In the United States, there are many top-level cross country teams that offer university athletic scholarships. There are close to 730 athletic scholarships available for men and 800 for women; however, very few full scholarships are awarded. Partial scholarships are much more commonly awarded in combination with other grants. These grants and scholarships will cover large portions of the student’s yearly tuition, housing, food and books.
Academics: As an enthusiastic runner, your academics need to come first. Getting good marks and achieving an excellent Grade Point Average (GPA) from grade 9 to the end of high school is equal, if not more important than your running successes. Scoring high on your Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT exam) is also vital and will increase your chances of winning academic aid, in combination to your athletic scholarship. |
Featuring:
Michigan State Cross Country |
What Cross Country Coaches Look For:
Cross country is closely related to track and field, with cross country athletes expected to participate and compete in the long distance running events for the track and field team. For track athletes, their times and distances are easily measured and verifiable. Cross Country; however, is not black and white, as the terrain and environmental differences do impact on an athlete’s times. The best way to catch the attention of a cross country coach is to have a great 5km time; your 5km should be run on an athletics track instead of different terrains.
Cross country is closely related to track and field, with cross country athletes expected to participate and compete in the long distance running events for the track and field team. For track athletes, their times and distances are easily measured and verifiable. Cross Country; however, is not black and white, as the terrain and environmental differences do impact on an athlete’s times. The best way to catch the attention of a cross country coach is to have a great 5km time; your 5km should be run on an athletics track instead of different terrains.
Scholarship Standards
Men Division 1 Times: 5km – under 16:10 10km – under 35:45 Men Division 2 Times: 5km – under 17:20 10km – under 39:45 |
Women Division 1 Times: 5km – under 20:15 10km – under 37:45 Women Division 2 Times: 5km – under 21:45 10km – under 41:45 |