As participation in high school and youth bowling programs continues to surge, more and more students are setting their sights on earning a college bowling scholarship.
Bowling has grown exponentially as a competitive collegiate sport, with over 200 schools now sponsoring men’s and/or women’s varsity bowling teams.
For prospective student-athletes who have honed their skills on the lanes, the opportunity to parlay that talent into affordable higher education is an enticing prospect.
Bowling scholarships can provide significant financial relief, covering a large portion if not all of a student’s tuition, room and board, and other expenses.
At the same time, being part of a college bowling program offers valuable opportunities for athletic development, academic support, and building a lifelong network.
If you’re a high-achieving bowler looking to take your game to the next level, it’s important to understand the landscape of collegiate bowling scholarships.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the benefits of bowling scholarships, highlight some of the top college bowling programs in the country, and provide tips to maximize your chances of securing this coveted award.
The Value of Bowling Scholarships
Earning a college bowling scholarship can be a game-changer when it comes to making higher education more accessible and affordable. While the dollar amounts can vary widely, these awards typically range from several thousand dollars up to the full cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses.
According to the National Collegiate Bowling Coaches Association (NCBCA), the average bowling scholarship for the 2022-2023 academic year was around $10,000. However, top recruit-level bowlers at elite programs can potentially receive a full ride, valued at over $50,000 per year at many private universities.
Beyond the immediate financial benefits, bowling scholarships also provide student-athletes with valuable academic support services. This can include access to tutoring, study halls, career counseling, and other resources to help ensure their success in the classroom. Many colleges even have specialized academic advisors solely dedicated to supporting their varsity athletes.
Of course, earning a bowling scholarship is no easy feat. Prospective student-athletes must demonstrate an exceptional level of skill, dedication, and academic achievement.
Most colleges require minimum GPA and standardized test score requirements, in addition to proven on-lane performance. However, for those who meet the criteria, a bowling scholarship can open the door to an exceptional college experience.
Top Colleges With Bowling Scholarships
As bowling has risen in popularity as a collegiate sport, a growing number of schools have added varsity or club-level bowling teams to their athletic offerings. While the sport is particularly strong in the Midwest and South, you’ll find quality bowling programs spread across the country.
Here’s a closer look at 10 of the top colleges and universities that offer bowling scholarships:
University of Nebraska-Lincoln
The Nebraska Cornhuskers boast one of the most successful and decorated bowling programs in the NCAA. The women’s team has won a record 18 national championships, including 8 titles in the last 15 years. The men’s team has also claimed 5 national crowns.
Nebraska offers a robust bowling scholarship program, with full-ride scholarships available for elite recruits. The team’s academic support system has also helped Husker bowlers maintain a strong track record in the classroom. In 2022, the women’s bowling team posted a cumulative 3.72 GPA, the highest of any sport at the university.
Beyond the athletic facilities, Nebraska is home to a vibrant campus life, with over 600 student organizations and a thriving Greek life community. Lincoln also provides a quintessential college town experience, with a lively downtown district and ample opportunities for recreation.
Wichita State University
Located in the heart of Kansas, Wichita State University has quietly built one of the premier bowling programs in the country. Both the men’s and women’s teams have won multiple national championships, most recently in 2019 and 2021 respectively.
The Shockers’ bowling scholarships are among the most generous in the nation, with full rides available for top recruits. Wichita State also provides outstanding academic support, with specialized tutoring, mentoring, and career development resources for student-athletes.
Outside of bowling, Wichita State offers over 200 academic programs across seven degree-granting colleges. The university is recognized for its innovation in fields like engineering, business, and the performing arts. Campus life is vibrant, with over 250 student organizations and a thriving Greek community.
McKendree University
A small private university located just outside of St. Louis, McKendree has established itself as a powerhouse in collegiate bowling. The Bearcats’ women’s team has won the last five national championships, while the men’s program has also claimed multiple titles.
McKendree offers highly competitive bowling scholarships, with full rides available for elite recruits. The university’s academic support system has also helped student-athletes excel in the classroom, with the bowling teams consistently posting some of the highest GPAs on campus.
Beyond athletics, McKendree is known for its challenging liberal arts curriculum, with over 50 undergraduate majors across the sciences, humanities, and professional fields. The campus culture is vibrant, with over 60 student clubs and organizations, as well as popular annual events like homecoming and family weekends.
Webber International University
Situated in central Florida, Webber International University has built one of the most dominant bowling programs in the NAIA. The Warriors’ women’s team has won 9 national championships since 2010, while the men’s squad has claimed 3 titles.
Webber offers generous bowling scholarships, with full rides available for top-tier recruits. The university also provides comprehensive academic support, including tutoring, mentoring, and career planning services for student-athletes.
In addition to its athletic success, Webber is recognized for its innovative business-focused curriculum, with programs in fields like entrepreneurship, hospitality management, and sport management. The campus experience is further enriched by over 30 student organizations, intramural sports, and an active Greek life.
William Penn University
Nestled in the small town of Oskaloosa, Iowa, William Penn University has quietly built one of the most dominant bowling programs in the NAIA. The Statesmen and Statswomen have combined to win 12 national championships since 2010.
William Penn offers highly competitive bowling scholarships, with full rides available for elite recruits. The university also provides robust academic support, including tutoring, study halls, and specialized advising for student-athletes.
Beyond its athletic prowess, William Penn is known for its tight-knit campus community and emphasis on hands-on, experiential learning. The university offers over 40 undergraduate majors across the liberal arts, sciences, and professional fields. Campus life is further enriched by over 30 student clubs and organizations.
