Cross country FAQs
How do I improve my chances of getting a cross country scholarship?
The easiest way to improve your chances of getting a cross-country scholarship is to improve your 5K time. This is a very easy qualification for coaches to measure and the numbers won’t lie. You should also make sure you maintain a GPA of 2.5 or better to be a qualifier for the NCAA.
How do I get coaches to notice me?
Coaches don’t recruit you based on in-person evaluations in cross-country very much. They might make it to the championship meets or big invites, but usually not. If you want to run in front of coaches when it matters most, wait for the track-and-field season. Many coaches actually come to ASM Scholarships athlete search portal to find their next cross country recruits. You can build your free profile to get started today, click here >
Are cross country scholarships available?
Cross country scholarships are available to strong runners with above average times who have competed at the highest regional or national level in their respective countries. Obviously your times will always be the main factor that college coaches will base their decision on. However, as we mentioned above, your grades will also always play an important role. NCAA cross country and track and field teams are allowed to use 12.6 scholarships on the men`s side and 18 scholarships on the women`s side to fill out their roster. Considering that there are 650 teams competing in division 1 and division 2, there are plenty of scholarship opportunities available for high quqlity runners. On top of that, the NJCAA allows 20 scholarships per team. This can also be a great option for runners who want to use this league as a stepping stone to get started in the US.
Am I eligible?
Having a high enough GPA or SAT/ACT score is the most overlooked concept by student athletes looking to be recruited. Even if you are one of the best cross country runners in your region, state, or country, if you do not have the right grades, you simply will not be NCAA eligible or you will not get into the university of your dreams. Furthermore, if you do not have high enough grades to compete within the NCAA you will be what is called a “non qualifier”. This will mean you will then either need to improves your grades or attend a NJCAA college for two years. Once you have done this, you can then transfer to an NCAA school with more experience and ready to complete your bachelors degree. The ASM Scholarships team has a lot of experience and will help you determine which university is the best fit for you based on your athletic and academic level.