One of the hardest concepts of the recruiting process is understanding the differences between the division levels in college sports.
Division 1 is the best hands down (as I’m sure you’re aware).
But don’t discount the other levels.
The Levels of College Sports
You may be under the impression that there is a linear distribution between levels.
It may look something like this:
Most people think that each level is in its own bucket.
D1 is the best, with JUCO being the worst.
The best players, coaches, facilities, and teams are D1 – and the worst are JUCO.
While this may be true for some schools – there is much more congruency than you were originally led to believe.
In actuality, all the levels are overlapped.
For example, there are Division 1 talented players at all the levels. Whether that’s because they got overlooked, had bad grades, or transferred is irrelevant.
Most families are unfamiliar with the NAIA, which is a shame, because they offer full athletic scholarships and the talent level is closer to Division 2 than Division 3.
Let’s simplify this by taking a look at each level.
NCAA Division 1
The most sought after level of college sports.
- most athletic scholarship money provided at the Division 1 level
- best of everything – gear, facilities, advisors, coaches, tutors, trainers, and more
- internships, long breaks, and part-time jobs are pretty much out of the question
It is also the highest competition level overall (some low D1’s are closer to top D2’s).
- competition for your spot on the team is fierce
- will travel across the country for games
- balancing athletics, academics, and social life is an adjustment
Super hard to make it Division 1 – getting harder each year with all the transfers.
- you’re elite if you can make it on a D1 roster
- so many good players…need to stand out to make it D1
NCAA Division 2
Slightly below Division 1, but still great talent with a slightly more balanced approach.
- perfect for those who may prefer a smaller campus
- or the opportunity to get playing time all four years
- scholarships are available along with financial aid
Very high-level of competition.
- lots of players who slipped through the cracks
- not as time constraining as Division 1
Top D2 teams usually have a solid amount of D1 transfers.
- D2 has some ballers!
NCAA Division 3
More well-rounded college experience with academics taking the lead.
- for student-athletes who truly love their sport
- no athletic scholarships available
- financial assistance is provided (better grades = more merit aid)
Still great competition at the D3 level.
- great players at D3 schools
- will be more a part of the college community
- travel is local w/ bus rides being the norm
- lots of high-academic private institutions
Want to learn more about NCAA D3?
- Check out the NCAA’s website here
NAIA
There is Division 1 and Division 2 within the NAIA, but I’ll be combining both here.
Most overlooked and underrated level of college sports.
- best comparison is a mixture between D2 and D3
- scholarships are available along with financial aid
More families should explore this level.
- great competition (players and coaches)
- lots of money given to student-athletes
- balanced academic and athletic schedule
- travel is mostly local/regional
Want to learn more about the NAIA?
- Check out their website: NAIA.org
JUCO
Junior college is often a great stepping stone to playing at a higher level.
- best path to getting a four-year college roster spot
- or a chance to stay close to home, earn college credit, and continue athletic career
Lots of talented coaches and players.
- D1 bouncebacks – whether bad grades, injuries, or a past mistake
- coaches with a passion for helping kids get a 2nd chance
- full and partial scholarships are available
- travel is mostly local/regional
Want to learn more about JUCO?
- Last Chance U on Netflix is awesome
Finding The Right Fit
Academic Fit:
If your GPA or test scores were to go up a few points, how many new doors might open?
Also, think about what you’d like to study in college and how much time you need to focus on academics outside of your sport.
Ask the coaches how other athletes manage their course loads and what majors teammates are studying.
Athletic Fit:
While Division 1 offers a high level of competition, a small % of high school players go on to play at that level.
Focus your efforts on finding the division level that is the best for you. Target schools where you can make a valuable contribution to the team.
That might be Division 2, Division 3, NAIA or even junior colleges, all of which offer great opportunities and a form of either financial aid or scholarships.
Financial Fit:
How much can you afford and how much aid are you eligible to receive at each school?
Athletic scholarships are only one form of financial aid, and amounts can vary depending on a number of factors.
Cost should be top-of-mind when pursuing programs—be sure to find out what kind of financial aid and scholarship options are available at each school you consider.
Social Fit:
This will be your home for the next four years, so you’ll want to choose a school where you’ll be comfortable.
Soak in the environment when you go on campus visits.
See if you can picture yourself there. Don’t forget to consider how far away from home it is and even the weather.
Which Level is Best For You?
Playing in college is an honor no matter what the level.
There are great players, coaches, and programs at each.
Every student-athlete/family has a unique journey. There is no exact formula for me to give you through this article.
I would have to understand your situation, circumstances, interests – along with your highlights, grades, and stats.
If you have questions make sure to subscribe and you’ll gain access to my contact information so I can help answer your questions.
There are great opportunities available at all the levels. I urge you to explore all the possible options.
Recap of College Levels:
Let’s take a look at the division levels of college sports from a 30,000 foot view.
NCAA Division 1:
- This is the highest level of college athletics and, thus, the most competitive. DI schools typically have large budgets, expensive facilities, and the student-athletes are expected to train and travel extensively throughout the year.
NCAA Division 2:
- While still a competitive division, DII athletes are provided more balance in their lives, as training and competition aren’t as intense. Athletic scholarships are also offered at this level.
NCAA Division 3:
- No athletic scholarships are offered, but there are many other forms of financial aid. The competition levels are still good, but there’s more of an academic focus and less time commitment.
I have previously broken down the differences between D1, D2, and D3.
NAIA:
- A much smaller community than the NCAA—with about 250 schools—the NAIA is a great option for student-athletes who love their sport but are looking for a smaller or private college, or a specific major. Scholarships are offered at this level as well.
JUCO:
- Junior college (JUCO) is a good option for student-athletes looking to get a sense of what college athletics are like at a two-year institution before transferring to a four-year college. Many student-athletes compete at the JUCO level because they are working on their NCAA eligibility or are trying to save money.
Different Division Levels of College Sports Podcast
The other week I recorded a podcast with Karl Barkley (D3 Direct) and William Payne (former NAIA coach) – we broke down the different division levels of college sports.
You can listen to it here:
