Collegiate Swimming Resources
This page is designed to give Greenwood Tiger Sharks (GTS) swimmers the tools and resources needed to pursue their goals of becoming collegiate student-athletes.
With over 600 collegiate swimming programs across the U.S., there is a place for every athlete. The recruiting process has evolved in recent years, and more platforms than ever now exist to support student-athletes on their journey.
The GTS coaching staff is committed to supporting our swimmers through every step of the decision-making and recruiting process—including school selection, communication, and scholarship opportunities.
Start by reviewing the College Swimming Recruiting Handbook and the official resources listed below.
Important for GTS Juniors
All GTS juniors must be registered with the NCAA Eligibility Center by the end of junior year.
Failure to register will make you ineligible for collegiate recruitment.
Register Here – NCAA Eligibility Center
Where to Begin: College Swimming & Recruiting
College Recruiting & Making Your Decision
-
One Swimmer’s Account of the College Recruiting Process (Insert link)
College Recruiting Questionnaires
-
Filling out a recruiting questionnaire for programs you’re interested in is one of the best ways to get noticed.
-
During freshman/sophomore year, coaches may send paper or electronic forms.
-
After junior year begins, official recruiting materials can be sent.
-
Target your top 5–10 schools with completed questionnaires.
-
Submit completed forms to your coach for team tracking.
College Recruiting Timeline
Official vs. Unofficial Visits
-
Official Visit: Paid in part or full by the school. You may take up to 5, and only one per school.
-
Unofficial Visit: Paid by the student/family. You may take unlimited unofficial visits at any time.
➤ More on Unofficial Visits
Recruiting Calls
College coaches will contact athletes once NCAA regulations allow. Be prepared to speak confidently about your goals and ask thoughtful questions.
Signing in Fall vs. Spring
Wondering when to sign your National Letter of Intent (NLI)?
When Should You Sign?
Scholarships, Eligibility & NIL (Name, Image, Likeness)
When Should I Ask About Scholarships?
Scholarships are highly competitive. Most incoming student-athletes do not receive athletic aid. Many are considered “walk-ons.”
What Are My Chances of a Scholarship?
Athletic Scholarships by Division
| Division | Men’s Scholarships | Women’s Scholarships |
|---|---|---|
| NCAA Division I | 9.9 | 14.0 |
| NCAA Division II | 8.1 | 8.1 |
| NCAA Division III | 0 | 0 |
| NAIA | 8.0 | 8.0 |
| NJCAA | 15.0 | 15.0 |
Note: NCAA athletic scholarships are one-year renewable contracts. A school cannot revoke a scholarship due to performance, injury, or results within the contract year. Scholarships can be withdrawn due to ineligibility, misconduct, or voluntary team withdrawal.
🚫 Myth: "Four-year full rides" do not exist. All scholarships are reviewed and renewed annually.
Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL)
As of July 2021, NCAA student-athletes are permitted to earn compensation for their Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL). This includes income from social media, sponsorships, brand endorsements, clinics, merchandise, and more.
NIL income does not affect athletic eligibility if earned in compliance with school, conference, and NCAA guidelines.
NCAA Eligibility by Division
-
Division Requirements:
NAIA Eligibility
Helpful Links & Recruiting Platforms