Scholarships - Part 2

In last week’s tip we identified two myths surrounding the availability of scholarships for athletic ability. This week we will explore some other myths about their distribution.

Myth 3 – Scholarship programs offer more money than non-scholarship schools

We learned last week that only a portion of all varsity programs offer athletic aid. Division III institutions and Ivy League schools do not offer any according to school and NCAA policy. However, it would be a huge misunderstanding to believe that these institutions cannot provide similar aid packages when factoring financial need and academic ability.

Throughout the country, much more money is awarded through financial aid and academic related aid than athletic, which often means the partial athletic scholarship offered by one institution might actually add up to fewer total dollars when compared to the total amount offered by a school without athletic aid. Athletes need to carefully consider the entire package before jumping to the conclusion that an athletic scholarship means more money.

Myth 4 – Scholarships are given for four years

Your scholarship is not guaranteed for all four years. Athletics scholarships in Divisions I and II are given initially for up to one year and can be renewed for a maximum of five years within a six-year period. However, they can also be canceled or reduced for almost any reason during this time period. Athletes must be prepared to fund their education in the event their scholarship amount decreases.

Myth 5 – Scholarships are always full rides

A full ride refers to the idea that an athlete receives an athletics scholarship that covers all expenses. However, most scholarships in the sport of water polo are awarded for partial amounts, covering some portion of tuition, fees, room, board, and books.

We hope this information will help clear up some of the confusion related to scholarships and that it will aid you in making better decisions. If you are fortunate enough to earn an athletic scholarship, congratulations! If not, hopefully you have learned there are other aid options to help you pursue your education.