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Division III Student Immersion Program

2025 Division III Student Immersion Program

The Division III Student Immersion Program provides Division III student-athletes an opportunity to explore the governance, leadership and operations of college athletics. Held annually in conjunction with the NCAA Convention, this all-expenses-paid experience brings approximately 40 student-athletes from across Division III to engage directly with the division’s governance structure and leadership.

Participants gain a behind-the-scenes view of how Division III operates, engage with key leaders in college athletics and take part in structured professional development, including DiSC-based learning and mentorship. The program is designed to support student-athletes who are interested in leadership development and in exploring potential careers in intercollegiate athletics.

Why Participate

Participation in the Division III Student Immersion Program provides student-athletes with opportunities to expand their understanding of governance, leadership and career pathways within Division III athletics. The program offers:

  • Exposure to Division III governance structures and NCAA Convention activities
  • Opportunities to engage with administrators, coaches and national office staff
  • Structured leadership development, including DiSC training and other professional workshops
  • Insight into potential career paths in coaching and athletics administration
  • Opportunities to build professional networks that support long-term career exploration

Eligibility

The program is intended for junior or senior Division III student-athletes who have an interest in leadership development and in pursuing a potential career in college athletics, such as coaching or administration. Selected participants must be able to attend the NCAA Convention during the dates on which the program is held.

How to Apply

During the application window (August through mid-September), eligible student-athletes submit an online application through the NCAA Program Hub. The application includes demographic information and short-answer questions related to leadership, professional goals and interest in Division III athletics. A selection committee reviews all submissions and identifies approximately 40 student-athletes from across Division III to participate each year.

Quick Guide: How to Apply in Program Hub (PDF)

Application Questions

The application includes demographic information and short-answer questions related to leadership, professional development and interest in Division III athletics. Applicants should be prepared to respond to prompts such as:

  • Interest in pursuing a career in Division III athletics (e.g., coaching or administration)
  • Perspectives on the positive impacts of athletics and how they can be reinforced
  • Perspectives on challenges within athletics and strategies for addressing them
  • Approaches to resilience, adversity and personal growth within athletics
  • How participation in the NCAA Convention would support academic, professional and leadership goals
  • Availability to attend all program activities during the NCAA Convention

Important Dates

  • Applications open: August
  • Applications close: Mid-September
  • Recipients notified: October
  • Program: January – held in conjunction with the NCAA Convention

Application Link

Applications Closed

Additional questions? Contact us at aspungen@ncaa.org