Keep reading to learn more about the available scholarships for high school athletes.
Many students dream of playing sports in college, but pursuing higher education can be expensive. That's where scholarships can come into play. These scholarships provide assistance with crucial expenses like tuition and on-campus housing, making pursuing higher education more affordable.
But earning a scholarship isn't just about financial support; it's also a recognition of your exceptional skills in your chosen sport—like receiving a prestigious gold star. Whether you're an amazing runner, love playing soccer, or can shoot hoops, there's likely a merit scholarship opportunity waiting for you.
Here’s our list of the top 30 scholarships specifically designed for high school athletes. We’ve also highlighted the key information you need for each opportunity, including the application deadlines, how much you can earn, and the eligibility criteria you need to apply.
Deadline: October 17th
Amount: $1,000 to $5,000
Eligibility: High school seniors with a GPA of 3.0 or higher who have participated in at least one school-sponsored spor
Sponsored by the iconic fast-food chain Wendy's, the High School Heisman Scholarship is a prestigious award that seeks to recognize the nation's top student-athletes. This scholarship isn't just about athletic prowess; it's about the balance of excellence in sports, academics, and leadership.
Wendy's aims to reward students who excel in sports, school, and leadership. Winners are chosen based on their achievements and future potential.
Deadline: January 30th
Amount: $20,000
Eligibility: High school seniors involved in sports, leadership activities, and community service
Application Requirements: Personal essay and two recommendations
Foot Locker, a global leader in athletic footwear and apparel, has always been at the forefront of supporting young athletes. Their Scholar Athletes Program is a testament to their commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders.
Foot Locker values the character and leadership developed through sports. The scholarship is for well-rounded athletes who also excel in school and community activities.
Deadline: May 31st
Amount: $1,000 to $2,000
Eligibility: High school juniors in the US with a GPA of 2.5 or above
Application Requirements: Essay on embodying the Triple-Impact Competitor model
The Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship is for those who believe in making a difference. It rewards students who are committed to improving themselves, elevating their teammates, and enhancing the game or sport. It's an opportunity for students who are dedicated to making a holistic impact through sports.
The Positive Coaching Alliance is dedicated to transforming the youth sports culture into a Development Zone® where the goal is to develop better athletes and better people.
Deadline: June 19th
Amount: $500
Eligibility: All high school athletes, irrespective of the sport they engage in
Application Requirements: Essay on the influence of sports on academic and personal achievements
Through this scholarship, the BigSun Organization emphasizes the life lessons learned through sports participation. They believe that the discipline, teamwork, and leadership skills developed can be pivotal in shaping one's future.
BigSun aims to help athletes succeed in life and academics. They understand the challenges athletes face and want to help.
Deadline: April 1st
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school juniors or seniors who have participated in the Iowa Games
Application Requirements: Online application and essay
The Brian Pearson Memorial Scholarship scholarship honors Brian Pearson's love for sports and rewards athletes who show great sportsmanship and dedication.
Brian Pearson's legacy is one of passion, dedication, and love for sports. This scholarship mirrors his values by celebrating young athletes who have shown exceptional sportsmanship and dedication to their chosen sports.
Deadline: February 26th
Amount: $1,500
Eligibility: High school athletes with a minimum GPA of 2.5
Application Requirements: Online application, essay, and a recommendation
The Play Scholarships are designed for those who excel both in the classroom and on the field. They focus on the symbiotic relationship between academics and athletics.
The Play Scholarships focus on the balance between academics and athletics. They believe discipline and teamwork are transformative.
Deadline: March 4th
Amount: Up to $10,000
Eligibility: High school athletes with Type 1 diabetes
Application Requirements: Personal essay, academic transcript, and two recommendations
The Team Type 1 Foundation Scholarship is a unique initiative that supports student-athletes diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes.
Understanding the additional challenges faced by students with Type 1 diabetes, the Team Type 1 Foundation aims to support their academic and athletic dreams. It's a testament to resilience, determination, and the spirit of overcoming challenges.
Deadline: April 1st
Amount: $1,250
Eligibility: High school seniors who have participated in Dixie Boys Baseball
Application Requirements: Online application and personal essay
With a rich history of nurturing young talent, the Dixie Boys Baseball Scholarship is dedicated to supporting the next generation of baseball enthusiasts. This scholarship supports young baseball players, recognizing their dedication and passion for the sport.
