Are there wrestling scholarships for college?

I'm on my high school's wrestling team and considering wrestling in college. Do colleges often give out scholarships for wrestling, and what might the requirements be if they do?

Absolutely, there are scholarships available for wrestling at various levels, including D1, D2, and NAIA collegiate programs. The exact number of scholarships can vary based on the level of the program and whether the school fully funds its wrestling program. NCAA D1 wrestling programs, for example, can provide up to 9.9 scholarships per team, while D2 programs can offer up to 9. Each college, however, decides how many scholarships it will provide within these maximums, and some may not offer any at all.

To receive a wrestling scholarship, you generally need to be at least a varsity wrestler with a strong performance record. Scholarships are often partly based on your wrestling ability and results in high school and/or at national tournaments. This is especially true for D1 programs, which are highly competitive.

Further, to qualify for an NCAA scholarship, you will also need to meet academic eligibility standards. These standards include a minimum GPA and a minimum score on the SAT or ACT. These requirements change regularly, so it's important to check with the NCAA's eligibility center or your coach for the most current requirements.

Lastly, keep in mind that scholarships are often split among athletes. A full-ride scholarship is possible, but partial scholarships are more common. Many wrestlers, for example, will receive a partial athletic scholarship and combine it with other sources of aid, like academic scholarships or need-based aid.

Don't forget about club wrestling and intramural programs, as well. If the college offers it and you're interested, both are great ways to continue wrestling without the same level of pressure as varsity sport, and they sometimes have associated scholarships as well.

Ultimately, you should reach out to college coaches to express your interest and find out the specific requirements and opportunities at their schools. They can provide valuable insight into the recruiting process and the possibilities for financial aid. Good luck!