DIVISION 1
NCAA Division 1 is the highest level of College Sports competition in the United States and includes many of the largest and most well known Universities and athletic programs.
What is D1?
D1 is short for Division 1, which offers the highest level of competition between the NCAA’s 3 Divisions. Most Division 1 programs are found at large schools with extensive athletic budgets.
DIVISION 2
If you want a more balanced approach to college, consider a D2 program. Being a Division 2 athlete also requires a lot of training and practice, but less than D1.
There are still the demands all Student-Athletes face, but it’s not as intense and rigorous as the year-round total commitment of a D1 Athlete.
DIVISION 3
If you want to focus on Academics as much as your sport, a D3 program is your best bet. This does not mean that you do not train or practice, but it is less demanding and intense than it would be at a D1 or D2 school. A D3 program offers you a more well-rounded college experience.
D3 is slightly different than D1 and D2. All D1 and D2 Athletes must meet specific eligibility requirements set by the NCAA. Each school is D3 sets their own requirements.
D3 students receive non-athletic aid through grants and needs-based scholarships. Approximately 87% of D3 Athletes graduate college within 4 years.
NAIA
Why an NAIA school might be for you.
It may surprise some, but the National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics (NAIA) has been around longer than the NCAA. With 250 primarily private, smaller schools, more than 60,000 student-athletes compete at NAIA colleges in various popular sports for the 2022-2023 academic year.
Many consider NAIA to be on par with NCAA D3 schools regarding life/sport balance and level of competitiveness. The NAIA awards close to $800 million in athletic scholarships every year. That, along with more aggressive recruiting, is driving more talent to these schools and increasing competition. Today, top-level NAIA schools are similar competing on a D2 team in terms of competiton level.
82% of NAIA institutions are Private.
65% are Faith-based institutions.
DO NOT IGNORE JUNIOR COLLEGES (JUCO)!
Between the 3 NCAA Divisions and NAIA Schools, it’s easy to overlook Junior Colleges as an option. Junior Colleges is also a good choice. According to the NJCAA, approximately 60,000 students athletes participate in 28 different sports at 500+ schools nationwide every year.
Many do not consider a JUCO because there are some common misconceptions about what a JUCO can offer student-athletes. Today’s Junior Colleges have a lot to offer, especially regarding scholarships and other costs savings.
JUCO is the best path to getting a 4 year college roster spot for some athletes. For others, it’s a chance to stay close to home, earn College credit and continue their athletic career.
Typical Pre-Season player schedule
OTHER MYTH BUSTERS
Playing on a shoe circuit
Putting up big numbers
JUCO vs 5th year
Best fit vs Big name
How to get minutes?
Position vs Position-less
Early Signing vs Late Signing
Transfer Portal
Eligibility Status