Athletic Scholarships
Central College is a long-time member of the NCAA Division III, where students have the opportunity to follow their dreams and discover their potential as part of nationally competitive athletics programs.
They do so because it is their passion, free of the burden and expectations that come with an athletics scholarship. Financial aid for Division III student-athletes is based solely on academic performance and financial need, the same as for any other student. More than 99 percent of Central students receive financial aid.
Division III is the NCAA’s largest division, with more than 172,000 student-athletes competing at 442 colleges and universities. Central has won NCAA national team championships in more sports (six) than any other Iowa college or university, capturing 11 titles overall. The Dutch compete at the highest levels, yet do so without sacrificing their academic dreams. Central student-athletes are also free to participate in another sport or other campus activities, and are encouraged to pursue off-campus internships and study abroad opportunities.
Central is proud to have deep roots in Division III. Retired Central president Ken Weller authored the original Division III philosophy and has been called a founding father of Division III. Former Central dean of students Marjorie Giles, who was the first female president of the Iowa Conference, served on the NCAA Council, and many other Central staff members have played leadership roles.
