Bulldogs in College

NFHS provides a free online course to help you get started in your college athletics career.  The view the course go the NFHS Learning Center.

If you are interested in continuing your athletic career at the next level, you should...

1. Register for NCAA Clearinghouse

If you think that you have a chance to play at the NCAA Division I or II levels, you need to be registered with the NCAA. Make sure to go to NCAA Eligibility Center to register on their clearinghouse.

2. Focus on your grades

Many students say their junior year is their most difficult academic year. Their schedule is usually full with classes. No free periods. This is the time to focus on your grades. Make sure to stay on top of the classes you might be struggling with, get extra tutoring and be in contact with your teacher regularly.

3. Get in the weight room

The spring time is your chance to get bigger, stronger and faster. Make a commitment to the weight room. If you're serious about playing football at the next level, nothing separates you from the rest of the pack like your strength and speed. Stay on top of your attendance. If you're playing another sport, don't panic. Most college coaches prefer their athletes to be well-rounded, and understand there are many benefits from playing multiple sports.

4. Make a list of your college choices

Sit down and research colleges and universities you might want to attend. It's best to have these discussions with your parents or guardians.

5. Meet with academic counselor at school

Meet with your academic counselor to ensure your four-year high school plan is going well. Make sure you're taking the necessary courses to be NCAA eligible.

6. Video highlights

Make sure that your first 15-20 plays are the best 15-20 plays of your entire season.

7. Start to learn about the FAFSA process

The Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) is a document you'll need to fill out for financial aid. You'll need to fill this out even if you get a full-ride scholarship. Although you won't fill out the FAFSA until your senior year, it's a great idea to start doing research about this application process, especially with your parents.

8. Put together a summer camp and combine calendar

Start researching what opportunities you will have this coming summer in marketing yourself at camps and combines

Learn about the different division levels

Once you’ve determined your level of interest, talent and expectations surrounding college athletics, it’s important to consider the various division levels available to compete in:

NCAA Division I—This is the highest level of college athletics and, thus, the most competitive. DI schools typically have large budgets, expensive facilities, and the student-athletes are expected to train and travel extensively.

NCAA Division II—While still a competitive division, DII athletes are provided more balance in their lives, as training and competition aren’t as intense. Scholarships are also offered at this level.

NCAA Division III—No athletic scholarships are offered for DIII student-athletes, but there are many other forms of financial aid. The competition levels are still very high, but practice seasons are shorter, and there’s more of an academic focus.

NAIA—A much smaller community than the NCAA—with a little over 250 schools—the NAIA is a great option for student-athletes who love their sport but are looking for a smaller or private college, or a specific major.

NJCAA—Junior college (JUCO) is a good option for the student-athlete looking to get a sense of what college athletics are like at a two-year institution before transferring to a four-year college. Many student-athletes compete at the JUCO level because they are working on their NCAA eligibility or are trying to save money before transferring to a four-year college.