Important Dates
- Nominations open: Sept. 15, 2025
- Nominations close: Jan. 5, 2026, at 5 p.m. EST
- Finalists notified: Early March
- Virtual interviews: March 13, 2026
The Walter Byers Graduate Scholarship is the NCAA’s most prestigious academic award. Named for the NCAA’s first executive director, the scholarship honors student-athletes who exemplify the highest levels of academic achievement, leadership and service. Each year, one female and one male recipient receive up to $48,000 to pursue graduate study in any field at an accredited insitution, which awards provided at $24,000 annually and renewable for a second year.
Graduating senior student-athletes from NCAA member institutions with a cumulative GPA of 3.50 or higher who have competed at the varsity level.
Nominations submitted by the institution’s Faculty Athletics Representative (FAR) or designated administrator. Finalists are interviewed virtually before final selection.
Nonrenewable scholarship for graduate study. Recipients must enroll full-time in an accredited graduate program.
Two recipients selected annually, one female, one male, each receiving up to $48,000 toward graduate study ($24,000 annually, renewable for a second year).
Why Apply?
Fund your graduate education with a $24,000 award that can be applied toward tuition, fees, books and other expenses at any accredited graduate program.
Support your pursuit of any field of graduate study, with the flexibility to attend the institution and program that best fits your goals.
Recognize your standing as one of only two student-athletes nationally selected each year for the NCAA’s most prestigious academic award.
Elevate your profile by joining a distinguished group of Walter Byers Scholars who exemplify the highest combination of academic, athletic and personal achievement.
Through a competitive nomination and review process, Walter Byers Scholars are selected as some of the most accomplished student-athletes in college sports — recognized for excellence in the classroom, in competition and in their communities.
Eligibility
- Must be a graduating senior at an NCAA member institution.
- Must have competed in intercollegiate athletics at the varsity level.
- Must have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.50 on a 4.00 scale.
- Must intend to enroll full-time in an accredited graduate program.
- Must demonstrate exceptional character, leadership and service.