Graduate Student Research Grant Program
The program provides funding for graduate student research examining the role of intercollegiate athletics in higher education and the college student-athlete psychosocial experience. Grants are set at a maximum of $7,500 and are available to graduate students enrolled at NCAA member institutions.
Postgraduate Scholarship Program
The program was created in 1964 to promote and encourage graduate education by rewarding the Association’s most accomplished student-athletes through their participation in NCAA championship and/or emerging sports. It provides a $10,000 one-time award given to student-athletes who have excelled academically and athletically, and who plan to pursue graduate school. Up to 126 scholarships are awarded each year—split evenly between men and women—across the fall, winter and spring sport seasons.
All former student-athletes who earned an undergraduate degree from an NCAA member school are eligible to be nominated by that school for an NCAA graduate degree scholarship, regardless of when they received their undergraduate degree.
Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship
This is the NCAA’s most prestigious academic award, established to recognize and encourage outstanding student-athletes who combine the highest levels of academic achievement with a commitment to service and leadership. Named for the NCAA’s first executive director, Walter Byers, this scholarship supports recipients as they pursue graduate study in any field of their choice.
Jim McKay Graduate Scholarship
Honoring the legacy of legendary sports broadcaster Jim McKay, this scholarship supports student-athletes who exemplify his commitment to leadership, integrity, and the pursuit of excellence in sports communications. Each year, the NCAA awards this prestigious scholarship to one female and one male student-athlete who have demonstrated outstanding academic achievement, meaningful involvement in athletics and a clear passion for a career in sports communication or media.
Accelerating Career Development Award Program
This program strengthens academic achievement and supports graduation at historically under-funded Division I institutions. The AASP Student-Athlete Career Development Award recognizes student-athletes at AASP-eligible schools who are committed to careers in intercollegiate athletics and invests in their professional growth through immersive NCAA programming and industry networking.
Division I Degree Completion Award Program
This program was established in 1989 to provide financial assistance to student-athletes who wish to complete their education within their five-year eligibility period. Applicants must be former student-athletes who have exhausted their athletic eligibility. The award covers tuition, fees, and provides an allowance for textbooks and other related expenses.
To date, the program has awarded over $30 million to over 2,900 deserving student-athletes. 90 percent have successfully received their undergraduate degree using this program.
Division II Degree Completion Award Program
The NCAA is committed to helping Division II student-athletes complete their undergraduate education, even after their athletics eligibility has been exhausted. The Division II Degree Completion Award Program provides financial assistance to former student-athletes who return to campus to finish their degrees.