Can you get a scholarship for cheerleading? Cheerleading has evolved far beyond the sidelines of football and basketball games. Today, it is recognized as a competitive and athletic discipline that demands strength, stamina, coordination, and spirit. Cheerleaders are not only crowd motivators—they are gymnasts, dancers, and athletes. With the rise of competitive cheerleading, many prospective college students and their families often ask, Can you get a scholarship for cheerleading?
The Recognition of Cheerleading as a Sport
While cheerleading is not officially recognized by the NCAA as a sanctioned sport, it is taken seriously at many colleges and universities. Schools with large athletic departments often have competitive cheer teams, many of which participate in national championships like the NCA (National Cheerleaders Association) or UCA (Universal Cheerleaders Association) competitions.
Because of this competitive structure, numerous colleges offer athletic-based scholarships for cheerleaders, especially those with a strong background in stunting, tumbling, and dance. These scholarships can range from partial tuition assistance to full-ride awards, depending on the institution and the athlete’s skill level.
Types of Cheerleading Scholarships
There are generally three main types of scholarships available for cheerleaders:
1. Athletic Scholarships (School-Specific)
These are the most common cheerleading scholarships and are awarded directly by college cheer programs. Depending on the college, the coaching staff and athletic department determine the scholarship amount.
Examples:
- University of Kentucky (a cheerleading powerhouse) offers partial and full scholarships for its elite cheer teams.
- Texas Tech University, known for its national-level cheer squad, provides tuition assistance and stipends.
- Louisiana State University (LSU) awards out-of-state tuition waivers to cheerleaders who make the team.
2. Academic + Athletic Combination Scholarships
Some schools don’t offer athletic-specific scholarships for cheerleaders but may provide academic scholarships that cheerleaders can qualify for based on grades, test scores, and leadership experience.
Combining academic merit with athletic participation can create a strong financial aid package, especially for cheerleaders who maintain a high GPA while competing.
3. Private and Organization-Based Scholarships
There are also private organizations that support student-athletes, including cheerleaders. These scholarships are often awarded based on community service, essay contests, or financial need.
Examples include:
- Varsity Spirit Scholarships
- The Cheerleading Company Scholarship
- All-American Scholar Athlete Awards
Division Differences: NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA
Unlike major sports like football or basketball, cheerleading exists in a gray area of athletic regulation. Here’s how it breaks down by college athletic divisions:
NCAA Division I & II:
- Cheerleading is not officially sanctioned, so scholarships are offered at the discretion of each school.
- Some Division I schools with strong spirit programs offer significant scholarships and cover travel, gear, and housing costs for cheerleaders.
NAIA (National Association of Intercollegiate Athletics):
- Cheerleading is an emerging sport in NAIA, and many NAIA colleges actively recruit cheerleaders.
- NAIA cheer teams often receive athletic scholarships and competitive stipends.
- There are even NAIA Cheer and Dance Championships, elevating the sport’s visibility.
NJCAA (Junior Colleges):
- Many junior and community colleges offer cheerleading scholarships, especially as part of recruitment for transfer pathways.
- These schools can be an excellent starting point for students who plan to transfer to a four-year university.
What Skills Are Coaches Looking For?
Scholarship-worthy cheerleaders don’t just look the part—they train hard, bring versatility, and demonstrate leadership. College coaches are on the lookout for the following attributes:
- Elite Tumbling Skills: Standing back tucks, full twisting layouts, and elite passes are highly valuable.
- Stunting Ability: Flyers, bases, and back spots all need strength, technique, and timing.
- Crowd Engagement: Being able to lead chants and energize a stadium is a key aspect of collegiate cheer.
- Academic Excellence: Many cheer programs have GPA requirements for scholarship consideration.
- Teamwork and Leadership: Coaches value athletes who can work within a squad, support others, and maintain discipline.
How to Increase Your Chances of Earning a Cheer Scholarship
If you’re aiming for a cheerleading scholarship, preparation and outreach are critical. Here’s how to boost your chances:
1. Create a Skills Video
A highlight reel showcasing your tumbling, stunts, jumps, and sideline work is essential. Make sure it’s clear, well-edited, and recent.
2. Attend College Clinics and Camps
Many universities host cheerleading clinics or tryout camps for high school students. These are great for networking with coaches, experiencing team culture, and getting noticed.
3. Contact College Coaches
Reach out directly to the cheerleading coach at your target school. Send your video, academic transcript, and a personal introduction expressing your interest.
4. Stay in Shape and Train Year-Round
Collegiate cheer is physically demanding. Keep up with tumbling classes, strength training, and injury prevention.
5. Apply Early
Each program has different timelines for recruitment and scholarship offers. The earlier you apply, the more options you’ll have.
Common Questions About Cheer Scholarships
Can walk-on cheerleaders earn scholarships later?
Yes. Many cheer programs offer scholarships to returning athletes who prove their value and commitment to the team. It’s not uncommon for second-year cheerleaders to receive aid after a strong first year.
Do male cheerleaders get scholarships?
Absolutely! Male cheerleaders are in high demand for stunting roles, and many programs offer generous scholarships to attract skilled male athletes.
Are there full-ride cheerleading scholarships?
Yes, but they are rare. Most cheer scholarships are partial and combined with other aid. However, at top schools like University of Kentucky or University of Alabama, full-ride offers can happen for elite athletes.
Final Thoughts | Can you get a scholarship for cheerleading?
So, can you get a scholarship for cheerleading? Yes—you can, and many do. Cheerleading scholarships are a real and rewarding option for students who bring passion, power, and perseverance to the sport.
Whether you’re a tumbler aiming for a D1 team or a spirited leader looking to perform at the NAIA level, scholarships are waiting for you. With the right preparation, outreach, and dedication, you can turn your cheerleading talent into college funding and a life-changing collegiate experience.
The world of cheerleading is expanding, and scholarships are keeping pace. So, cheer loud, stunt high, tumble hard—and go claim your scholarship future.
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