Division II is where a large share of scholarship athletes play — competitive athletics at schools that are usually smaller than D1, with a schedule that leaves room for academics. Here is how D2 recruiting differs.
Division II at a glance
| Division II | |
|---|---|
| Active schools | 293 |
| Student-athletes | About 133,000 |
| Athletes receiving athletics aid | 64% |
| Median undergraduate enrollment | 2,169 |
| Students who are athletes | 1 in 7 |
When D2 coaches can contact you
The NCAA’s 2025-26 Division II recruiting guide allows coaches to send recruiting materials and to communicate by email, text, phone and social media at any time. In-person recruiting is more limited: official visits begin June 15 before your junior year. Division II uses recruiting reminders rather than the detailed recruiting calendars of Division I.
D2 scholarships
Most D2 sports split a set number of equivalency scholarships across the roster, so partial awards are the norm. Coaches stretch their budget by combining athletic aid with academic scholarships, which makes your grades part of the offer. The 2025 House settlement changed Division I only; D2 limits did not change.
Eligibility
A 2.2 GPA in 16 NCAA-approved core courses, a high-school diploma, and an Academic and Athletics Certification account with the NCAA Eligibility Center. SAT and ACT scores are not required for eligibility.
Who D2 suits
Athletes who want to compete at a high level and receive athletic aid, at a smaller school, often closer to home. Strong D2 programs are as good as many D1 teams in some sports. Compare yourself with current D2 rosters at your position to judge the fit.
Common mistakes
- Ignoring D2 until D1 programs stop replying.
- Expecting a full scholarship as the default.
- Letting grades slide — academic aid is often half the package.