Yes, D2 schools can give athletic scholarships. Division 2 colleges and universities offer athletic scholarships, but they work a bit differently than Division 1. Understanding these differences can help you make smart decisions about your college sports future.
In this article, we explain how Division 2 athletic scholarships work, how much you might get, and what you need to do to earn one.
How Division 2 Athletic Scholarships Work
Division 2 schools are allowed to give athletic scholarships. The NCAA sets rules for how many scholarships each sport can offer. These are called “equivalency” scholarships, meaning coaches can split one full scholarship into several partial scholarships.
For example, a coach might give one athlete a 50% scholarship and another athlete a 25% scholarship. This allows more students to get some financial help, even if not everyone gets a full ride.
Division 2 vs. Division 1 Scholarships
Division 1 schools often offer “head count” scholarships in some sports, like football and men’s basketball. That means each scholarship is a full ride. Division 2 mostly uses equivalency scholarships, so full rides are rarer.
However, Division 2 schools can still offer a full cost of attendance if they choose. It just depends on the school’s budget and the coach’s decision.
| Division | Scholarship Type | Full Rides | Partial Scholarships |
|---|---|---|---|
| Division 1 | Head count (some sports) or equivalency | Common in football and basketball | Common in other sports |
| Division 2 | Equivalency | Possible but less common | Very common |
How Much Money Can You Get?
The amount of an athletic scholarship at a D2 school varies widely. Some athletes get only a few thousand dollars, while others might get close to a full ride. The NCAA does not set a fixed dollar amount; each school decides.
Scholarships can cover tuition, fees, room, board, and books. Some also include other costs like travel or equipment. But not every scholarship covers everything.
To get the full picture, always ask the coach or financial aid office for a clear breakdown of what your scholarship includes.
What Counts Toward the Scholarship Limit?
Each D2 sport has a maximum number of scholarships the team can give. For example, a D2 baseball team might be allowed 9 scholarships total. The coach can divide those 9 scholarships among many players.
This means a team might have 30 players, but only a few get scholarships. And those scholarships might be partial. So even if you are on the team, you may not get a scholarship.
How to Get a D2 Athletic Scholarship
Getting a D2 athletic scholarship takes planning and effort. Here are steps you can take:
- Start early – contact coaches in your sophomore or junior year of high school.
- Create a highlight video that shows your skills and game footage.
- Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center to ensure you meet academic requirements.
- Attend camps or showcases where D2 coaches might be watching.
- Keep your grades up – academic eligibility is just as important as athletic talent.
Academic Requirements for D2 Scholarships
To get a D2 athletic scholarship, you must meet NCAA Division 2 academic standards. As of 2026, you need to graduate high school, complete 16 core courses, and earn a minimum GPA and test score.
Make sure you take the right classes in high school. Your high school counselor can help you check that you are on track.
What If You Don’t Get a Full Ride?
Many D2 athletes receive partial scholarships. That means you will need other money to pay for college. You can combine athletic scholarships with academic scholarships, grants, or student loans.
Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) every year. This can help you get federal grants or work-study funds.
Also, talk to the coach about other ways the school might help, like a campus job or a book stipend.
Can You Get a Full Ride at a D2 School?
Yes, full rides do exist at D2 schools, but they are not guaranteed. Some sports, like basketball or volleyball, might have enough budget for one or two full scholarships. But most athletes get partial offers.
Be realistic about your chances. Even if you are a great player, the coach may have limited funds.
Important Deadlines and Dates for 2026-2027
If you are a high school junior or senior, you need to know key dates:
| Event | Typical Timeframe |
|---|---|
| NCAA Eligibility Center registration | Before senior year (by June 2026) |
| Contacting coaches | Junior year spring through senior fall |
| Official visits | Senior year (September–December) |
| Signing Day (National Letter of Intent) | November 2026 for early signing |
Check with each school for its own deadlines. Deadlines can vary by sport and college.
Final Thoughts
D2 schools can absolutely give athletic scholarships. These scholarships are often partial, but they can still cover a big chunk of your college costs. To maximize your chances, start early, stay on top of academic requirements, and be open to combining athletic money with other financial aid. Always ask coaches exactly what your scholarship covers and what you need to do to keep it each year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can D2 schools give full-ride athletic scholarships?
Yes, D2 schools can give full-ride scholarships, but they are less common than partial scholarships. Coaches often split the total scholarship money among many athletes.
How many athletic scholarships can a D2 school give?
The NCAA sets a maximum number of equivalency scholarships for each D2 sport. For example, a team might be allowed 9 total scholarships, which can be divided among multiple players.
Do D2 athletic scholarships cover room and board?
Some D2 athletic scholarships cover room and board, but not all do. You need to ask the coach or financial aid office for a detailed list of what your scholarship includes.
Are D2 athletic scholarships renewable each year?
D2 athletic scholarships are typically renewable, but they must be renewed each year by the coach. You usually need to stay academically eligible and meet team expectations.
Can I get both an athletic and academic scholarship at a D2 school?
Yes, you can combine athletic and academic scholarships, but the total cannot exceed the cost of attendance. Many D2 athletes use multiple scholarships to cover their expenses.
