So, you are a high school student, and the important factor is that you are an athlete!!! Why not utilize your love for sports for your own good? Yes, it is right, no matter whether you are a freshman or senior it's gonna help you anyway. You just have to know where to apply and how you are going to crack it.
Athlete Scholarships for High School Students
There are plenty of scholarships that can help turn your dreams into reality. Let’s dive into some fantastic opportunities that reward your athletic prowess, academic achievements, and community involvement. Whether you’re on the field, court, or track, there’s something for you!
1. Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program
Amount: $20,000 (awarded to 20 students)
Eligibility: This scholarship is for graduating high school seniors who have participated in a school sports team or community-based sports program. Applicants must plan to enroll full-time at an accredited four-year college or university in the U.S., be U.S. citizens or permanent residents, and have a minimum GPA of 3.0.
Selection prioritizes candidates who demonstrate good sportsmanship, strong moral character, academic excellence, and community involvement. Ideal applicants are confident leaders from diverse backgrounds who embody the qualities of a Foot Locker Scholar Athlete: proactive, motivated, inspiring, charismatic, genuine, strong, and courageous. The top applicant receives the Ken C. Hicks Scholarship.
Why It’s Awesome: This isn't just about your killer game stats. The Foot Locker Scholar Athletes Program is on the lookout for high school seniors who can juggle sports, school, and community service like a pro. It’s all about recognizing those who shine brightly in athletics and academics while also stepping up as leaders in their communities.
Get Involved: Are you the type who’s always pushing boundaries, whether on the field or in class? This scholarship celebrates students who show leadership in unexpected places. Think of it as a spotlight on your ability to excel in multiple arenas while making a difference in your community.
2. Gatorade Player of the Year
Amount: Varies by state and sport
Eligibility: Awarded to the best high school athletes in each state across various sports(Football, Boys & Girls Cross Country, Volleyball, Boys & Girls Basketball, Boys & Girls Soccer, Softball, Baseball, Boys & Girls Track & Field).
Why It’s Legendary: Picture this: you're named the top high school athlete in your state! That’s what the Gatorade Player of the Year is all about. It’s not just about your athletic skills but also your academic success and sportsmanship. Review of GPA and class rank, as well as SAT and ACT scores, and academic honors distinctions.
How It Works: Each year, one standout athlete from each state is chosen across various sports. But it doesn’t stop there! Winners at the state level get a shot at the national award, which opens up even more scholarship opportunities and puts you on a fast track to greatness.
3. Wendy’s High School Heisman Scholarship
Amount: Up to $5,000
Eligibility: High school seniors who participate in at least one school-sponsored sport, maintain a minimum GPA of 3.0, and demonstrate leadership in school and community activities.If you're one of the 1.4 million high school athletes who excel academically, athletically, and in your community, apply now for the Heisman High School Scholarship. We seek outstanding seniors from over 29,000 U.S. high schools, including those involved in various sports and activities.
Whyyy: If you're the type who loves a challenge, this scholarship is for you. It’s all about honoring high school seniors who balance sports with academic excellence and community leadership. Basically, it’s a nod to the real MVPs in life—those who excel in every aspect.
Who Can Apply: Do you participate in at least one school-sponsored sport, maintain a 3.0 GPA, and lead by example in your school and community? Then you’re a perfect candidate for this award. It’s not just a scholarship; it’s a badge of honor for being an all-around superstar.
Story of George Cheng:
George Cheng turned his family's challenges with diabetes into a mission to improve healthcare. A top STEM student, he developed a $3-a-day wearable patch for Type 2 Diabetes and published his work in leading journals, winning first place at the Regeneron ISEF.
He founded STEMable, a nonprofit providing free STEM kits to underprivileged rural communities, prompting increased STEM funding and new educational programs in North Carolina. George aims to become a bioengineer and entrepreneur focused on affordable healthcare solutions. His community work includes supporting the homeless, pediatric cancer fundraising, early learning advocacy, and climate justice. George also values sports for mental resilience and entrepreneurial skills.
4. Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship
Amount: Up to $30,000 over four years
Eligibility: Minority high school seniors who show leadership potential, demonstrate a dedication to community service, and have financial need. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship application includes several components: one recommendation letter, demographic details, high school information with an unofficial transcript, and your college plans. Optional test scores (AP, IB, PSAT, ACT, or SAT) can be included. Additionally, you'll need to provide information about your activities, distinctions, and household, and complete four essays.
Why It’s Important: Named after the legendary Jackie Robinson, this scholarship is about breaking barriers and building bridges. It’s aimed at minority high school seniors who demonstrate leadership, community service, and financial need.
Athletic Edge: While it’s not exclusively an athletic scholarship, students with strong athletic involvement and leadership qualities often stand out. It’s a great way to honor Jackie Robinson’s legacy by continuing to break new ground in sports and education.
5. Michael & Susan Dell Foundation Scholarship
Amount: $20,000
Eligibility: Graduating high school seniors with a minimum 2.4 GPA who have participated in a community sport, plan to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program immediately after graduation and demonstrate financial need.
Why You’ll Love It: This scholarship is like a lifeline for students from low-income backgrounds who are determined to make it big in college and beyond. If you've been involved in community sports and are ready to hit the books in a bachelor’s degree program, this is for you.
Making a Difference: It’s designed for those who have faced challenges but are ready to succeed with grit and determination. It’s about showing that your past doesn’t define your future and giving you the tools to build the life you want.
6. Positive Coaching Alliance Triple-Impact Competitor Scholarship
Amount: $1,000 to $2,000
Eligibility: High school juniors who strive to improve themselves, their teammates, and the game overall. Eligibility extends to any high school junior residing anywhere in the U.S. and playing for a high school team or in club sports!
Why It’s a Game Changer: This scholarship is for high school juniors who strive to improve themselves, their teammates, and the game overall. If you're all about making a positive impact, this is the place to shine.
What You’ll Do: To apply, you’ll need to submit essays and recommendations that highlight your commitment to being a Triple-Impact Competitor—someone who excels personally, helps their team, and contributes to their community. It’s all about being a beacon of positivity and leadership.
7. National Merit Scholarship Corporation (NMSC)
Amount: Varies
Eligibility: High school athletes who have demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, academic excellence, and leadership skills.
Why It’s Prestigious: While it’s not solely for athletes, this scholarship recognizes students who have demonstrated outstanding athletic ability, academic excellence, and leadership skills. It’s perfect for student-athletes who excel academically.
How to Qualify: NMSC awards a range of scholarships based on PSAT/NMSQT scores, academic records, and other achievements. If you’re scoring high both in the classroom and in your sport, this could be your ticket to scholarship success.
8. Scholarship for Athletes
Amount: Varies by sport and institution
Eligibility: High school athletes aiming to play their sport at the collegiate level. Requirements vary by college and athletic division.
Why It’s Essential: Many colleges and universities offer athletic scholarships based on recruitment and performance. These are your tickets to playing at the collegiate level while getting your education funded.
What to Do: Start reaching out to college coaches, attend showcases, and keep your academic and athletic records strong. Each college and athletic division has different requirements, so it’s important to do your homework and make those connections early.