Yes, Division 2 schools do give athletic scholarships. However, the rules and amounts differ from Division 1. In D2, athletic scholarships are typically partial, not full, and they are often combined with academic aid. This article explains exactly how D2 athletic scholarships work, what you can expect, and how to improve your chances of getting one.
How D2 Athletic Scholarships Work
Division 2 schools offer athletic scholarships, but they are not allowed to offer full cost-of-attendance scholarships like many D1 programs. Instead, D2 coaches have a limited pool of scholarship money to distribute among their athletes. Most D2 athletes receive a mix of athletic and academic money.
The NCAA sets limits on how many scholarships each D2 sport can give out. These are called equivalency scholarships, meaning coaches can split the total amount into smaller offers. For example, a football team might have 36 total scholarships, but they can divide them among 80 players.
Because D2 scholarships are partial, most students also rely on grants, loans, or other aid. The key is to build a financial aid package that combines athletic money with academic or need-based awards.
Scholarship Limits by Sport
Each D2 sport has a maximum number of scholarships that a team can award. This number is set by the NCAA and applies to all D2 schools. Here is a quick look at some common sports and their D2 scholarship limits:
| Sport | D2 Scholarship Limit |
|---|---|
| Football | 36 |
| Men’s Basketball | 10 |
| Women’s Basketball | 10 |
| Baseball | 9 |
| Softball | 7.2 |
| Soccer (Men) | 9 |
| Soccer (Women) | 9 |
| Volleyball (Women) | 8 |
| Tennis (Women) | 6 |
These numbers are the maximum allowed, but not every school uses the full limit. Many D2 programs operate with fewer scholarships due to budget constraints. That is why it is important to contact coaches early and show your value.
Full vs. Partial Scholarships
In D2, full-ride athletic scholarships are rare. Most offers cover only a portion of tuition, fees, room, or board. For example, a coach might offer a $5,000 annual athletic scholarship, and the rest is filled with academic awards or other aid.
Some athletes do receive a “full” scholarship, but that usually means a combination of athletic and academic money that covers the full cost. The athletic portion itself is rarely enough to cover everything.
Always read the scholarship offer carefully. Ask the coach or financial aid office exactly what the athletic scholarship covers and for how many years. Some are renewable, while others are year-to-year.
How to Get a D2 Athletic Scholarship
Getting a D2 athletic scholarship requires more than just being a good player. Here are practical steps to improve your chances:
- Create a highlight video that showcases your skills and game footage.
- Reach out to D2 coaches directly with a personalized email and your athletic resume.
- Attend college camps and showcases where D2 coaches are present.
- Keep your grades up, because academic scholarships can be combined with athletic money.
- Complete the NCAA eligibility center registration to ensure you are cleared to compete.
Coaches look for athletes who fit their team culture and academic needs. Be proactive and professional in your communication.
Academic and Need-Based Aid
Most D2 athletes combine athletic scholarships with academic or need-based aid. D2 schools often offer merit scholarships based on GPA and test scores. Fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal grants or loans.
Talk to the financial aid office at each school. They can help you create a complete package that makes college affordable. Remember, the athletic scholarship is just one piece of the puzzle.
Important NCAA Rules for D2
There are specific rules you must follow as a D2 recruit. For example, you cannot sign a National Letter of Intent (NLI) until the signing period for your sport. D2 signing dates are generally later than D1, but they vary by sport.
Also, D2 schools do not have the same recruiting calendar as D1. Coaches can contact you at different times. Make sure you understand the rules for your sport to avoid accidentally violating them.
If you are unsure about the rules, ask the compliance officer at the school. They are there to help you stay eligible.
Summary
D2 schools absolutely give athletic scholarships, but they are usually partial and combined with other aid. The key is to research each school’s scholarship limits, contact coaches early, and build a strong academic and athletic profile. By doing so, you can maximize your chances of receiving a D2 athletic scholarship and reduce your college costs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do D2 schools give full-ride athletic scholarships?
Full-ride athletic scholarships are very rare in Division 2. Most D2 athletic scholarships are partial, and athletes often combine them with academic or need-based aid to cover the full cost.
Can I get an athletic scholarship at a D2 school as a walk-on?
Yes, walk-ons can earn athletic scholarships later if they make the team and the coach decides to give them one. However, scholarships are limited, so it is not guaranteed.
How much money is a D2 athletic scholarship on average?
There is no set average because the amount varies widely by sport, school, and athlete. It can range from a few thousand dollars to near-full cost, but most are partial.
Do D2 schools give athletic scholarships for sports like track or cross country?
Yes, D2 schools offer athletic scholarships for track and cross country, but the number of scholarships is limited. Coaches often split the available money among multiple athletes.
Are D2 athletic scholarships renewable every year?
Renewal depends on the school and the coach. Some scholarships are renewable if you meet academic and athletic requirements, while others are year-to-year. Always ask about renewal terms.
