Q:  How do I assist my daughter in her recruitment process?
A:  The recruitment process can be overwhelming, especially for families engaging in the process for the first time.  Support your daughter by exploring the options available to her at each institution, academically and athletically.  Help her discover an institution that will be a good fit for her personally, as well as in the classroom and on the mat.  Encourage her to be the one to communicate with coaches at the schools she is interested in attending.  Become informed on the processes involved in recruitment, especially the academic requirements for initial eligibility at a NCAA or NAIA institution.
 
Q:  What are the academic benchmarks my daughter must meet to be eligible? 
A:  Visit the NCAA and NAIA eligibility centers to learn more about core course, minimum GPA, and minimum test score requirements.  It’s important to start early to ensure all requirements may be met prior to her high school graduation.  During the recruitment process, it’s important to discuss academic requirements with the coach or admissions representative at institutions of interest. Work closely with a high school counselor to ensure your daughter is on track with NCAA and/or NAIA academic requirements.
 
Q:  What type of financial aid is available?
A:  Colleges and universities may offer financial aid beyond athletic scholarships in the form of awards or grants based on academic performance, community service, other extracurricular activities, and/or financial need. This will differ by division and by institution – inquire with coaches for more information. It’s important to complete a FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) to assist in the process.

Q: Will my daughter receive a full ride like in NCAA Gymnastics?
A:  There are two types of scholarships awarded at the NCAA level – head count (commonly referred to as full ride) and equivalency (commonly referred to as partial).  Acrobatics & Tumbling programs award equivalency scholarships; meaning one full scholarship may be split among student-athletes.  Scholarship opportunities at each institution differ, so include a question about what is currently available in your discussion with each coach.
 
Q:  How can I learn more about the student-athlete experience in this sport?
A:  There are several ways to learn more about the potential student-athlete experience before your daughter selects a college or university to attend. 

• We encourage you and your daughter to attend meets or watch online. The NCATA Schedule page has a listing of all competitions for each season, as the season approaches, links for video broadcast will be added (as availble) for competing teams.
• Get a feel for a campus by registering for a camp or by participating in campus tours or events. 
• Follow schools your daughter is interested in on social media as well as @theNCATA for sport updates.