Deadline: March 15th
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: High school seniors who have played tennis in an organized program
Application Requirements: Academic transcript, personal essay, and two recommendations
The United States Tennis Association (USTA) Foundation is dedicated to bringing tennis and education together to change lives. The USTA Foundation values more than just tennis skills; they also look for academic excellence and community involvement.
Deadline: May 31st
Amount: Up to $6,000
Eligibility: Minority high school seniors who have participated in junior golf programs.
Application Requirements: Online application, academic transcript, and personal essay
The Bill Dickey Scholarship Association (BDSA) offers scholarships for high school athletes, as well as those who are already in college. This money can help you get through your college years and earn your degree.
Named after the legendary golfer Bill Dickey, this scholarship is a pioneering initiative to diversify the world of golf. This scholarship aims to make golf more inclusive and diverse by supporting minority students.
Deadline: February 16th
Amount: $20,000
Eligibility: High school seniors in the Houston area
Application Requirements: Online application, academic transcript, and two recommendations
The Hamman Foundation has been a pillar of support for Houston's youth for many years. Their scholarship program is a testament to their commitment to fostering the next generation of leaders in the Houston area.
The Hamman Foundation focuses on all-around development and sees this scholarship as an investment in Houston's future.The foundation believes in the holistic development of individuals and sees this scholarship as a way to invest in the future of Houston.
Deadline: February 14th
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school senior athletes in the Cincinnati area
Application Requirements: Online application and personal essay
Named in honor of John and Helen McCluskey, this scholarship serves as a source of encouragement and help for young athletes in Cincinnati. The McCluskeys believed in the power of sports to shape character and instill discipline.
This scholarship rewards hard work and dedication in sports and academics, aiming to make college more affordable for Cincinnati students.
Deadline: April 30th
Amount: $2,500
Eligibility: High school senior athletes in the Amarillo area
Application Requirements: Online application, academic transcript, and personal essay
Mike Lozano, known for his fervent advocacy for education in Amarillo, left behind a legacy that continues to inspire. The scholarship in his name is a tribute to his belief in the transformative power of education and sports.
The Mike Lozano Scholarship is designed for Amarillo's young athletes who have shown promise both on the field and in the classroom. It's a nod to Lozano's vision of empowering the youth through education, ensuring they have the tools and resources to chase their dreams.
Deadline: November 1st
Amount: $2,500
Eligibility: High school senior athletes in Northeast Florida or Southeast Georgia with at least a 3.0 GPA
Application Requirements: Online application
The Gator Bowl Charities Award of Excellence Scholarship is inspired by a commitment to academic achievement and community involvement, reflecting the core values of the Gator Bowl Charities. This scholarship encourages students in Northeast Florida to do well in school and in their communities.
Beyond just academic prowess, the scholarship aims to recognize the qualities of leadership, integrity, and a strong sense of social responsibility that are essential for future success.
It is designed to empower the next generation of leaders and community advocates, providing them with the financial support they need to pursue higher education and make a meaningful impact on society.
Deadline: April 10th
Amount: $5,000 to $10,000
Eligibility: High school seniors in the St. Louis area.
Application Requirements: Online application, personal essay, and two recommendations
The St. Louis Sports Commission introduced this scholarship in honor of Carl Fricks, showcasing its unwavering commitment to fostering sportsmanship. This scholarship rewards good character and sportsmanship, not just athletic skill.
The Carl Fricks Sportsmanship Scholarship is not just about athletic prowess; it's about character, integrity, and respect. It supports those who have shown grace in victory and defeat, understanding that true sportsmanship goes beyond the scoreboard.
Deadline: June 1st
Award Amount: $2,070
Eligibility: High school seniors who are student-athletes from single-parent households
Application Requirements: Essay on navigating the challenges of single-parent households and the impact of sports on their lives
The Jennifer Webb-Cook Gameplan Scholarship is a scholarship opportunity for high school senior athletes from single-parent households who are continuing their athletic careers at the college level.
