The college application process takes on some special considerations for potential student-athletes.  Any student with an interest in playing sports at the college level should inform their counselor and follow the appropriate guidelines for registering with the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).

What Are The Divisions Within The NCAA?
Most colleges and universities belong to the NCAA, and there are divisions of schools within the association.  Division I institutions are the major sports programs.  Division I schools usually recruit student-athletes and offer athletic scholarships.  Division II institutions also recruit and offer scholarship money, but not nearly as much as Division I.  Division III institutions may or may not actively recruit and do not offer athletic scholarships.  Note that some Division I schools, like the Ivy League and some of the Patriot League schools, do not offer scholarship money. 

What Is The Clearinghouse?
The NCAA Clearinghouse is a registration and information service which allows you to become eligible for collegiate athletics.  If you are planning to enroll in college as a freshman and you wish to participate in Division I or Division II sports, you must be certified by the NCAA Initial-Eligibility Clearinghouse (www.ncaaclearinghouse.net).  It is recommended that you complete your Eligibility Form by the end of your junior year or the early part of your senior year. 

How Should You Present Yourself?
We recommend preparing an Athletic Resume.  The resume should include athletic and academic information in an easy-to-read format.  Coaches will review this information, but remember that the official acceptance to the college will come from the admissions office.   

Other Helpful Links
NCAA   www.ncaa.org
NAIA     www.naia.org/index.html