The Role of Grades in Athletic Scholarships: Talent Gets You Noticed; Grades Get You In

David Logan
May 1, 2024
2 min read

Updated: Jul 7

By Spectator Sport | Athlete Development Series: College Prep & Recruiting 101

You may have the speed, skills, highlights, but do you have the grades?

Here’s the truth:

Athletic scholarships don’t just go to the best athletes, they go to the best student-athletes.

At Spectator Sport, we’ve seen it firsthand: coaches pass on talented players every season because their academics aren’t in order. If your dream is to play at the next level, your schoolwork is part of the grind.

Why Grades Matter Even If You’re “Next Level”

1. You Still Have to Get Into the School

Coaches can’t recruit you if admissions won’t accept you.

Most college athletic departments require minimum GPA/test scores before offering a roster spot.

2. Better Grades = More Scholarship Money

Many athletes get partial athletic scholarships
Academic aid + athletic aid = full ride potential
Strong GPA = more options, fewer out-of-pocket costs

3. You Show Coaches You’re Disciplined

When a coach sees a solid GPA, they see:

✅ Time management

✅ Work ethic

✅ Accountability

✅ Less risk of academic ineligibility

Grades prove you’re coachable in the classroom and on the field.

NCAA Academic Eligibility — Quick Breakdown

To compete at the D1 or D2 level, you must:

Complete 16 core courses
Maintain a minimum GPA
- D1: 2.3 (core GPA)
- D2: 2.2
Graduate from high school on time
(Optional) SAT/ACT scores; not required for eligibility, but some schools still ask

✅ Register with the NCAA Eligibility Center

GPA + Test Score = Sliding Scale

If you have a lower GPA, you’ll need a higher SAT/ACT score — and vice versa.

A strong GPA gives you breathing room. A weak GPA puts you in a corner.

Real-World Example:

Two Athletes. Same Position. Same Talent.

Athlete A: 3.7 GPA + solid test scores
Athlete B: 2.5 GPA + late transcript issues

Who gets the offer? Who gets more money? Who gets accepted into the school faster?

Always bet on the athlete who’s consistent in the classroom.

🧮 What Counts as a “Good GPA”?

GPA	Impact
3.5 – 4.0	Opens academic scholarships & elite academic schools
3.0 – 3.4	Competitive for most schools and solid support
2.5 – 2.9	Possible eligibility, but limited options
Below 2.5	Risk of ineligibility and closed doors

How to Improve or Maintain Your GPA

✅ Go to class

✅ Turn in work on time

✅ Ask for help early (don’t wait until finals)

✅ Get tutoring if needed

✅ Use study hall time wisely

✅ Cut distractions (especially during season)

Bonus: Academic Aid = Less Pressure on Coaches

If you earn academic scholarships, coaches can:

Offer less athletic money per player
Stretch their limited scholarship budget further
Take a chance on you over someone who costs more

Being easier to afford makes you more recruitable.

Final Word: The Real Ones Handle Their Business On and Off the Field

It’s simple:

Great stats + bad grades = missed opportunities
Good grades + solid performance = real offers
Great grades + great character + hustle = dream school options + more scholarship money

At Spectator Sport, we don’t just help athletes get noticed.

We help them get accepted, get eligible, and get funded.