Lindenwood University
Located just outside of St. Louis, Lindenwood University has emerged as a force to be reckoned with in collegiate bowling. The Lions’ women’s team has won 5 national championships since 2015, while the men’s squad has also found podium success.
Lindenwood offers generous bowling scholarships, with full rides available for top recruits. The university also provides comprehensive academic support services, including tutoring, mentoring, and career planning assistance for student-athletes.
Beyond its athletic reputation, Lindenwood is recognized for its strong academic programs in business, education, and the liberal arts. The university boasts a vibrant campus life, with over 100 student organizations, intramural sports, and a thriving Greek community.
Calumet College of St. Joseph
Nestled in the heart of Northwest Indiana, Calumet College of St. Joseph has quietly built one of the most successful bowling programs in the NAIA. The Crimson Wave’s women’s team has won 4 national championships since 2015, while the men’s squad has also found consistent podium finishes.
Calumet College offers highly competitive bowling scholarships, with full rides available for elite recruits. The university also provides robust academic support services, including tutoring, mentoring, and career development assistance for student-athletes.
In addition to its athletic prowess, Calumet College is known for its small class sizes, personalized learning environment, and focus on experiential education. The university offers over 30 undergraduate programs across the liberal arts, sciences, and professional fields.
Vanderbilt University
As one of the most prestigious academic institutions in the country, Vanderbilt University has also emerged as a force in collegiate bowling. The Commodores’ women’s team has won 2 national championships in the last 5 years, while the men’s squad has regularly finished in the top 10.
Vanderbilt provides generous bowling scholarships, with full rides available for top-tier recruits. The university also offers outstanding academic support, with specialized tutoring, mentoring, and career development services for student-athletes.
Beyond its athletic achievements, Vanderbilt is renowned for its rigorous liberal arts curriculum, cutting-edge research, and vibrant campus life. The university boasts over 500 student organizations, numerous intramural and club sports, and a thriving Greek life community.
Savannah State University
Located in the historic coastal city of Savannah, Georgia, Savannah State University has built one of the most successful bowling programs in Division I. The Tigers’ women’s team has won 3 national championships since 2015, while the men’s squad has also found consistent podium finishes.
Savannah State offers highly competitive bowling scholarships, with full rides available for elite recruits. The university also provides robust academic support services, including tutoring, mentoring, and career development assistance for student-athletes.
Beyond its athletic prowess, Savannah State is recognized for its diverse student body, rich culture, and picturesque campus setting. The university offers over 30 undergraduate programs across the liberal arts, sciences, and professional fields, with a particular strength in business, computer science, and engineering.
Louisiana Tech University
Situated in the heart of north Louisiana, Louisiana Tech University has quietly emerged as a powerhouse in collegiate bowling. The Bulldogs’ women’s team has won 2 national championships in the last 3 years, while the men’s squad has also consistently finished in the top 10.
Louisiana Tech offers generous bowling scholarships, with full rides available for top recruits. The university also provides outstanding academic support, including specialized tutoring, mentoring, and career development services for student-athletes.
In addition to its athletic success, Louisiana Tech is recognized for its rigorous academic programs in fields like engineering, computer science, and business. The university boasts a vibrant campus life, with over 200 student organizations, intramural sports, and a thriving Greek community.
Tips for Securing a Bowling Scholarship
Earning a college bowling scholarship requires a significant investment of time, effort, and dedication. Here are some key tips to help high school bowlers maximize their chances of securing this coveted award:
- Start the recruitment process early – The competition for bowling scholarships can be fierce, so it’s important to get on college coaches’ radars as early as possible. Begin reaching out to programs of interest during your sophomore or junior year of high school. Provide coaches with your tournament results, average scores, and any other relevant information about your bowling experience and aspirations.
- Maintain a strong academic record – College bowling programs are looking for student-athletes who can excel both on the lanes and in the classroom. Maintain a high GPA (typically 3.0 or above) and achieve strong scores on the SAT or ACT. Many programs also require minimum test scores for scholarship consideration.
- Develop a standout bowling resume – To earn a scholarship, you’ll need to demonstrate an exceptional level of bowling skill and competitive experience. Participate in high-profile youth and junior tournaments, and strive to achieve top finishes. Consider joining a traveling/club bowling team to gain additional exposure.
- Connect with college coaches – Building personal relationships with college bowling coaches is crucial. Attend prospect camps and clinics hosted by your target schools, and make efforts to meet the coaching staff in person. Proactively reach out to express your interest and provide updates on your academic and athletic accomplishments.
- Highlight your character and leadership – College programs don’t just look for elite bowling talent – they also want student-athletes who will be positive contributors to the team culture. Emphasize your leadership experience, sportsmanship, and commitment to personal growth and development.
- Apply for external scholarships – In addition to institutional bowling scholarships, look for external scholarship opportunities through organizations like the USBC, NCBCA, and local/regional bowling associations. These can provide additional funding to complement any awards from your college of choice.
Conclusion
As bowling continues to grow in popularity as a competitive college sport, the opportunities for aspiring student-athletes to earn scholarships have never been greater.
From powerhouse programs at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln to rising contenders like Wichita State and McKendree University, there are numerous schools across the country offering generous awards to top-tier bowling recruits.
For high school bowlers looking to take their game to the next level, securing a college bowling scholarship can be life-changing. Not only does it provide significant financial relief, but it also opens the door to exceptional athletic development, academic support, and unique experiences as part of a varsity bowling team.
By understanding the landscape of collegiate bowling scholarships, honing your skills on the lanes, and proactively engaging with college coaches, you can maximize your chances of earning this coveted award.
With dedication, determination, and a little bit of luck, the path to affordable higher education through a bowling scholarship could be within your reach.
