Can an athletic scholarship be taken away?

By Jason Bolton July 26, 2023 12:39

Photo by Kena Krutsinger/Getty Images

Athletic scholarships play a vital role in providing opportunities for talented college and high school athletes to pursue higher education while showcasing their athletic abilities. However, many students and their families often wonder if these scholarships are truly secure and if they can be taken away. In this article, we'll explore the realities surrounding athletic scholarships, their risks, and the factors that can lead to their cancellation or reduction.

Understanding Athletic Scholarships:

Athletic scholarships are primarily awarded to college and high school students based on their athletic abilities. They are commonly offered for team sports like football and basketball, but scholarships for individual sports are also available. These scholarships are regulated by the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) in the United States, with different divisions determining the rules and regulations for each level of competition.

Renewability and Underperformance: Athletic scholarships, like the one Bart had, are often renewable on a yearly basis. This means that they can be revoked due to a variety of reasons, including underperformance, injury, or coaching changes. While a four-year scholarship may initially seem more secure, it can still be canceled or reduced by the college or university.
NCAA Regulations: Colleges and universities have the authority to cancel or reduce scholarships based on four reasons stated by the NCAA. These include a student-athlete's voluntarily quitting the team, engaging in serious misconduct, providing false information, or suffering from a disabling injury. It is important for athletes to be aware of these regulations to avoid any unpleasant surprises.
Financial Impact: When an athletic scholarship is rescinded, it can have a significant financial impact on the individual and their ability to afford an education. This underscores the importance of understanding the terms and conditions of the scholarship before accepting it, as well as having alternative financial plans in place.

Research and Due Diligence: Before accepting an athletic scholarship, it is crucial to thoroughly research the college or university and its athletic program. Look into their track record of scholarship renewals and understand the factors that can lead to scholarship cancellation or reduction.
Clear Communication: Maintain open and transparent communication with the college or university's athletic department to ensure a clear understanding of the scholarship terms. Seek clarification on renewal criteria, potential risks, and the process for addressing concerns or disputes.
Performance and Professionalism: To minimize the risk of scholarship cancellation or reduction, student-athletes should focus on maintaining a high level of performance on and off the field. This includes attending practices, adhering to team rules, and prioritizing academic success.

While athletic scholarships present an incredible opportunity for student-athletes to pursue higher education while showcasing their athletic talents, it is important to understand the risks involved. Athletic scholarships can be taken away or reduced due to factors such as underperformance, injury, or coaching changes. By conducting thorough research, maintaining clear communication, and prioritizing performance and professionalism, student-athletes can better protect themselves and make informed decisions about their athletic scholarships. It is crucial to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding one's educational and athletic future.