Learn about the different division levels in America

Once you have determined your level of interest, talent and expectations surrounding college athletics, it is important to consider the various division levels available to compete in:

NCAA Division I—This is the highest level of college athletics and, thus, the most competitive and offer the most generous number of scholarships. DI schools typically have large budgets, expensive facilities, and the student-athletes are expected to train and travel extensively. With nearly 350 colleges and universities in its membership, Division I schools field more than 6,000 athletic teams, providing opportunities for more than 170,000 studentathletes to compete in NCAA sports each year.

NCAA Division II—This division While still a competitive division, is a collection of more than 300 NCAA colleges and universities that provide thousands of student-athletes the opportunity to compete at a high level of scholarship athletics while excelling in the classroom and fully engaging in the broader campus experience. DII athletes are provided more balance in their lives, as training and competition are not as intense. Scholarships are also offered at this level. Enrollments at Division II schools range from more than 25,000 to less than 2,500, though about 87 percent of the division’s member schools have fewer than 8,000 students. Division II offers a “partial-scholarship” model for financial aid in which most studentathletes’ college experiences are funded through a mix of athletics scholarships, academic aid, need-based grants and/or employment earnings. Division II is the only NCAA division that conducts National Championships Festivals, Olympic-style events in which several national championships are held at a single site over several days.

NCAA Division III—No athletic scholarships are offered for DIII student-athletes, but there are many other forms of financial aid. The competition levels are still very high, but practice seasons are shorter, and there is more of an academic focus. Division III is the largest division in terms of number of institutions and number of participants in the NCAA. Division III ensure over 195,000 students at 446 institutions representing 44 conferences, can further their athletic careers while earning a degree. Division III is unique in not awarding athletic scholarships due to its unwavering commitment to the academic success of every studentathlete.

NAIA—A much smaller community than the NCAA—with a little over 250 schools— the NAIA is a great option for student-athletes who love their sport but are looking for a smaller or private college, or a specific major.

NJCAA—Junior college (JUCO) is a good option for the student-athlete looking to get a sense of what college athletics are like at a two-year institution before transferring to a fouryear college. Many student-athletes compete at the JUCO level because they are working on their NCAA eligibility or are trying to save money before transferring to a four-year college.

Review academic eligibility requirements

The NCAA and NAIA have specific documentation requirements for international studentathletes to be academically eligible to compete in college sports. If you’re interested in NCAA D1 or D2 sports, review their academic requirements. Here are a few quick highlights to get started:

Find out about country-specific requirements and documentation

Provide academic records for years nine and up in English and applicant’s native language.

Provide proof of graduation, including certificates, diplomas, and final exams.

Translate all records to English.

NCAA schools issue Form I-20 visas, not the NCAA. Work with an interested school to secure a visa and note that an F1 student visa has specific requirements for eligibility.

Register with the NAIA Eligibility Center at least two months before beginning classes at a NAIA school.

Have the athlete’s secondary, high school, post-secondary and/or university send records to the NAIA.

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