Yes, cheerleading can get you a scholarship, but it depends on the type of cheerleading you do and the college you choose. Many colleges offer scholarships for competitive cheerleading, while others treat it as a club sport with limited funding. This article explains how cheerleading scholarships work, what you need to qualify, and how to find them.
Types of Cheerleading Scholarships
Cheerleading scholarships come in different forms, depending on the college and the athletic department. Here are the main types you can find.
Collegiate Athletic Scholarships
Some colleges, especially those with competitive cheer teams, offer athletic scholarships. These may cover partial or full tuition, but they are rare. The National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) does not officially recognize cheerleading as a sport, so these scholarships are not regulated by NCAA rules. Instead, colleges set their own criteria and funding.
Spirit Squad Scholarships
Many schools have spirit squads that cheer at football and basketball games. These squads often receive small stipends or partial scholarships. They may not cover full tuition, but they can reduce your costs significantly.
Club and Competitive Team Scholarships
If your college has a competitive cheer team, they might offer scholarships to attract skilled athletes. These teams compete in national championships and require high-level tumbling and stunting skills. Scholarships may be funded by the athletic department or through booster clubs.
How to Qualify for a Cheerleading Scholarship
Qualifying for a cheerleading scholarship requires more than just being a good cheerleader. Colleges look for specific skills, academic achievements, and leadership qualities.
- Strong tumbling skills: Most competitive teams require back handsprings, tucks, and sometimes fulls.
- Stunting experience: You should be comfortable with partner stunts and pyramid work.
- Good grades: Many scholarships have a minimum GPA requirement, often 2.5 or higher.
- Leadership and teamwork: Coaches want athletes who are positive and reliable.
Finding Cheerleading Scholarships
Finding cheerleading scholarships takes research and networking. Here are some steps you can take.
Contact College Coaches
Reach out to cheer coaches at colleges you are interested in. Ask about scholarship availability and what they look for in athletes. Many coaches attend cheer camps and competitions to recruit talent.
Check Athletic Department Websites
Look at the athletic department page for each college. Some list cheerleading scholarships under “Spirit” or “Athletics.” If you can’t find information, call the athletic office directly.
Attend College Cheer Camps
Many colleges host summer cheer camps. Attending these can help you meet coaches and show your skills. Some camps even offer scholarships to standout participants.
Use Scholarship Search Tools
Websites like Fastweb and Scholarships.com allow you to filter for cheerleading scholarships. Be sure to create a profile that highlights your cheer experience.
Comparing Cheerleading Scholarship Opportunities
To help you understand what to expect, here is a comparison of typical scholarship types:
| Scholarship Type | Typical Coverage | Requirements | Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Athletic (Competitive) | Partial to full tuition | High-level tumbling, stunting, competition experience | Limited, at select colleges |
| Spirit Squad | Small stipend or partial | Game-day cheer, basic skills | More common |
| Club/Competitive Team | Partial, often via booster funds | Tryout-based, strong skills | Varies by school |
Tips for Getting a Cheerleading Scholarship
Here are some practical tips to improve your chances of receiving a cheerleading scholarship.
Start Early
Begin contacting coaches in your junior year of high school. This gives you time to plan visits and prepare tryout videos.
Create a Highlight Video
Make a short video showcasing your tumbling, stunts, and game-day spirit. Share it with coaches when you email them.
Maintain Your Grades
Even if a scholarship doesn’t require a high GPA, good grades can make you a more attractive candidate.
Stay Open to Different Schools
Your dream school might not offer a cheer scholarship, but another college might. Keep your options open.
What If You Don’t Get a Cheerleading Scholarship?
If you don’t receive a cheerleading scholarship, don’t lose hope. You can still cheer in college as a walk-on or club member. Additionally, you can apply for academic scholarships and other financial aid to help pay for school.
In summary, cheerleading can get you a scholarship, but it’s not guaranteed. Focus on developing your skills, maintaining good grades, and actively reaching out to coaches. With persistence and preparation, you can increase your chances of earning financial support for college.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can cheerleading get you a full-ride scholarship?
Yes, some colleges offer full-ride scholarships for competitive cheerleaders, but they are very rare and typically require elite-level skills and competition experience.
Are cheerleading scholarships offered at most colleges?
No, only a limited number of colleges offer cheerleading scholarships, and they are more common at schools with competitive cheer teams rather than traditional spirit squads.
What skills do I need to get a cheerleading scholarship?
Most colleges look for strong tumbling skills like back handsprings and tucks, stunting experience, and a positive attitude, along with a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
How do I find colleges that offer cheerleading scholarships?
You can research college athletic websites, contact coaches directly, attend cheer camps, and use scholarship search engines to find schools with cheer scholarships.
Can I get a cheerleading scholarship if I’m not on a competitive team?
Yes, some colleges offer scholarships for game-day cheer squads, but these are often smaller and may only cover partial costs.
