How to get a swimming scholarship in the USA
Have you always dreamed of becoming a college swimmer, trained by some of the best coaches in the world? Turn your dream into a reality with a swimming scholarship in the USA.
Complete evaluationSince the early 20th century, college swimming has gone from strength to strength, and is one of the highest levels of swimming competition in the world. The college swimming community boasts over 900 university teams, and has produced some of the world’s best swimmers, such as Missy Franklin, Ryan Lochte, Simone Manuel, and Ryk Neethling.
Ideally, you should begin the college swimming recruiting process for a college swim scholarship in Grade 9, however it is never too late. Here are some things you can do to give yourself the best chance of success:
1. Maintain high academic standards
College coaches who issue swimming scholarships will require that you take 16 core subjects in high school and maintain a certain grade point average (GPA). This GPA requirement may vary by school and athletic conference; however, a 2.3 is the minimum GPA requirement for NCAA D1 eligibility. If you start too late and take the wrong subject or get lower than the required high school grades, you might dash your chances of swimming for your dream college.
2. Compile a sports resumé
Put together a short, one-page CV (otherwise known as a resume) that should include all your personal best event times, subjects, GPA and contact details for coaches to quickly see your abilities at a glance.
3. Compete at a high level
College swimming is not a part-time thing. Young and aspiring swimmers should be at least swimming for clubs and competing at high-level events, including regional, provincial and national levels of competition.
4. Be proactive
Get in touch with US coaches early or 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 the right coaches at the universities you're interested in.
We know that getting a USA swim scholarship is a huge achievement and we are dedicated to making sure you get the best chance at getting the swimming scholarship for a college you deserve.
Do you believe you have what it takes to become a student-athlete at an American university?
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How do USA college swimming scholarships work?
Swimming scholarships are based on personal best times. With it being an objective sport, coaches will have a very good idea as to what you could bring to their team. Coaches will often look at SwimCloud to see which competitions you are competing in and track your progress.
- The better your times, the more scholarships you could receive.
- Competing at senior national championships is beneficial.
- A strong GPA and test scores can earn you more scholarships.
If you earn a 100% scholarship, your tuition and housing will be covered; however, most top swimmers get between 50% and 100% scholarships in their first year and can improve their scholarships in their second year. US college swimming scholarships are awarded on a yearly basis and can be renewed for up to four years of competitive swimming.
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.
Frequently asked questions about USA college swimming scholarships
1. What are the top colleges for swimming in the USA?
Some of the USA’s top colleges for swimming include the University of Georgia, the University of Michigan and the University of Texas, but there are many more. Speak to our team to get matched with the best college for you.
2. How fast do you need to be to qualify for a college swimming scholarship in the USA?
NCAA Division 1 college swimming is one of the most competitive swimming levels in the world, only just behind that of the FINA World Champs and Olympic Games. Speak to your high school coach or contact us for more specific guidance on the times you need for the different athletics associations and divisions.
3. What GPA does a student-athlete need in South Africa to qualify for a swimming scholarship in America?
Many USA sporting associations have different GPA requirements. We generally recommend at least a 2.3, but will be able to give more specific advice on a case-by-case basis.
4. When is the college swimming season?
College swimming galas, or “meets” as they are known in the USA, are mainly held at indoor pools over the winter months (September to March). The NCAA National Championships are held towards the end of March each year.
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 college student swimmer
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.