Cheerleading Scholarships and College Cheer: How It Works
College cheer is competitive and athletic, and some programs offer scholarships or other financial support, but what is available depends entirely on the school. There is no single rule for how much is offered, so athletes should contact each program directly. This guide explains how college cheer works and how to prepare.
How college cheer works
College squads cheer at games and many also compete. Teams hold tryouts or clinics, and athletes usually need strong tumbling, stunting and jumps, along with the grades and eligibility the school requires. Programs differ in size, schedule and level, so research each one.
Scholarships and financial support
Some programs offer scholarships, tuition help or other support to athletes, while others do not. Availability, amounts and conditions change by school and by year, so always ask the coach what is offered and what is required. For an overview of the sport and its governing body, see USA Cheer.
How to prepare
- Build your skills. Work on tumbling, stunting, jumps and dance, in school or all-star cheer.
- Go to camps and clinics. They are a way to be seen by college coaches.
- Make a skills video. Show your best skills clearly.
- Contact coaches early. Ask about tryout dates, requirements and any support offered.
- Keep your grades up. Eligibility and admission both matter.
Our guide to what coaches look for at tryouts and our cheerleading glossary can help you get ready.
College cheer uniforms
College programs usually wear custom uniforms in school colors, with warm-ups and practice wear for the whole squad. If you coach or manage a program, read our guide to college cheer uniforms. Our minimum is 10 pieces per design.
Frequently asked questions
Are there scholarships for cheerleading?
Some colleges offer scholarships or financial support to cheer athletes, but availability and amounts vary widely by school, so contact each program directly.
How do I get a college cheer scholarship?
Build a strong record in school or all-star cheer, attend college camps and tryouts, contact coaches early with a skills video and ask each program what support it offers.
Do college cheer teams hold tryouts?
Yes. Most college programs hold tryouts or clinics, and the requirements differ by school.
What do college cheer teams wear?
Most programs use custom uniforms in school colors, and many also need warm-ups and practice wear for the full squad.