This scholarship underscores the importance of both academic and athletic excellence, providing these determined individuals with the support they need to thrive in their academic and athletic journeys.
Deadline: September
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school senior athletes
Application Requirements: Transcript, a written statement outlining their unique sportsmanship or acts of compassion and kindness, and references
The TrophyCentral Sportsmanship and Compassion Scholarship Award is a scholarship available to qualifying high school seniors who are athletes. The scholarship offers a $1,000 award to be applied to their first year's tuition at a college or university.
Overall, the TrophyCentral Sportsmanship and Compassion Scholarship Award is an excellent opportunity for high school seniors who are athletes to receive financial support for their college education.
Deadline: June 31
Amount: $500
Eligibility: Open to both high school and college students who are student-athletes.
Application Requirements: 500-1,000 word essay about the influence participation in sports had on them
The Sports Lover Scholarship is a scholarship that promotes teamwork, discipline, and healthy living by helping those who demonstrate an interest in an athletics-related career. The scholarship offers up to $500 to both high school and college students who are student-athletes. This scholarship helps student-athletes who are interested in a career related to sports.
Deadline: August 1st
Amount: $1,500
Eligibility: Available to high school seniors and current college students who are planning to pursue a degree in a health or fitness-oriented field
Application Requirements: Three essay questions, a transcript, and a letter of recommendation
The Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship offers a $1,500 award to a high school senior, undergraduate, or graduate student who has demonstrated outstanding achievement, participation, and leadership in school activities and work experience.
This scholarship is dedicated to identifying students who demonstrate not only athletic talent but also excel in academics and community engagement. Its primary objective is to provide support to these exceptional students, enabling them to strengthen their academic accomplishments and prepare for prosperous careers in the health and fitness industry.
Deadline: February 29th
Amount: $5,000
Eligibility: Applicants must be US citizens who self-identify as female and are current high school seniors with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher
Application Requirements: Online application, cover letter, resume, transcript, one recommendation letter, and two-page personal statement about your career and educational goals
The Play Like a Girl Scholarship program provides financial assistance to five young women from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds who are pursuing a degree in STEM+ or medicine at a historically black college or university.
The Play Like a Girl Scholarship is a valuable opportunity for young women from traditionally underrepresented backgrounds who are pursuing a degree in STEM+ or medicine at a historically black college or university. With a focus on supporting their educational journey, this scholarship aims to empower and uplift aspiring female leaders in these fields.
Deadline: March 31st
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school seniors who have participated in NHSCA events
Application Requirements: Online application, transcript, and personal essay
This $1,000 scholarship is for high school seniors who have participated in NHSCA events. To apply, complete an online application, submit a transcript, and write a personal essay. It rewards students for their dedication to sports and academics.
Deadline: April 20th
Amount: $1,000
Eligibility: High school seniors who are current or former athletes
Application Requirements: Essay about how sports have impacted their lives
This $1,000 scholarship is for high school seniors who are current or former athletes. To apply, write an essay about how sports have impacted your life. It provides financial assistance for college and recognizes the positive influence of sports on personal development.
Deadline: March 12th
Amount: $7,500
Eligibility: High school seniors who are student-athletes
Application Requirements: Online application and essay
This $7,500 award is for high school seniors who are student-athletes. To apply, complete an online application and write an essay. It recognizes students who excel in academics, sports, and community service.
Deadline: May
Amount: $10,000
Eligibility: High school seniors involved in sports, demonstrating financial need and leadership qualities.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed form, proof of sports involvement, financial need documents, leadership evidence, a personal essay, and transcripts
The Dick’s Sporting Goods Foundation Sports Matter Scholarship provides $10,000 to high school seniors who are active in sports. To be eligible, students must show financial need and strong leadership qualities. This scholarship is designed for those who excel in both their athletic and community roles. The application deadline is in May.
Deadline: January
Amount: $20,000 ( $5,000 a year)
Eligibility: Female high school seniors involved in golf, with academic excellence and financial need.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed application form, proof of golf involvement, academic transcripts, financial need documentation, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Women’s Western Golf Foundation Scholarship offers $20,000 over four years to female high school seniors who excel in golf, demonstrate strong academic performance, and have financial need. The application deadline is in January.
