How to get a golf scholarship in the USA
US colleges and universities award golf scholarships to students who demonstrate exceptional ability in their tournament scores. Complete our free evaluation to see if you could qualify.
Complete evaluationCollege golf in the USA has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century, with the first intercollegiate match played between Yale and Columbia in 1896. The sport has grown significantly, with over 1,200 university teams now competing.
Many elite professional golfers got their start in college golf, including Jack Nicklaus, Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, Annika Sorenstam, Grace Park and many more.
If you're a talented golfer with aspirations of being the next Tiger Woods, studying in the USA is the perfect way to take your golfing career to the next level while getting a world-class education.
The best way for aspiring golfers to secure a USA golf scholarship is to take the following steps:
1. Compete in tournaments
A player's handicap, although a commonly used indicator of ability, is not used by college coaches when recruiting for roster positions and scholarship funding. It's essential that you compete in highly competitive events, which may include regional, provincial and national tournaments.
2. Start early
Begin researching and understanding the college golf scholarship process as early as possible, ideally starting in Grade 9. This will give you plenty of time to research different universities and team rankings and understand the requirements to play college golf.
3. Maintain high academic standards
College coaches who issue golf scholarships will require that you take certain core subjects in high school and maintain a certain grade point average (GPA). Some colleges may require you take SATs or ACTs and achieve a certain score to qualify for scholarships.
4. Compile a sports resumé
You will need to compile a sports CV and track your performance. Maintain a low handicap, consistently score low rounds in tournaments and aim to be in the low-to-mid 70s in tournament play. Include a highlight reel of your golf swing. It is not critical, but does help shape a coach's image of you as a person and as a player.
5. Be of good character
Many US colleges strongly emphasise personal character when awarding scholarships. A student may need to demonstrate leadership qualities, a strong work ethic and good sportsmanship before coaches will grant them substantial scholarships.
6. Be proactive
Send your resumé and highlight reel to coaches at the universities you're interested in, and, if possible, attend camps and tournaments where college coaches will be in attendance. Speak to professional recruiters, such as those from Sable International, who can help you identify potential scholarships, guide you through the application process, and put you in contact with coaches at the universities you're interested in.
Do you believe you have what it takes to play golf at an American university?
Our placed athletes
Tylah James
University: Dalton State College
Highest achievements: Best Score: 80
Luc Gavagnin
University: Lamar University
Highest achievements: Best Score: 69
Marno Lange
University: College of Charleston
Highest achievements: Best Score: 68
How do USA college golf scholarships work?
USA college golf scholarships provide an opportunity for talented golfers to pursue their passion for sports and academics while receiving financial assistance.
Scholarships typically cover a wide range of expenses, including tuition, books and supplies, room and board, and even travel expenses for competitions. Some scholarships also include a stipend to help cover additional living expenses. However, this depends on the college’s budget and the student’s ability.
These scholarships are awarded on a yearly basis and are reviewed annually. They can be renewed for a maximum of four playing years.
Who awards sports scholarships in the USA?
Athletic scholarships are awarded by institutions and colleges that belong to the athletic associations National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), National Association of Intercollegiate Athletic (NAIA) and National Junior College Athletic Association (NJCAA).
The number of scholarships available can vary from college to college, but generally the NCAA Division I colleges have more scholarships to offer than Division II and III schools and other associations.
Each athletic association has strict rules for renewing scholarships based on athletic and academic performance; thus, students must maintain their performance throughout their college career to keep their scholarships.
It is important to note that not all athletes receive athletic scholarships. Even if you receive a scholarship, it may only be partial, meaning you may still have to pay for some of the costs associated with attending college.
USA college golf scholarship FAQs
1. What are the academic requirements for a golf scholarship?
Academic requirements vary depending on the university, but most require a competitive GPA and standardised test scores like the SAT or ACT. A strong academic record can improve your chances of securing a scholarship, even if your golfing ability isn't at the top level. For international students, English proficiency tests like TOEFL or Duolingo might also be necessary.
2. How good do I need to be at golf to earn a scholarship?
The level of play required depends on the programme (NCAA/NAIA/NJCAA). Men typically need to be close to a scoring an average of 73 or lower, regularly competing and performing well in regional or national events. Women often have more opportunities for scholarships due to fewer female players competing. Coaches value consistency, tournament experience, and strong mental attitudes.
3. How can I improve my chances of getting recruited?
Start early, ideally three years before college. Build a strong golf resume that includes tournament results, videos of your swing and key statistics like scoring average. Academics and extracurricular involvement also matter. Use social media to your advantage and to showcase your skills. Follow the social media accounts of university golf programmes to show genuine interest. Using a recruiting agency can help.
4. Can I get a full golf scholarship?
While full scholarships are rare, they are possible at certain programmes, especially if you combine academic scholarships with athletic funding. Coaches allocate their scholarship budgets strategically, so the amount depends on your athletic ability, academic qualifications and the team's needs.
Speak to one of our expert recruiters today about what GPA (and other requirements) you need to qualify for an athletic scholarship in the USA.
A day in the life of a golf student athlete
Our service
By offering personalised guidance and support, we aim to help student-athletes achieve their goals of competing in collegiate sports while obtaining a world-class education in the United States.
Athletic and academic assessment
We'll evaluate your skills, performance and potential to compete at college level. We will also review your academic record to determine your eligibility for college admissions and sports scholarships.
College selection
We'll help you identify suitable colleges and universities based on your athletic and academic goals.
Recruitment process
We'll help you create a compelling sports profile, introduce you to college coaches and assist you with navigating the complex recruitment process.
Scholarship negotiation
We'll guide you through the scholarship negotiation process to maximise your financial support.
Application and admissions support
Our expertise with US universities and educational institutions allows us to effectively assist and guide student-athletes throughout the application process.
Student visa assistance
We'll provide support and guidance around obtaining your visa to study and compete in the USA.