For prospective student-athletes with big dreams, a U.S. college sports scholarship isn’t just financial support—it’s a gateway to a world-class education, elite competition, and personal growth. Whether you've got the talent to be aiming for a full ride, an athlete aspiring for a partial scholarship or a blended package of athletic and academic aid, understanding what’s covered (and what’s not) helps you plan wisely and more confidently.
Let’s break it down, explore the possibilities and look at some examples.
The Power of a Sports Scholarship
A sports scholarship can:
- Open doors to top-tier universities
- Reduce or eliminate tuition costs
- Provide access to elite coaching and facilities
- Build lifelong networks and career opportunities
- Support your development as both an athlete and a student
NCAA Divisions I and II award nearly $4 billion annually in athletic scholarships to over 196,000 student-athletes. While not every scholarship covers everything, many offer substantial support—and when combined with academic or financial aid, they can make studying in the U.S. and affordable and attractive option.
Types of Sports Scholarships
One of the first questions we often get asked is: “What’s the difference between a full scholarship and a partial scholarship?”, so let us explain.
1. Full Scholarships
These typically cover:
- Tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Books and supplies
- Sometimes travel costs for competitions
Full scholarships are extremely competitive and not guaranteed—even for top athletes, with around 1% receiving the golden ticket.
2. Partial Scholarships
These are more common, covering a portion of the costs, such as:
- A percentage of tuition
- Room or board
- Specific academic fees
Many student-athletes receive partial scholarships and combine them with academic aid, financial aid, or personal funding.
What’s Typically Covered
|
Expense Category |
Often Covered |
Notes |
|
Tuition & Fees |
Yes |
Fully or partially depending on scholarship type |
|
Room & Board |
Often |
Especially with full scholarships |
|
Books & Supplies |
Sometimes |
May be capped or reimbursed |
|
Travel for Competitions |
Often |
Especially for team sports |
|
Health Insurance |
Rarely |
International students may need separate coverage |
|
Visa & Immigration Fees |
No |
Typically your responsibility |
|
Personal Expenses |
No |
Includes clothing, entertainment, etc. |
|
Flights to/from U.S. |
Rarely |
Some schools offer travel stipends |
Sports Scholarship Examples
Example 1: Full Athletic Scholarship at a Division I School
Sport: Track & Field
University: Large NCAA Division I institution
Scholarship Offer:
- Full tuition
- Room and board
- Books and supplies
- Travel for competitions
Out-of-pocket costs:
- Visa and immigration fees
- Health insurance
- Personal expenses (e.g., phone, clothing, entertainment)
Why it works: This athlete is a national-level competitor with strong performance stats. The school sees them as a key contributor to their program and offers a full ride.
Example 2: Partial Athletic Scholarship + Financial Aid at a Division II School
Sport: Soccer
University: Mid-sized NCAA Division II institution
Scholarship Offer:
- 50% tuition covered via athletic scholarship
- Additional 30% covered through academic merit aid
- On-campus job opportunity for extra income
Out-of-pocket costs:
- Remaining tuition and fees
- Room and board (partially subsidized)
- Visa, insurance, and personal expenses
Why it works: This athlete has solid performance and strong academics. The school offers a blended package that makes attendance affordable, especially with the option to work part-time on campus.
Scenario 3: Financial Aid-Focused Package at a Division III School
Sport: Tennis
University: Small NCAA Division III liberal arts college
Scholarship Offer:
- No athletic scholarships (DIII schools don’t offer them)
- 70% of tuition covered through need-based financial aid
- Additional merit-based academic scholarship
- Coach support in admissions and financial aid process
Out-of-pocket costs:
- Remaining tuition and fees
- Room and board
- Visa, insurance, and personal expenses
Why it works: This athlete is academically strong and passionate about their sport. While the school doesn’t offer athletic scholarships, the financial aid office works closely with coaches to support student-athletes through generous aid packages.
Can a Scholarship Increase in Value Over Your Four Years?
Yes—in many cases, a scholarship can increase in value as a student-athlete progresses through their college career. While initial offers may be partial or modest, there are several ways your financial support can grow:
Performance-Based Increases
Coaches may offer more scholarship funding in later years if:
- You consistently perform well in your sport
- You become a key contributor to the team
- You demonstrate leadership and commitment
Academic Achievement
Maintaining strong grades can unlock:
- Additional academic scholarships
- Eligibility for honors programs or merit-based awards
Coach Discretion
In equivalency sports (where scholarships are divided among athletes), coaches often reallocate funds annually. If teammates graduate or leave, more scholarship money may become available.
Financial Aid Adjustments
Your need-based financial aid package may also change based on:
- Updated family financial information
- Changes in tuition or living costs
- Institutional funding availability
Final Thoughts
Whether you're offered a full scholarship or a combination of athletic and academic aid, the opportunity to study and compete in the U.S. is transformative. It’s not just about funding—it’s about investing in your future.
Interested in finding out more about US sports scholarship and opportunities to play and study in the States? Register with FirstPoint USA today.
