Yes, NAIA schools do give football scholarships. The National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) allows its member schools to offer athletic scholarships, including for football. These scholarships can cover tuition, fees, room, board, and books, but the amount varies by school and athlete. In this article, you’ll learn exactly how NAIA football scholarships work, who can get them, and what steps you need to take to secure one.
How NAIA Football Scholarships Differ from NCAA Scholarships
The NAIA is a separate athletic association from the NCAA, with its own rules and scholarship limits. While NCAA Division I and II schools often have huge budgets and strict recruiting calendars, NAIA schools are generally smaller and more flexible. This flexibility can be a big advantage for student-athletes who might not fit the NCAA mold.
NAIA football programs can offer athletic scholarships, but they are not required to give full rides. Most NAIA scholarships are partial, covering a percentage of costs. The total amount a school can give to its entire football team is capped each year, but individual awards can vary widely.
One key difference is that NAIA schools do not have a centralized clearinghouse like the NCAA Eligibility Center. Instead, each NAIA school sets its own admission and eligibility standards, as long as they meet NAIA minimums. This means you can work directly with coaches and admissions offices to figure out your options.
Who Can Get an NAIA Football Scholarship?
To get an NAIA football scholarship, you must first be accepted into the school and meet NAIA eligibility rules. The NAIA requires you to be a high school graduate, have a minimum GPA of 2.0 on a 4.0 scale, and meet certain test score requirements (ACT or SAT). You also need to be enrolled in at least 12 credit hours each term to be eligible to play.
But meeting the minimums is just the start. Coaches look for players who fit their team’s needs. They evaluate your high school film, stats, and character. Because NAIA schools often have smaller recruiting budgets, they rely heavily on your initiative to reach out and market yourself.
International students can also receive NAIA football scholarships, but they must meet additional visa and English proficiency requirements. Always check with the specific school’s international admissions office for details.
How Many Football Scholarships Can NAIA Schools Offer?
NAIA football programs are allowed to give out a certain number of athletic scholarships each year. The exact limit is set by the NAIA and is based on a formula tied to the number of sports the school sponsors. As of the 2025-2026 academic year, the NAIA permits up to 24 full football scholarships per school, but coaches can split them into partial awards.
Here is a simple breakdown of NAIA football scholarship limits compared to other levels:
| Association/Division | Maximum Full Football Scholarships per Year | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| NAIA | 24 | Can be split into partials |
| NCAA Division I FBS | 85 | Full rides only |
| NCAA Division I FCS | 63 | Full rides only |
| NCAA Division II | 36 | Can be split into partials |
| NCAA Division III | 0 | No athletic scholarships |
As you can see, NAIA offers fewer scholarships than NCAA Division I, but more than Division III. The key is that NAIA schools can split scholarships, so more athletes can get some help.
How to Get Recruited for NAIA Football
Getting an NAIA football scholarship requires a proactive approach. Here are actionable steps you can take:
- Create a highlight video that showcases your skills. Keep it under 5 minutes and put your best plays first.
- Build a list of NAIA schools that fit your academic and athletic profile. Look for programs that run a style similar to your high school team.
- Email coaches directly with a short intro, your stats, and a link to your video. Follow up politely after a week.
- Attend NAIA football camps or showcases if possible. Many coaches recruit from these events.
Remember, NAIA coaches often have limited time. Make your communication clear and professional. Show them you’re serious about both academics and football.
Financial Aid Beyond Athletic Scholarships
NAIA football scholarships are not the only way to pay for school. Many athletes combine athletic money with academic scholarships, need-based grants, or other institutional aid. For example, a student with a high GPA might qualify for a merit scholarship that covers a large part of tuition, and the football scholarship can cover the rest.
You should also fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see if you qualify for federal grants or loans. Some states offer their own grants for residents. Always ask the school’s financial aid office about all possible aid sources.
Combining multiple awards is common in the NAIA. Coaches often work with financial aid officers to create a package that makes attending the school affordable for you.
Important Deadlines and Timeline
NAIA recruiting has no official signing day, but certain deadlines matter. Here are key dates to keep in mind for the 2026-2027 academic year:
- Fall 2026: Start contacting coaches and sending your highlight video.
- January 2027: Many NAIA schools host official visits for potential recruits.
- February 2027: Some schools begin offering scholarships for the next fall.
- April 2027: National Letter of Intent (NLI) signing period for NAIA schools (though not all use it).
- August 2027: Fall semester begins; you must be enrolled and eligible.
These dates are general, so always confirm with each school. The earlier you start, the better your chances of securing a scholarship.
What to Do If You Don’t Get a Full Scholarship
If you receive a partial scholarship, don’t be discouraged. Many NAIA athletes pay a portion of their costs. You can work with the coach to see if more aid is available later, especially if you perform well on the field. Some schools offer increased scholarships after your freshman year based on your contributions.
Also, consider walking on to the team. Walk-ons can earn scholarships later if a spot opens up. It’s not guaranteed, but it happens. Make sure you have a backup plan for financing your education, such as working part-time or applying for outside scholarships.
Final Thoughts
NAIA schools absolutely give football scholarships, and they can be a great opportunity for many student-athletes. The key is to understand that most are partial, so you’ll likely need to combine them with other aid. Start your recruiting process early, be proactive in contacting coaches, and keep your grades up to maximize your options. With effort and planning, you can find an NAIA school that supports your athletic and academic goals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do NAIA schools give full-ride football scholarships?
Yes, NAIA schools can offer full-ride football scholarships, but they are rare. Most NAIA football scholarships are partial, covering only a portion of tuition and fees.
What GPA do I need to get a NAIA football scholarship?
You need at least a 2.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale to be eligible for NAIA athletics. However, coaches may prefer higher grades, and some schools may require more.
Can I get a NAIA football scholarship as an international student?
Yes, international students can receive NAIA football scholarships, but they must meet visa requirements and English proficiency standards set by the school.
How do I contact NAIA football coaches for a scholarship?
You can email coaches directly with your highlight video, stats, and academic information. Be professional and persistent, and follow up politely.
Are NAIA football scholarships renewable each year?
NAIA football scholarships are typically renewed annually, but they depend on your academic standing and athletic performance. Coaches may adjust the amount based on your contributions.
