For many student-athletes, getting into a Division I university or top NCAA school straight out of high school isn’t always possible. That’s where Junior Colleges (JUCOs) come in. JUCOs are two-year colleges that offer both academic and athletic programs — and yes, they offer sports scholarships too. If you’re a young athlete looking for an affordable and flexible path to a sports career or a four-year university, JUCO sports scholarships could be your golden ticket.
This article explains what JUCO sports scholarships are, who can apply, and what you need to know to get started.
What Is a JUCO Sports Scholarship?
JUCO scholarships are financial awards given to athletes at two-year colleges, often covering tuition, housing, meals, books, and other fees. These colleges compete in the NJCAA (National Junior College Athletic Association), which is the JUCO version of the NCAA.
Not every JUCO offers full athletic scholarships, but many provide partial ones. These scholarships can reduce your education costs while giving you the chance to grow athletically and academically before transferring to a bigger university.
Why Consider a JUCO Sports Scholarship?
If you didn’t get recruited out of high school or didn’t meet the academic requirements for NCAA or NAIA schools, JUCO could be your second chance.
Here are some good reasons to go the JUCO route:
- Smaller class sizes, more personal coaching time
- Lower tuition fees compared to four-year universities
- Opportunity to develop your skills and get noticed by bigger programs
- Shorter eligibility requirements (just two years)
- Chance to improve grades before transferring to a four-year college
Who Can Apply for a JUCO Sports Scholarship?
Any high school graduate or GED holder who has talent in a specific sport and meets the school’s eligibility rules can apply. Some JUCOs also accept international athletes. However, every program has its own requirements, so check directly with the school or coach.
You’ll typically need:
- A strong athletic background (with highlights or game film)
- Academic transcripts or test scores
- Good character references
- Physical fitness and a willingness to work hard
Popular Sports with JUCO Scholarships
JUCO schools offer scholarships in several sports, including:
- Football
- Basketball (men’s and women’s)
- Baseball and softball
- Track and field
- Soccer
- Wrestling
- Volleyball
- Tennis
- Golf
Some schools may also offer scholarships for cheerleading, swimming, or other less common sports, depending on the program.
How to Get a JUCO Sports Scholarship
To get noticed and increase your chances of being offered a scholarship, here’s what you should do:
Create a sports resume and highlight video
This should include your stats, past achievements, and short video clips of your best performances. Coaches want to see what you can do — don’t make them guess.
Contact JUCO coaches directly
Don’t wait for them to come to you. Send them your resume and video, and express your interest in their program. Include your contact details and ask about scholarship opportunities.
Register with the NJCAA Eligibility Center
Some JUCOs will require you to be certified by the NJCAA. You can register on their official website and provide the necessary documents.
Visit the campus if possible
If you’re serious about a particular school, visit the campus, meet the coach, and get a feel for the environment. This shows commitment and can make a great impression.
Keep your academics in check
Even though JUCO has more flexible entry requirements than the NCAA, you still need to meet academic standards to be eligible for scholarships or to transfer later.
Are JUCO Scholarships Full or Partial?
It depends on the program and the sport. Some JUCOs, especially Division I JUCOs, offer full-ride scholarships that cover tuition, room and board, and books. Others offer partial scholarships that may cover just tuition or a portion of expenses.
It’s important to ask coaches what their program offers, so you’re not caught by surprise.
Can You Transfer to a Four-Year University After JUCO?
Absolutely. In fact, that’s the goal for many student-athletes. After completing your two years at a JUCO, you can transfer to a four-year college to continue your sport and studies.
Many JUCO athletes go on to play in NCAA Division I, II, or NAIA schools after improving their skills and academics. Some even turn professional.
Tips for JUCO Athletes Who Want Scholarships
- Be proactive: Coaches won’t always come looking for you. Reach out first.
- Train consistently and record your progress.
- Keep your grades up — they matter more than you think.
- Show good character and discipline. Coaches want athletes they can trust.
- Be open-minded. Your dream school may not be the biggest one.
Final Thoughts
Junior College sports scholarships can open doors for athletes who need a stepping stone before moving to the next level. They’re more than just a plan B — for many, JUCO is the smartest choice. Whether you need more time to grow, want to save money, or just need a second chance, JUCO scholarships can give you the platform to shine.