Wrestling is a highly competitive sport that offers student-athletes opportunities to earn scholarships and continue their athletic careers while pursuing a college degree. If you’re a high school wrestler looking for financial aid, this guide will help you understand how wrestling scholarships work and highlight some of the best colleges offering them.
How Wrestling Scholarships Work
Colleges offer wrestling scholarships to talented athletes based on their performance, academic standing, and potential contribution to the team. These scholarships can be either full-ride or partial, covering tuition, housing, meals, and other expenses.
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Scholarships are primarily available in two divisions:
- NCAA Division I & II: Schools in these divisions can offer athletic scholarships, though the number varies per team.
- NAIA & NJCAA: These schools also provide wrestling scholarships, and some may offer more flexible financial aid options.
Best Colleges Offering Wrestling Scholarships
1. Penn State University
Penn State’s wrestling program is one of the strongest in the country, consistently producing NCAA champions. The school offers athletic scholarships for top recruits and provides access to world-class coaching and training facilities.
2. University of Iowa
The Hawkeyes have a rich wrestling tradition and provide strong scholarship opportunities. Their program is known for developing elite wrestlers and preparing them for international competitions.
3. Oklahoma State University
A powerhouse in college wrestling, Oklahoma State offers competitive scholarships to high-performing athletes. The team has won multiple NCAA championships, making it a great destination for serious wrestlers.
4. Ohio State University
Ohio State’s wrestling program is among the best, with strong financial aid packages for student-athletes. The school’s wrestling scholarships help cover tuition and other college expenses for top recruits.
5. University of Minnesota
This Big Ten school has a strong wrestling program and offers a mix of full and partial scholarships to talented athletes. The Gophers have a history of producing NCAA champions and Olympic wrestlers.
6. Cornell University
While Ivy League schools don’t offer traditional athletic scholarships, Cornell provides financial aid packages that support student-athletes. Their wrestling program is highly competitive and consistently ranks among the best.
7. Lehigh University
Lehigh is known for its strong wrestling program and offers both athletic scholarships and need-based financial aid to wrestlers who qualify.
8. Arizona State University
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Arizona State’s wrestling team competes at a high level and offers scholarship opportunities for student-athletes with strong records. The university provides excellent training facilities and coaching.
9. North Carolina State University
NC State has a growing wrestling program with strong scholarship options. They invest in developing talent and offer financial assistance to promising recruits.
10. University of Missouri
Missouri’s wrestling program is highly respected and provides scholarship opportunities for talented athletes. Their coaching staff is dedicated to helping wrestlers succeed on and off the mat.
How to Get a Wrestling Scholarship
- Maintain Strong Grades: Colleges look for student-athletes who perform well academically. Keep your GPA up and take standardized tests seriously.
- Build a Highlight Reel: Create a video showcasing your best matches, technical skills, and work ethic on the mat.
- Attend Wrestling Camps: Many college programs host summer camps where coaches scout for talent. Participating in these can increase your chances of getting noticed.
- Reach Out to Coaches: Contact college wrestling coaches directly with your stats, match videos, and academic records to express your interest.
- Compete in High-Level Tournaments: The more exposure you get in national or state competitions, the better your chances of earning a scholarship.
Final Thoughts
Wrestling scholarships can help athletes achieve their dreams of competing at the collegiate level while earning a degree. By choosing the right college and taking the right steps, you can secure funding for your education and continue to grow as a wrestler. If you’re serious about wrestling, start your scholarship search early and make yourself stand out to recruiters.
