: Be polite, professional, and responsive when communicating with coaches and university staff.
- Showcase Your Character: Coaches look for coachable athletes with good sportsmanship and leadership qualities. Highlight these aspects in your interactions and resume.
- Understand the Financial Aid Process: Complete the FAFSA early to maximize your eligibility for all types of financial aid.
- Be Patient: The recruiting process can take time. Don’t get discouraged if you don’t hear back immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Do all D2 schools offer athletic scholarships?
No, not all D2 schools offer athletic scholarships for every sport. It depends on the university’s athletic department budget and policies. However, D2 schools are permitted to offer them.
Q2: Are D2 athletic scholarships full or partial?
Most D2 athletic scholarships are partial, meaning they cover only a portion of the educational costs. Some exceptional athletes may receive full scholarships, but this is less common than in Division I.
Q3: How many sports offer athletic scholarships at D2 schools?
Most sports offered at D2 institutions are eligible for athletic scholarships, provided the school chooses to offer them for that sport. This includes popular sports like basketball, football, soccer, volleyball, track & field, baseball, and softball.
Q4: Can I receive an athletic scholarship and an academic scholarship at a D2 school?
Yes! Many student-athletes at D2 schools combine athletic scholarships with academic scholarships, grants, and other forms of financial aid to cover their college expenses. This is a common strategy.
Q5: How do I get recruited by a D2 school?
To get recruited, you need to actively research D2 schools, create a highlight reel, build an athletic resume, contact coaches directly, attend camps, and ensure you meet NCAA eligibility requirements.
Q6: What is the difference between D2 and D3 in terms of scholarships?
The main difference is that D2 schools can offer athletic scholarships, while D3 schools cannot. D3 schools focus on need-based and academic aid rather than athletic performance for financial awards.
Conclusion
The question of “Do D2 schools give athletic scholarships?” is answered with a confident yes! Division II athletics offer a robust pathway for student-athletes to compete at a high level while receiving valuable financial assistance. While many D2 scholarships are partial, they can significantly reduce the cost of college, especially when combined with other forms of aid. By understanding the NCAA eligibility requirements, researching programs thoroughly, actively engaging with coaches, and showcasing your athletic and academic talents, you can position yourself to receive a D2 athletic scholarship. Remember, the journey to playing college sports and funding your education is a marathon, not a sprint. Stay proactive, stay informed,