What is Division II?

NCAA Division II is home to nearly 300 colleges and universities that share a unique approach to college sports. The division is built on the philosophy of “Life in the Balance,” meaning student-athletes are encouraged to excel not only in athletics, but also in academics, personal growth and community involvement. Division II institutions typically offer a partial scholarship model, regionally focused competition and a campus environment where athletics are integrated into the broader student experience. This balance creates opportunities for student-athletes to thrive both on and off the field.

Highlights of Division II

• Nearly 300 colleges and universities nationwide.
• “Life in the Balance” philosophy emphasizing academics, athletics and community.
• Partial scholarship model combining athletic, academic and merit aid.
• Regionally focused competition that reduces travel demands.
• Strong emphasis on student-athlete well-being and graduation success.

Why choose Division II?

Division II offers a college experience that combines the excitement of competition with the flexibility to pursue academics, leadership, and life outside of sports. Student-athletes at Division II schools are supported to succeed in the classroom, develop their skills on the field, and stay connected to their communities. For families, coaches and prospective students, Division II represents an attractive balance: meaningful competition, personalized attention, and strong outcomes after graduation.

Reasons to Consider Division II

• Competitive athletics with opportunities for regional rivalries and national championships.
• Manageable travel and scheduling that allow more time for academics and campus life.
• Financial flexibility through a mix of athletic, academic, and merit-based scholarships.
• Smaller campuses and close-knit communities that foster personal connections.
• Strong track record of preparing student-athletes for careers and life beyond sports.

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The Distinguishing Dozen:

12 characteristics that set DII apart

1. Graduation rates. Division II student-athlete graduation rate is consistently higher than that of the total student body. Division II also features a high number of first-generation college students, thus increasing the access to education.
2. Academic emphasis. Division II’s regionalization philosophy in scheduling results in limited missed class time for student-athletes.
3. Athletics scholarships. The partial athletics scholarship model rewards athletics ability while allowing student-athletes to earn other sources of financial aid. 
4. Balanced bottom line. The median expense for Division II athletics programs is millions of dollars less than for their Division I counterparts. 
5. Favorable admission rates. Division II membership is split almost evenly between public and private institutions. On average, Division II schools have the highest admission rate (70 percent, versus 62-63 percent in the other two divisions).
6. Community engagement. Through student-athlete leadership, Division II has enjoyed long-term and successful partnerships with the Make-A-Wish Foundation, Team IMPACT and military groups. In addition, Division II conducts community engagement activities at all championships final sites.
7. Positive game environment. Division II members pledge to conduct athletics contests in a family-friendly environment that is civil and entertaining.
8. Unique geographical footprint. Division II is the only NCAA division with schools in Alaska (Anchorage and Fairbanks), Puerto Rico (Bayamon, Mayaguez and Rio Piedras) and Canada (Simon Fraser).
9. National championship opportunities. Division II features unparalleled opportunity for student-athletes to advance to national championship competition as a result of the division’s generous championship access ratios (the highest among the three NCAA divisions).
10. National Championships Festivals. Division II is the only NCAA division that conducts “National Championships Festivals,” Olympic-style events in which a number of national championships are held at a single site over a period of several days
11. Make It Yours. This student-athlete-driven brand enhancement strengthens awareness among external audiences by clearly communicating the experience Division II schools create for student-athletes.
12. Diversity and inclusion. Matching grants encourage access, recruitment, selection, and the long-term success of ethnic minorities and women in administration and coaching.

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