CHOOSING AN UNIVERSITY

What is the difference between the NCAA, NAIA and NJCAA?

At JFGA Scholarships, we understand that navigating the college regulatory bodies is an essential part of your collegiate athletic journey. With over 2,500 colleges and universities across the United States, it’s important to understand the key differences between the main college regulatory bodies: NCAA, NAIA (4-year schools), and NJCAA (2-year schools). College sports in America are highly popular and financially significant, with coaches having substantial budgets each year.

NCAA

The NCAA operates on a three-division system: Division I, Division II, and Division III. Division I and Division II schools have the ability to offer athletic scholarships to athletes, while Division III schools do not provide athletic scholarships. NCAA Division I is often what comes to mind when people think of playing at a U.S. college, and it is highly competitive. However, it’s important to note that student-athletes can go pro and succeed in other divisions as well. We believe that if you have the talent and dedication, you will have opportunities regardless of the division or team you play for.

NCAA Division I (4-year schools) is widely considered the highest level of intercollegiate athletics in the U.S. D1 schools are known for their major athletic programmes, larger budgets, elaborate facilities, and extensive athletic scholarship opportunities. However, a school’s Division I status is not solely based on its performance in a specific sport. Many student-athletes start at NJCAA, NAIA, or NCAA Division II and, if they excel both on the field and in the classroom, have the opportunity to transfer to Division I. GPA requirements for Division I eligibility are a minimum of 2.3 in core classes, passing at least five subjects, and achieving a satisfactory SAT score. 

NCAA Division II (4-year schools) offers an intermediate level of competition within the National Collegiate Athletic Association. It provides an alternative to both the larger and better-funded Division I programmes and the scholarship-free environment of Division III. Division II is a popular choice for international student-athletes due to fewer regulations on the number of foreign players on a roster and lower academic barriers for eligibility. NCAA Division II schools are often smaller in size compared to Division I, but they provide excellent competition and exposure. GPA requirements for Division II eligibility are a minimum of 2.2 in core classes, passing at least five subjects, and achieving a satisfactory SAT score.

NCAA Division III (4-year schools) comprises athletic programmes at colleges and universities that choose not to offer athletic scholarships to their student-athletes. It is the largest division within the NCAA, with approximately 450 member institutions. Division III schools prioritize the student-athlete experience and emphasize academic excellence. To make it financially feasible for international student-athletes, it is crucial to have a strong academic profile to rely on academic scholarships.

NAIA

The NAIA (4-year schools) is an athletic association that organizes college and university-level athletic programmes in the U.S. and Canada. It has 250 member institutions, sponsors 14 sports with 25 national championships, and is headquartered in Kansas City. NAIA schools offer athletic scholarships and provide a platform for talented international players due to fewer regulations. Many players from NAIA programmes go on to pursue professional careers.

NJCAA

The NJCAA is an association of community colleges and junior colleges (2-year schools) athletic departments throughout the U.S. It is divided into divisions and regions, with 525 member schools across 24 states. NJCAA colleges can choose to compete at the Division I, II, or III level in designated sports. Division I colleges can offer full athletic scholarships, while Division II colleges have limitations on the type of aid they can provide. Division III institutions do not offer athletically related financial assistance.

Attending a NJCAA school for two years allows student-athletes to enhance their skills and then transfer to a 4-year institute (NCAA or NAIA) to complete their degree. The level of competition in NJCAA is often on par with NAIA and NCAA Division II, making it an excellent route for players seeking higher scholarship opportunities while furthering their academic standing.

As you decide what school is right for you, consider key factors such as athletic opportunities, scholarship options, and academic profiles. At JFGA Scholarships, we are here to support and guide you on your path to finding the perfect fit within the NCAA, NAIA, or NJCAA.