If you are a high school basketball player dreaming of playing at the NCAA Division 1 level, you probably want to know: how many scholarships for D1 basketball are available? The answer is that each D1 men’s basketball team can give out 13 full scholarships, while each D1 women’s basketball team can give out 15 full scholarships. These are called “head count” scholarships, meaning they are full-ride scholarships covering tuition, fees, room, board, and books.
However, not every team uses all of its scholarships, and some players receive partial scholarships or walk-on opportunities. Understanding the numbers and rules can help you set realistic expectations and plan your recruitment strategy.
What Are the Scholarship Limits for D1 Basketball?
The NCAA sets strict limits on how many scholarships a D1 basketball program can award. These limits are the same for every school, regardless of the conference or school size.
| Division | Men’s Basketball | Women’s Basketball |
|---|---|---|
| D1 (Head Count) | 13 scholarships | 15 scholarships |
Because these are head count scholarships, each one is a full scholarship. Coaches cannot split a head count scholarship into partial awards. This means if a player receives a scholarship, it covers the full cost of attendance as defined by the school.
How Do Coaches Allocate D1 Basketball Scholarships?
Coaches decide how to distribute the 13 or 15 scholarships among their players. They can offer scholarships to incoming freshmen, transfers, or current players. Since the total is fixed, coaches must manage their roster carefully.
- Most coaches use all 13 scholarships for men or 15 for women, but some leave one or two open to recruit mid-year or to save for a top prospect.
- Players who do not receive a scholarship can still be on the team as walk-ons. Walk-ons pay their own way but can earn a scholarship later.
- Scholarships are renewed each year, but they are not guaranteed for all four years unless the school has a multi-year agreement.
- If a player leaves the team or turns professional, the scholarship becomes available for another player.
Are All D1 Basketball Scholarships Full Rides?
Yes, for D1 basketball, every countable scholarship is a full scholarship. This is different from sports like baseball or soccer, where teams have a limited number of scholarships that can be split into partial awards. In D1 basketball, the scholarship covers tuition, fees, room, board, and books. Some schools also include a stipend for living expenses, but that varies by school and conference.
However, a player might receive a “partial” scholarship if the coach uses a different type of aid, such as academic money or need-based aid, to supplement the athletic scholarship. But the athletic scholarship itself is always full.
How Many Players Are on a D1 Basketball Roster?
While the scholarship limit is 13 for men and 15 for women, the total roster can be larger. Many D1 teams carry 15 to 18 players, with the extra players being walk-ons. Walk-ons do not count against the scholarship limit and can practice and compete with the team.
For example, a men’s team might have 13 scholarship players and 4 walk-ons, for a total of 17 players. This allows coaches to have more depth in practice and to develop players who might later earn a scholarship.
What Is the Difference Between Head Count and Equivalency Sports?
Basketball is a “head count” sport, meaning each scholarship is a full ride. In contrast, “equivalency” sports like baseball, soccer, or track and field have a set number of scholarships that can be divided among many athletes. For example, a D1 baseball team has 11.7 scholarships that can be split into partial awards for 30 or more players.
Because basketball is head count, coaches cannot offer a half scholarship. If they want to give a player an athletic scholarship, it must be a full one. This makes the decision more significant for the program.
How Many D1 Basketball Teams Are There?
As of the 2025-26 academic year, there are 364 NCAA D1 men’s basketball teams and 348 D1 women’s basketball teams. This number changes occasionally as schools move divisions or new programs start. With 13 scholarships per men’s team, that equals about 4,732 potential men’s scholarships. For women, 15 per team equals about 5,220 potential scholarships.
However, not every team uses all scholarships every year. Some schools underfund or choose to leave scholarships open for future recruiting.
How Can You Increase Your Chances of Getting a D1 Basketball Scholarship?
Getting a D1 basketball scholarship is extremely competitive. Coaches recruit players who can help them win games. Here are some practical steps to improve your chances:
- Focus on your academics. Coaches want players who can stay eligible and graduate.
- Create a highlight video that shows your skills, basketball IQ, and work ethic.
- Attend camps and showcases where college coaches are present.
- Reach out to coaches directly with a professional email and your schedule.
Remember that only a small percentage of high school players receive D1 scholarships. It is important to have backup plans, such as D2, D3, or NAIA options.
What About Walk-Ons and Preferred Walk-Ons?
A walk-on is a player who makes the team without an athletic scholarship. A preferred walk-on is guaranteed a spot on the roster but still pays their own way. Some walk-ons eventually earn a scholarship if one becomes available. This happens more often in basketball than in other sports because the roster is smaller.
If you are willing to pay for college, being a walk-on can be a great way to be part of a D1 program. You still get to practice, travel, and compete, but you or your family cover the costs.
Final Thoughts on D1 Basketball Scholarship Numbers
In summary, D1 men’s basketball teams have 13 full scholarships, and D1 women’s teams have 15 full scholarships. Coaches can only give full rides, not partial ones. The total number of scholarships available across the country is around 4,700 for men and 5,200 for women, but the competition is fierce. Focus on your academics, improve your game, and be realistic about your options. If you do not get a full scholarship, consider walk-on opportunities or other divisions that might offer financial aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many scholarships does a D1 men’s basketball team get?
Each NCAA Division 1 men’s basketball team can award 13 full scholarships to players.
How many scholarships does a D1 women’s basketball team get?
Each NCAA Division 1 women’s basketball team can award 15 full scholarships to players.
Can a D1 basketball coach give a partial scholarship?
No, in D1 basketball, every athletic scholarship is a full scholarship. Coaches cannot split a scholarship into partial amounts.
How many total D1 basketball scholarships are there in the United States?
There are about 4,732 scholarships for men’s D1 basketball and about 5,220 for women’s D1 basketball, based on current team counts.
Do all D1 basketball players get a scholarship?
No, some players are walk-ons and do not receive an athletic scholarship. They pay their own way but can still be part of the team.