Deadline: March 18
Amount: Up to $1000
Eligibility: High school seniors involved in basketball, with academic excellence and community involvement.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed application form, proof of basketball involvement, academic transcripts, community service documentation, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Larry Johnson Foundation Scholarship awards up to $1000 to high school seniors who participate in basketball, excel academically, and are involved in their community. The application deadline is in April.
Deadline: Varies by sport
Amount: $1,000 - $10,000
Eligibility: High school athletes in various sports, showing athletic excellence, academic achievement, and character.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed application form, proof of sports involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Gatorade Player of the Year Award gives $1,000 to $10,000 to high school athletes who excel in their sport, do well academically, and show strong character. This award recognizes top student-athletes across different sports.
Applicants need to provide proof of sports involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The deadline varies by sport.
The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program offers $20,000 to high school seniors who are active in sports, excel academically, and show leadership. This scholarship supports student-athletes dedicated to both their sports and academics.
To apply, provide proof of sports involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The deadline is in January.
Deadline: April 5th
Amount: $1,000–$2,000
Eligibility: High school juniors who participate in sports and demonstrate personal growth, leadership, and teamwork.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed application form, proof of sports involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship Program offers up to $2,000 to high school juniors involved in sports who show personal growth, leadership, and teamwork. This scholarship recognizes student-athletes who positively impact their sport and community.
To apply, provide proof of sports involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The deadline is in May.
Deadline: August 1st
Amount: $1,500
Eligibility: High school seniors planning to pursue a degree in a health-related field, active in sports or fitness activities.
Application Requirements: Submit a completed application form, proof of sports or fitness involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
The Michael Moody Fitness Scholarship offers $1,500 to high school seniors active in sports or fitness activities who plan to pursue a degree in a health-related field. To apply, provide proof of sports or fitness involvement, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. The deadline is in August.
Overall, scholarships for student athletes in high school provide a valuable opportunity to pursue higher education while continuing to participate in your favorite sport. By actively seeking and applying for these scholarships, young athletes can ease the financial challenges that come with college.
It's important to remember that every contribution counts, and your commitment to both academics and athletics can open doors to a more promising future.
Our Merit-Based Scholarship Directory is a great tool for high school athletes looking for scholarships that recognize both academic and athletic achievements. This free directory makes it easy to search and filter scholarships by award amount, GPA requirements, and more.
With current listings and tailored matches, you can find opportunities like the Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program and the Gatorade Player of the Year Award. Start exploring today to find scholarships that can help you reach your educational and career goals.
If you still have questions about high school sports scholarships. You're in the right place! We've answered the most common questions right here.
The easiest athletic scholarship varies based on factors such as the sport, your skill level, and the college criteria. However, scholarships in less competitive sports like rowing, fencing, and golf may be easier to secure. Research each college and various sports to find the best match for you.
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Division I and II schools, particularly those with strong athletic programs like the University of Alabama, University of Florida, and Ohio State University, typically offer the most athletic scholarships.
However, it's essential to note that the number of scholarships can change from year to year based on the school's budget, team needs, and other factors.
The odds of receiving an athletic scholarship are relatively low; however, they can change depending on the sport, the athlete's skills, and the level of competition in their region.
According to the NCAA, only about 2% of high school athletes receive athletic scholarships to compete in college. However, scholarships are more likely in sports with less competition or in cases where the athlete has exceptional skills and achievements.
Yes, some athletes do receive full-ride scholarships, but they are relatively rare and highly competitive.
Full-ride scholarships are more common in sports that generate significant revenue for the college, such as football and basketball. It's essential to understand the terms of the scholarship offer and consider other sources of financial aid to cover any remaining expenses.
Securing scholarships for high school athletes can significantly ease the financial burden of college and acknowledge your athletic achievements.
It's important to recognize that competition for these scholarships is fierce. To improve your chances, it's essential to understand the specific requirements of each college and sport, showcase your skills, and explore additional financial aid options.
Remember, being a student-athlete offers more than just financial support; it's an opportunity to enjoy your sport, acquire new knowledge, and forge lasting friendships. Continue giving your best on and off the field, and relish the journey of both academic and athletic growth.
